Two young Tongan students are continuing their training at the Australia Pacific Training Coalition (APTC) in Samoa, despite the COVID-19 pandemic.

Kulufeinga Siamau Manu (19) of Havelu is training for a Certificate III in Commercial Cookery.

While, Teolosia Falemaka (22) from Fasi trains for a Certificate III in Plumbing and dreams of owning a plumbing business one day.

Kulufeinga who was working at his family-owned Mum’s Café in Nuku'alofa was motivated to sign up for the training to boost his efficiency. He also wants to give back to his family business.

“The skill sets that we are taught here are relevant and valuable. I know APTC will help me reach my goals of helping out with my family’s café."

At the same time, Teolosia hopes to upgrade his qualifications to complement Tonga’s developing plumbing industry.

“I would like to be the youngest person to start a successful plumbing business in Tonga. I want to use my skills to create a reputation back home of quality in the plumbing industry.”

Prior to studying at APTC, Teolosia completed his plumbing apprenticeship at the Tonga Institute of Science and Technology. 

“My teacher, who trained at APTC, always pushed and challenged us to learn more so I took that advice and put that as my goal. I want to be the best plumber and I believe that APTC is a great start,” he said.

While, their training in Samoa was put on hold for some weeks in compliance with Samoa’s National State of Emergency due to the COVID-19 pandemic, students appreciated the measures taken at the time.

Teolosia said it has been a tremendously difficult and worrying time for students. 

“I had many goals for this semester, which were unfortunately interrupted. However, with the campus re-opening earlier in May, we are again determined to do our best and accomplish what we set out to achieve,” he said.

APTC said efforts continues to ensure the health and safety of students, while supporting their training continues and they could return to their home countries wherever possible.