Over 50 students graduate from the A.P.T.C.

By Deidre Tautua-Fanene 26 September 2018, 12:00AM

More than 50 students graduated from 14 different programmes at the Australia Pacific Technical Coalition (A.P.T.C.) yesterday.

Held at the Tui Atua Tupua Tamasese Efi Building, the occasion was well attended by family, friends and special guests of the A.P.T.C.

The students graduated from light vehicle mechanical technology, plumbing, tourism, business, commercial cookery, education sport, engineering in fabrication trade, engineering in mechanical trade (diesel fitting), hospitality, wall and floor tiling and training an assessment.

Amongst the graduates 15 were police officers who received Certificate IV in training and assessment.

Deputy and Acting Prime Minister Fiame Naomi Mataafa congratulated the graduates.

“These graduates will join over 1,500 Samoan citizens who have trained at A.P.T.C. and close to 700 are women.”

“Your achievements are not only proud moments for yourself, but also for your loved ones and anyone who played a part in your journey to this day,” she told the graduates. 

She also acknowledged the contribution of the graduates’ families, guardians and employers.

“I also recognize with applaud the sacrifices and hard work shown by you in completing your studies.”

“Many of you have had to travel beyond Samoa to study at A.P.T.C. campuses in Fiji, Papua New Guinea and Vanuatu.”

“Despite the challenge you have all come out on top. I am also pleased to note that 32 women are graduating today and this includes the largest group of students to graduate at this ceremony.”

“Nineteen women who will receive their qualification or certificate III in education support,” she added. 

Soogapuai Tupai, who graduated with a Certificate III in Education Support, acknowledged the work of the A.P.T.C. during the address on behalf of his cohorts.

“We came here with so many questions in the beginning of a six months training but in the end the skills and knowledge that we gained will continue to improve changes in our work places.”

“While we are witnessing this special day we are surrounded by people who have inspired us throughout our lives, our friends, family members and our parents especially.”

“Thank you for your ingoing support to maintain great opportunities for our people here in Samoa as well as the pacific region,” he added.

He conveyed his peers’ sincere appreciation to both the Samoa and Australian governments for funding and providing the training through the A.P.T.C.

By Deidre Tautua-Fanene 26 September 2018, 12:00AM
Samoa Observer

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