A total of 117 Tongan APTC graduates were celebrated at the Tanoa International Dateline Hotel, Nuku’alofa, on Tuesday, 30 January. The Australian Pacific Training Coalition (APTC) is an Australian Government Initiative designed to enhance vocational skills across the Pacific region.

The students completed different training, across 13 courses in different fields, including fashion design, plumbing, carpentry, light vehicle mechanical technology, and international skills training.

Of the 117 graduates, 70 were women, with seven excelling in male-dominated fields like plumbing and construction.

The Australian High Commissioner, HE Mr. Brek Batley, said that the effort Australia had put into building long-term skills through the APTC programs, would drive Tonga’s economy and social development.

“Skills and trades are the backbone of Tonga’s economy,” said Batley. “We look forward to seeing how each of these graduates will contribute to Tonga’s future.”

He also said that some the graduates were going to make an immediate positive impact in both the private and public sectors in Tonga.

Australia Pacific Training Coalition Programs

The APTC is Australia's largest investment in skills development in the Pacific and has supported the training of over 25,000 people across the region since 2007.

“APTC does a remarkable job around the region, collaborating with local industries to ensure training programs meet the needs of the local economy,” Batley said.

A total of 763 Tongans have graduated to date, from the program, which was implemented by the TAFE Queensland.

The APTC has also worked with the Tonga National Qualifications Authority to enhance local education standards and develop nationally recognized qualifications.