BY CHRIS ALEX
THE achievements of 154 Solomon Islanders who have obtained Australian-standard and internationally recognised certificates were honoured by Minister of Education Hon. Tozen Leokana in a keynote speech given yesterday at the Australian Pacific Training Coalition (APTC) graduation event.
The ceremony marked a significant milestone for Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) in the country, with a strong emphasis on gender equity and the development of essential skills for sustainable growth.
Minister Leokana highlighted the critical role of the APTC program in enhancing the country’s human resource capacity, particularly through its ongoing partnership with the Australian government. He expressed gratitude for the financial support provided by Australia, which has been instrumental in training over 600 Solomon Islanders since 2020.
“Without this much-needed funding, it would not have been possible to accelerate human resource development in our country,” Leokana stated, acknowledging the collaboration between the Solomon Islands and Australia in supporting 10 training centers across the country. These centers offer courses in various fields, including agribusiness, automotive, tourism, hospitality, carpentry, and construction.
A standout moment in Minister Leokana’s address was his commendation of the 85 women who graduated from the program, 18 of whom excelled in traditionally male-dominated fields such as construction and carpentry. He emphasized the importance of their participation as a source of inspiration for other girls and women in the Solomon Islands to pursue careers in non-traditional sectors.
“The commitment and resilience demonstrated by these women will inspire others to take up trade courses and break barriers in TVET, especially in areas normally dominated by men,” said Leokana.
The Minister also highlighted the broader impact of TVET on the nation’s sustainable development.
He noted that TVET programs are crucial for empowering individuals with practical skills that drive economic growth, foster entrepreneurship, and enhance employability among the youth.
“TVET is a viable career path for young people, not a second option,” he said, reinforcing the program’s focus on gender equity, disability, and social inclusion.
The APTC’s partnership with the Solomon Islands Tertiary Education and Skills Authority (SITESA) has led to significant advancements in the country’s TVET sector, including the development of regulatory frameworks and quality standards. Additionally, the training of 70 rural trainers and the provision of 944 scholarships have further strengthened the delivery of quality TVET education.
As the graduates celebrated their achievements with family and friends, Minister Leokana concluded his address by reaffirming the Solomon Islands government’s commitment to expanding education and TVET opportunities for all citizens.
“Today is your great day,” he told the graduates. “It’s a day to celebrate your hard work and dedication, and to look forward to a bright future where your skills will contribute to the growth and prosperity of our country.”
