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First PALM workers complete forklift training in Honiara, boosting skills for jobs in Australia and future careers.
The first cohort of PALM workers have completed forklift training course in preparation for working in Australia.
Six trainees were selected to participate in the course from the Labour Mobility Unit’s work ready pool for the PALM scheme.
The ongoing Australian-funded training program is being delivered in Honiara by local company Hastings Deering,and is designed to upskill workers prior to their departure.
Australian High Commissioner to Solomon Islands, His Excellency Rod Hilton, said the skills training was part of Australia’s support under the PALM scheme.
“This training not only directly benefits PALM scheme workers and increases their employment options in Australia, it also boosts their employment prospects when they return home,” High Commissioner Hilton said.
The training is a joint initiative of the Solomon Islands Labour Mobility Unit (LMU) and the Australian Government, and is the first of its kind under the regional PALM scheme program.
Delphia Nuatali Palmer was one of three females in the cohort of six trainees who were chosen based on specific criteria, including their English language and driving skills.
She said the training had been very informative and motivational and she hopes to inspire other women to take up future training opportunities.
“I am very privileged to participate in this forklift training and now feel confident to operate a forklift,” she said.
“As a woman with this skill, it gives me confidence as it will allow me to access more economic opportunities.”
Shelton, another new PALM scheme worker, also completed the training.
He is an experienced forklift driver and said that the training course had improved his skills and knowledge.
“I am grateful to Australia for funding this training and for the opportunity to upskill in forklift driving,” he said.
“I have over five years’ experience in operating a forklift, but this training has taught me new skills.”
“At first, I was hesitant to do it, but now that I have completed my training, I am glad I took on this challenge.”
The forklift training is recognised under the Australian standard of safety rules and regulations.
A total of 36 PALM scheme workers will each complete a week-long training course during the pilot forklift training program, which runs for six weeks.
SOURCE: AHC PRESS RELEASE
