MEDIA RELEASE
Released By:
Downer
The Australia-Pacific Technical College has opened its doors to the first students, fulfilling the Government's commitment to provide world-class vocational education and training in the Pacific.
The Prime Minister announced at the Pacific Islands Forum in October 2006 that the Australian Government would provide $150 million for the establishment and operation of the college.
The first student intake this month will offer training in tourism and hospitality to fill critical skill shortages and boost employment opportunities and economic growth in the region.
The college will boost essential skills in a range of vocations including automotive, construction, manufacturing and electrical trades, tourism and hospitality, health and community services.
The internationally recognised courses will be run at training centres in Vanuatu, Samoa, Fiji and Papua New Guinea.
From 2008 scholarships will be available to enable students, especially those from smaller island states, to participate.
Dr Peter Shepherd has been appointed chief executive officer of the College and brings extensive international experience in vocational and technical training to the job.
Training contracts worth $100 million have been awarded to Queensland's Sunshine Coast Institute of TAFE and Box Hill Institute in Victoria.
The College will work with Pacific Island governments, education and business leaders to ensure that graduates are appropriately skilled to meet employment needs in the region.
Further information on the Australia-Pacific Technical College is available at www.aptc.edu.au
Media contacts:
Malcolm Cole (Minister's Office) 02 6277 7500
AusAID Public Affairs 0417 680 590