98 students graduate from APTC

While promoting labour mobility and filling the shortage of skilled workers in Fiji, 98 students from Australia Pacific Training Coalition have graduated with qualifications in very diverse and different outcomes.

The students graduated with certificates that include Carpentry, Commercial Cookery, Hospitality, Individual Support, Light Vehicle Mechanical Technology, Tourism, Wall and Floor Tiling, Leadership Management, Plumbing and Welding.

Out of the 45 women that graduated today, 16 women received their certificate for Light Vehicle Mechanical Technology.

CEO of the USP Pacific TAFE, Susan Sela says it's inspiring to witness more women taking up roles in trades that are contributing towards advancing gender equality across traditionally male dominated trades in Fiji.

Sela says APTC and USP Pacific TAFE recognise how critical it is to support more women access to better qualifications, so that they can also have the opportunity to upskill their capacities and gain better employment opportunities and contribute to Fiji's post COVID economic recovery.

She says many of the graduates have juggled a significant amount of work by managing their household and family responsibilities.

She adds the ceremony is a testament to the women's resilience and determination all over the years.

The CEO says the last few years have been incredibly challenging for vocational education and training delivery, but it has resulted in innovative ways in the students’ journey through remote learning and virtual graduations.