Two hundred and seventy-one students from the Australia Pacific Training Coalition in Fiji graduated with qualifications in 17 technical and vocational courses this week.
Among them was 53-year-old Varanisese Vuibau of Naila Village in Bau, Tailevu.
She was awarded an internationally recognised Australian qualification – Certificate III on Individual Support (Ageing, Home and Community).
The former Blue Lagoon Cruises housekeeping attendant said she was awaiting medical clearance to travel to Australia and work as a caregiver in Canberra on a four-year contract. “Attending APTC is a life-changing experience,” Ms Vuibau said.
“Even though we come from different social backgrounds, once we are at APTC, it feels like we are part of a family.
“The teachers are good because for someone like myself, it has been a while then I’m back at school.
“Our teachers taught us like we were entry-level students and that helped us learn.”
Ms Vuibau and her family recently moved to her husband’s village in Mokani, Bau, Tailevu, from Lautoka and she hopes to build a home from the money she earns while working in Australia.
“My advice to those who also wish to take up courses at APTC is not to be laid back and apply for a scholarship as this is also a pathway to go overseas.”
Australian High Commission Chargé d’affaires Stuart Watts told the graduates that higher education opened doors to new and exciting opportunities.
“I’m pleased that Australia through APTC has now provided more than 5900 Fijians with the necessary skills to realise this opportunity,” he said.
“You join over 18,000 alumnae that hold internationally recognised Australian qualifications through training provided by APTC.
“It is my hope when you leave here today you will endeavour to use your newfound knowledge and skills to make lasting and positive impacts not only here in Fiji but in communities and the broader region.”
