This year’s Industry Skills Competition at the Vanuatu Institute of Technology (VIT) Open Day saw increased female participation across various fields.
The Principal of VIT, Wade Evans, conveyed that these female learners demonstrated skill and enthusiasm in trades such as automotive engineering, construction, and electrical work.
“Their involvement reflects VIT’s ongoing efforts to promote gender inclusivity and support all learners in exploring career paths that contribute to Vanuatu’s workforce,” he said in a statement.
Principal Evans said VIT have celebrated a successful annual Open Days and Industry Skills Competition from November 6th to 8th, a three-day event devoted to skills development, community engagement, and hands-on learning.
He said this year’s event highlighted Vanuatu’s growing talent and innovation, drawing participants, industry partners, and community members’ eager to explore VIT’s vocational programs across its six departments: Mechanical & Automotive Engineering, Humanities and Science, Building & Civil Engineering, Business Management, Electrical and Technology, and Hospitality, Tourism, and Leisure.
The event was opened with a keynote address by Thomson Pakoa, representing the Minister of Education and Training. Pakoa mentioned the importance of partnerships in strengthening Vanuatu’s vocational education sector, commending VIT’s dedication to developing industry-relevant skills that support economic growth and resilience.
He noted the alignment of this event with VIT’s Vision of being an internationally recognized Institute of Higher Education and Training producing skilled graduates who contribute to a sustainable and resilient Vanuatu.
Pakoa encouraged the students to make the most of the learning and networking opportunities offered during Open Days.
A major highlight of the Industry Skills Competition was its alignment with the World Skills Australia competition, which VIT’s Management team attended in Queensland earlier this year, said Principal Evans.
