by Marie Kauna – EMTV Online, Port Moresby
The Garment and Textile industry in Papua New Guinea has been a sleeping industry within PNG and is gradually being tapped into.
In order to boost the growth of this sector, the Department of Trade, Commerce and Industry through the Small Medium Enterprise Corporation established the Women’s Textile Training Centre in Port Moresby.
Since 2012, women and men have gained skills in sewing, screen printing, designing, machine repair and various aspects of the trade.
Many of the women who graduated with Certificates I and II have ventured into small clothing businesses- sewing and selling clothes.
For them, the opportunity has given them hope and for many the ability to earn an income from the skills they have gained.
Today, the centre witnessed its 27th Textile and Garment Training Program Graduation. A total of 31 graduands, 3 of whom were men and 29 being women, graduated with Certificates I and II.
When asked about program Edna Nago Vagal, a certificate II graduand said, the training program had opened their minds and thoughts to the importance of such skills.
Phyllis Waranaka in commending the program, highlighted areas of improvement based on the students’ observation and experiences during their training period.
She urged the management, and the government to fully engage and facilitate sustainable ways to boost the garment and textile industry.
She also extended her gratitude to NCDC, the Department of Trade, Commerce and Industry, Small Medium Enterprise Corporation, and the management and trainers at the Women’s Textile Training Centre for their investment in the training program and its students.
