Prime Minister’s Opening Address at APTC graduation

March 27, 2019

255

Rev Faulalo Leti
HE Sara Moriarty
Graduates
Representatives of educational institutions &
Government ministries
Guests. Ladies & Gentlemen

It is my pleasant duty to address you all on this special occasion to mark the graduation of 56 men and women of Samoa’s workforce. Congratulations on your achievements and hard work in attaining an Australian qualification. I also acknowledge the support of your families and friends as well as employers and development partners.

Today, the graduates will receive qualifications in eleven different technical and vocational programs including International Skills Training and an award in the Key Management Skill set. You will add to 1600 Samoan nationals who have graduated since APTC opened its doors as a training institute in Samoa in 2007. An Australian qualification will place you in a position for employment both in Samoa and abroad.

Education is and will remain a priority for Samoa. The Ministry of Education Sports and Culture is a key partner in consultations and development of the TVET sector. The Government of Samoa recognises the central role of education and skills development in the socioeconomic development of the country. In this regard, I also acknowledge the Government of Australia as a key partner for skills development of Samoan nationals as well as other Pacific countries.

The Australia Pacific Training Coalition in its third stage will continue to deliver high quality training to international standards in new and innovative ways, in order to contribute to productive workforces and enhance prosperity. There will also be emphasis on boosting employment outcomes and creating skills for mobility in order to enhance access to regional and international labour market opportunities.

I commend the local partner institutions such as the Ministry of Education Sports & Culture, the National University of Samoa and the Samoa Qualifications Authority that have collaborated with APTC to deliver on quality TVET programs. I hasten to add our appreciation of the support of the Government of Australia towards the achievement of sustainable economic growth in Samoa. Similarly, at regional level, Australia has, through the Pacific Skills Partnership, developed initiatives to inform new and practical approaches to strengthen skills, jobs and growth to benefit Pacific communities.

Again, my congratulations are in order for all the graduates today. I extend to you all my best wishes in your future endeavours. Thank you APTC for the graduation ceremony today and for continuing partnerships for skills development in Samoa and the region.

Soifua.