Training as a tradesperson can be an incredible journey, offering skills that are in high demand. If you’re a Papua New Guinean aspiring to become a professional in trades, the Australia Pacific Training Coalition (APTC) offers scholarships through the APTC Bursary Awards that could help you achieve your goals.
APTC Bursary Awards support Pacific Islanders and Timorese
The APTC Bursary Awards support Pacific Islanders and Timorese by providing financial assistance to access education. The APTC bursary program may cover tuition fees, travel, accommodation, living costs, and medical insurance. It is managed with a focus on transparency, merit, access, and equity, prioritizing students from regional and remote areas, and ensuring gender and disability inclusion.
There are two levels of bursary awards:
1. Full Awards: These cover training at an APTC campus and bursary support for international travel and living costs, available to students studying outside their home country.
2. Partial Awards: These include training at an APTC campus and some bursary support for study-related costs. Usually available to students in Fiji, PNG, Samoa, Solomon Islands, and Vanuatu to train in their home country.
For more information, refer to the application resource link provided at the end of this article. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to apply for an APTC scholarship and train as a tradesperson in PNG.
Step 1: Check Eligibility
Before starting your application, make sure you meet the eligibility criteria. You must:
- Be at least 18 years old
- Be a citizen and resident of Papua New Guinea
- Meet the entry requirements for the chosen course
Step 2: Gather Required Documents
Collect all necessary documents, including:
- Proof of identity (e.g., passport or national ID)
- Residency documentation
- Relevant qualifications or certifications
Step 3: Choose Your Course
APTC offers a variety of vocational courses in fields such as:
- Carpentry: Certificate III in Carpentry
- Construction: Certificate II in Construction
- Plumbing: Certificate II in Plumbing Services
- Automotive: Certificate III in Light Vehicle Mechanical Technology
Step 4: Complete the Application Form
- You can fill out the APTC Application for Admission form online, by email, or by mail. Ensure you include all necessary details and documents.
Step 5: Submit Your Application
Click Apply Online to complete an online application form. First, you will need a valid email address to register for an account. You will also need continuous access to the Internet to complete the online application (but you can stop and save at any time).
For other application options, you can download and complete the PDF form on your computer (and email it to us) or print the PDF form and complete it by hand (and mail or deliver it to an APTC Country Office).
For online applications, click here. Note that you must have a valid email address to apply online.
Step 6: Assessments and Interviews
After submitting your application, APTC will contact you to arrange assessments for English Language, Literacy, and Numeracy (LLN), and a Vocational Knowledge Assessment (VKA). You may also need to attend an interview.
Step 7: Selection Process
The selection process considers factors such as your financial need, qualifications, and background. It’s merit-based, so ensure you present your best self.
Step 8: Notification of Acceptance
If selected, you’ll receive a Letter of Offer, which will detail the course dates, location, fees, and any financial assistance, including the scholarship.
Step 9: Attend Orientation
Attend the APTC orientation session to get important information for a successful start.
Step 10: Start Your Training
Begin your training at POMTECH. Some courses may require face-to-face attendance and practical work placements. The duration of APTC courses varies. For example, Certificate III in Hospitality typically takes 22 weeks of full-time study, including a one-week mid-semester break and three weeks of vocational placement.
By following these steps, you can apply for an APTC scholarship and embark on your journey to becoming a skilled tradesperson in PNG.
APTC Bursary Awards and application links
- Apply online
- PDF form – download
- Scholarship & APTC Bursary Awards
