A dozen students graduated with certificates after completing a short course in plumbing training delivered by the Australia Pacific Technical Coalition (A.P.T.C).

The ceremony was hosted by the Samoa Independent Water Scheme Association (S.I.W.S.A) on Monday at the A.P.T.C campus.

The course focused on drainage and sanitation systems which was completed by 11 men and 1 female.

In her keynote address on Monday, the Australian High Commissioner to Samoa Emily Luck congratulated the participants of the course.

"I commend you for your commitment and dedication in upskilling yourselves and for your efforts in ensuring your technical skills and expertise are enhanced for the benefit of your respective communities," Ms. Luck said.

"I would also like to acknowledge the Independent Water Scheme Association for their work in advocacy and capacity building for the rural communities."

She commended the partnership between A.P.T.C and I.W.S.A and the Samoan village water committees to deliver the training. 

"The partnership is building resilience in rural areas and enhancing the skillsets of the people providing this essential service," she said.

“Clean water and sanitation for all is goal six of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals and is vital to the health of every human being. It is also a key component of Samoa’s agricultural sector and for the tourism industry.

“The Australian Government will continue working closely with AP.T.C. to ensure that training programs meet community, industry and national needs."

The High Commissioner was also pleased to see women taking up the training opportunities.

“I encourage the certificate recipients to use your newfound skill sets to contribute to the development of independent water schemes in Samoa for the provision of clean, safe, and affordable water at all times, and to seek out further opportunities for capacity building," she said.

“I congratulate you all for your hard work and diligence in completing your training. We look forward to seeing the invaluable contributions you all will undoubtedly make in your various communities and we wish you well in your future endeavors."

The President of the I.W.S.A Sulutumu Taiatu Milo stated in his address that he is thankful for the support of the Australian Government.

“To the graduates, please do not think what you have learned here at A.P.T.C is all that you need to know. Out there in the communities you will find new challenges, you will find new problems, and new headaches," he said.

This is why I need to advise you my dear friends, you have to believe in lifelong learning.

"I trust that you and your communities have now looked upon your good selves with your advanced plumbing skills to look after your community water systems.”

Sulutumu then encouraged the participants of the course to apply their plumbing knowledge and skills wherever needed.