By Julie Badui Owa – EMTV News, Lae
489 students studying various skills training under the Ginigoada Foundation graduated with certificates today (June 14) in Lae, Morobe Province. The students were trained in basic accounting, computing, sewing and mechanical engineering. This is the second stage of the Ginigoada Foundation Program.
The students completed this program within three months. Most of them were trained in the areas of driving, tourism and hospitality and Mechanical Engineering. The program is funded by the Australian Government. The program started in Port Moresby fourteen years ago, and was introduced in Lae in 2014. Since then, more than 30,000 men and women graduated under this program.
Among the graduates at today’s graduation, 13 are participants who are currently attached with a company in Lae, for their job training.
Program Coordinator for Lae, Don Savi says despite positive feedback seen from the program, there has been no support from the provincial government and the District Development Authorities for almost 4 years. Savi is calling on the National and Provincial Government to help the program which is currently funded by the Australian Government. Mr. Savi thanked the Australian Government for their support in funding the program, and also the trainers who have stepped in to help train the students.
