AUSTRALIA support to Solomon Islands has a strong focus on ensuring educational and employment opportunities are equally available for women in the country.
Speaking during the APTC graduation, Deputy High Commissioner of the Australian High Commission, Sallyanne Vincent said Australia has been supporting the Solomon Islands to recover and emerge stronger post-pandemic.
A key part of our partnership is to support the implementation of the Solomon Islands’ National Development Strategy (2016-2035) to help improve the social and economic livelihoods of all Solomon Islanders.
“A key strategy is to ensure all Solomon Islanders can access quality education and that the nation’s manpower needs are sustainably met.”
Through programs like APTC, the Australian Government is helping contribute towards a more skilled, inclusive and productive workforce for the Solomon Islands.
“We also want the best possible employment outcomes for graduates like you in the region.
“This is why APTC focuses on creating pathways from your newfound skills to employment so that you will have access to national labour markets and take advantage of opportunities abroad, such as those presented through the Pacific Australia Labour Mobility scheme,” Deputy High Commissioner said.
She said over the last nine months, Australia has supported 495 Solomon Islanders including 35 women who have undertaken the Introduction to Meatworks training with APTC and have been mobilised to work in Australia within the meat processing sector.
“We understand that such labour mobility opportunities help support many families and communities with a steady source of income back home.”
She said APTC plays a key role in delivering skills that meet the demands of industries and sectors that are vital for economic growth.
“The Australian Government will continue working with APTC to make sure that training meets employer needs for jobs now and in the future, as well as self-employment opportunities.
“We are also committed to increasing and enhancing TVET delivery in the Solomon Islands for graduates like you in the future,” she said.
By FOLLET JOHN
Solomon Star, Honiara
