The Australia-Pacific Training Coalition (APTC) held its 22nd graduation on Wednesday 5 December at its campus at Idubada – Port Moresby.
148 students, including 44 females, graduated with qualifications across 17 different programs.
Australia’s Deputy High Commissioner Caitlin Wilson who was the guest speaker at the graduation congratulated the students for pursuing the opportunity to learn and upskill themselves and also commended those that played a role in educating the students.
“Graduations are exciting events as they are celebrations of hard work and sacrifice and we are all here to recognise and celebrate your achievements,” she said.
Ms Wilson also made special reference to the female graduands, reminding all present at the ceremony, of the importance of equal participation at all levels in a society,
She highlighted the efforts by APTC in providing inclusive trainings.
“It is pleasing to see 44 females graduating in this cohort. Over the years, APTC has seen female students graduating in traditionally male dominated areas such as carpentry and the electrical trades and this reflects women empowerment,” she said.
“By participating in such jobs, women are bringing economic benefits to their families and contributing to the nation’s productivity. This is why the PNG and Australian Governments ensure their activities together must always emphasise equality and women’s empowerment,” she said.
APTC is an Australian Government program that provides Australian-standard technical, vocational, leadership and management skills and qualifications through a wide range of vocations for skilled workers in PNG and across the Pacific.
“APTC is delivering skills and training that is aligned to labour market needs for a wide range of vocational careers. Over 90 per cent of employers have reported the significant contribution to improved productivity that APTC graduates have made.”
Ms Wilson said adding that Australia will continue to work with the PNG Government to maintain a substantial investment in the country.
APTC has been actively raising standards of vocational education with its partner Institution, Port Moresby Technical College in the country and recently launched its National Automotive Training Centre.