Sixty-one apprentices graduated last Friday under the Ministry of Commerce Industry and Labour's Apprenticeship Program 2020. 

The Minister of Public Enterprise and M.C.I.L, Lautafi Selafi Purcell, congratulated the graduates for their hard work and determination under the program.

He said the program is one of the many Government initiatives established to develop the skills of Samoans and improve their productivity in the areas of apprenticeship despite the impact of the global pandemic.

"Despite Samoa going through the challenges of COVID-19 which have also affected the world, today’s (last Friday) graduation recognises the many initiatives by our Government," Lautafi said. "The apprenticeship program 2020, we have seen a number of records achieved through the partnership of M.C.I.L., National University of Samoa and the Samoa Qualifications Authority.

"The purpose of this partnership is to develop the apprenticeship program every year, it’s  important that young people are encouraged to join these programs.”

The Minister encouraged the youth to join these programs in order to utilise their skills and be of use to the economy of Samoa.

"It is important that we continue to encourage and improve apprenticeship studies to ensure that we are able to keep up with the global employment market," added Lautafi.

He went on to congratulate the graduating class of 2020 and wished them the best with their future.

"The graduating class of 2020 should always remember how important this program is for them to show excellence in the work that they do or when they want to set up their very own businesses," he said. "On behalf of the Government of Samoa, I congratulate you all and thank you for your determination to succeed under this program."

One of the graduates, Iuni Desmond Ah Sam, who spoke on behalf of the graduating class expressed their appreciation for the establishment of the program.

"I thank the Minister and the Government for this initiative that we’re able to benefit from,” Mr Ah Sam said in his speech. “I also thank the Ministry of Commerce Industry and Labour for conducting this program.

Mr Ah Sam then added that he has requested the Ministry to simplify their application processes The partnership between the Ministry and the N.U.S. was also acknowledged by Mr Ah Sam who then congratulated his fellow graduates. 

"Now all we ask from myself and the graduating class, to please simplify the procedure where we apply for our licenses and to have more employment opportunities under the Government where we are eligible to apply," he added. "Many thanks, to the N.U.S. lecturers as well for being patient with us and teaching us under this program. 

I also acknowledge our families for their support throughout this program – thank you for your prayers.

"To the graduating class, last year wasn't easy but we all did it, we succeeded, all the best as you go out and seek the best opportunities to provide for your families." 

Families and friends gathered at the N.U.S. Gymnasium last Friday to celebrate the achievements of the graduates. The apprenticeship program for 2020 started 6 May 2020 and ended 10 December 2020.