Australia-backed infrastructure projects are not only improving schools in rural Papua New Guinea but also helping young tradespeople gain hands-on industry experience and secure employment opportunities.

Ten final-year Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) students from Port Moresby Technical College are currently sharpening their practical skills at the construction site of new facilities at Vesulogo Primary School in Sogeri, Central Province.

The students joined the construction team as part of their compulsory apprenticeship program under a project funded through Australia’s Kokoda Initiative Partnership under the Papua New Guinea-Australia Partnership.

Local construction company LNM Building and Construction engaged the students for a three-week placement at the school site, giving them the opportunity to apply classroom learning in a real working environment.

Building Manager Michaeline Pondros said the company was committed to helping students complete the practical requirements needed for graduation.

“They have specific hours to complete before graduation, and on-the-job training is where they demonstrate how they apply what they learn.”

The construction project has also contributed to the local economy through the engagement of local contractors, suppliers, and laborers while creating valuable opportunities for youths entering the workforce.

Among the apprentices were Ms. Dambe Dulunga and Ms. Ovin Waima, the only two female students on the site, specializing in carpentry and plumbing respectively.

Ms. Dulunga said working in a male-dominated trade had motivated her to push harder and prove herself in the field.

“This trade is dominated by men, but that has not discouraged me from working with them.”

Meanwhile, Ms. Waima said the experience exposed her to a wide range of construction tasks and strengthened her confidence.

“I helped with mixing concrete, raising cement posts, and I even did some welding. I enjoyed working with the team and I’ve really gained a lot of experience.”

Following the successful completion of the placement, all 10 students were offered employment by the company as trade assistants.

Australia’s support for TVET and workforce development aligns with PNG’s Vision 2050 and reflects commitments under the Joint Statement of Intent on TVET renewed in 2024, recognizing the importance of skills training and employment in driving national development.