Australia, through the Australia Pacific Training Coalition (APTC), is supporting the advancement of technical and vocational education and training (TVET) in the Solomon Islands through the Annual Principals Conference.

Hosted in collaboration with the Solomon Islands Tertiary Education Skills Authority (SITESA), the gathering in Honiara provided a vital platform for sharing information between the TVET regulator and APTC-linked training providers on the requirements for both the education authorities and the training providers on registration and accreditation with SITESA.

Participants engaged in profound discussions that also encompassed structured qualification development and the evolving needs of both trainers and students in the Solomon Islands. They also seized the opportunity to connect with SITESA representatives to learn more about the ten recently accredited national qualifications.

Australian High Commissioner for Solomon Islands, His Excellency Rod Hilton said Australia was proud to support the annual conference under the Solomon Islands Australia Skills Partnership which brought together policy makers, regulators and practitioners in meaningful dialogue to build quality TVET provision in Solomon Islands.

At the conclusion of the conference, Abigail Chang, APTC Country Director for Solomon Islands and Kiribati, said the APTC Annual Principals Conference has exceeded their expectations and served as a testament to the shared commitment to educational excellence.

“We are confident that the knowledge and strategies shared during this event will greatly benefit our partners and the future of the Solomon Islands. APTC remains committed to the advancement of technical and vocational education and training in the Solomon Islands."

Ibi Drelly, Principal for Batuna Adventist Vocational School, said the workshop was comprehensive and rewarding for Rural Training Centres (RTCs).

“This is the future of our TVET sector, where effective regulation will support quality outputs. We all need to work together to progress this and I call upon our stakeholders for further dialogue and support activities to progress our registration aspirations.”

Linked to the Australian Government's efforts in empowering the Solomon Islands and Pacific region through education and skills development, this initiative aligns with the Solomon Islands Government's vision of providing and facilitating quality skills training that leads to a highly skilled and dynamic workforce.

The Conference brought together key stakeholders from the TVET sector, including Education Secretaries, Principals and trainers from various training providers.