The Australia Pacific Training Coalition (APTC) celebrated a major milestone this month, graduating 165 Vanuatu citizens with internationally recognised qualifications in a graduation ceremony held in Port Vila. This graduating cohort is a testament to APTC’s commitment to empowering the Vanuatu workforce, with a remarkable 94 graduates—over 57%—being women.
These graduates completed a diverse range of technical and vocational programs critical to Vanuatu’s economic and social development, including Carpentry, Tourism, International Skills Training, Leadership and Management, Skills for Work and Vocational Pathways, and Light Vehicle Mechanical Technology.
The ceremony also recognised 49 individuals who received Statements of Attainment for completing accredited short courses. These included 33 students in Education Support and an inspiring group of 16 men and women in the Resilient Roofing (Climate Change) short course.
In his keynote address, Vanuatu Institute of Technology Principal Wade Evans stated that the graduates’ accomplishments reflect “their commitment to contributing meaningfully to Vanuatu’s workforce development across various vital sectors.”
Mr Evans encouraged the new graduates to push beyond their comfort zones, which can lead to lifelong learning experiences.
“I strongly advise you to embrace discomfort, make difficult choices, and take proactive steps towards personal growth. This means making calls, meeting new people, being kind, facing anxiety, exercising, working harder, and defeating procrastination.
“Step out of your comfort zone to experience growth, resilience, confidence, success, and discover hidden talents. Recognise your potential, start dreaming big, and pursue long-ignored goals. By doing this, you will see positive changes and find opportunities along the way,” Mr Evans said.
Through the APTC, the Australian Government is proud to invest in Vanuatu’s skilled workforce and support TVET in the Pacific and Timor-Leste. Over the years, the APTC program has supported quality TVET delivery and improved employment outcomes for more than 6,000 Ni-Vanuatu nationals.
Acting Australian High Commissioner to Vanuatu, H.E Jon Philp, said women’s participation in non-traditional TVET courses, such as carpentry, engineering, and electrical, increases financial independence and empowerment.
“Successful women in these fields serve as role models, encouraging others and promoting gender equality in the workforce.
“Through its support to APTC, the Australian Government is committed to guaranteeing equal access to quality education and training opportunities for all individuals, irrespective of gender, disability, or social circumstances. This dedication is essential for fostering the sustainable development of Vanuatu,” H.E Jon Philp added.
When awarding the graduates with their qualifications, APTC Executive Director Nicki Baird encouraged the new graduates to continue to seek opportunities to develop their skills and expand their knowledge in their chosen fields.
The graduates will join a vast network of over 41,000 APTC alumni across the Pacific and Timor-Leste.
“I encourage you to stay connected through the APTC Vanuatu Alumni Chapter. It is not merely a network; it is a source of support, inspiration, and a platform to contribute to the continued success of our collective journey,” Ms Baird urged.
She also acknowledged APTC’s collaboration with its TVET partners and reiterated its commitment to supporting the delivery of quality, inclusive, and relevant vocational training in Vanuatu.