Suzanne Edgecombe

The new graduates, including 53 women, join the 2500 Papua New Guineans who have graduated from APTC since its inception in 2007. The graduates received certificates in 17 different programs including carpentry, catering operations and early childhood education.

In her keynote address, Suzanne Edgecombe, Counsellor Education at the Australian High Commission, congratulated the graduates and encouraged them to apply what they have learned in serving their employers, families and communities.

The graduates attended a full day intensive workshop and networking event at the Stanley Hotel, hosted by the Australia Awards in Papua New Guinea. The workshop and networking event were designed to help prepare graduates for reintegration into their respective workplaces and communities upon returning from Australia.

The partnership between ExxonMobil and the Australian Government contributes to addressing rural workforce gaps in the frontline service delivery sector of health, with promotion focused on students living in rural and remote locations from PNG LNG Project areas.

The Australian High Commission’s Counsellor (Education), Suzanne Edgecombe, described the partnership as an excellent example of the private and public sector coming together to enhance economic and social progress.