APTC celebrates success of students

APTC celebrates success of students

More than 150 students were rewarded for their hard work after successfully graduating from the Australia-Pacific Technical College (APTC) in Suva today.

The graduating students completed their Australian qualifications in 16 different programs.

APTC is an innovative development project funded by the Australian Government, delivering Australian-standard skills and qualifications for a wide range of vocational careers for skilled workers across the Pacific.

Since its establishment in 2007, APTC has over 9500 graduates, of which, more than 2700 graduates are from Fiji.

In delivering his keynote address, Minister for Industry, Trade and Tourism, Honourable Faiyaz Koya told graduates to be active in their youth communities and share their ideas to inspire other young people and also help address modern day challenges.

“Your contributions will also help Government in ensuring that our policies and plans address issues that directly impact your lives and build a better and smarter Fiji,” he added.

Honourable Mr Koya encouraged graduates to step up and realise their potential. He highlighted some examples of APTC alumni from the region who had gone to make significant contributions towards improving the lives of their families and their communities.

“Share and utilise the knowledge you have accumulated to help develop yourselves, your families, your communities and your nation,” he said.

A total of 45 graduates were females including five women who graduated in trades programs. Females were also amongst those who received dual qualifications. Four women were awarded with Certificate III in Allied Health Assistance and Certificate III in Health Services Assistance and 13 with Certificate III in Home and Community Care and Certificate III in Aged Care.

This was the second APTC graduation ceremony to be hosted in Fiji this year. The first ceremony was held in Nadi where 59 students were awarded qualifications in 15 programs.

In her closing remarks, Counsellor Bilateral for Fiji and Tuvalu, Ms Christina Munzer encouraged graduates to utilise their skills and knowledge to create positive environments.

“Seize opportunities that will create positive changes in your life, in the welfare of your family that ultimately will enrich your community and your country,” said Ms Munzer.

The APTC Fiji campus has been actively involved in a number of activities. One such important activity has been in assisting with relief efforts in Fiji, after Cyclone Winston which hit the country earlier in February.

In addition to its campus in Fiji, APTC has campuses in Papua New Guinea, Samoa, Solomon Islands and Vanuatu.

ENDS

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