Australia Pacific Training Coalition (APTC)

Manila-Silipa took over the role earlier this month, joining APTC from the Samoa Qualifications Authority (SQA) where she served as the Chief Executive Officer. She has a wealth of knowledge in Samoa’s Post School Education and Training, having spent 16 years with SQA.

Having worked extensively in the education sector, Manila-Silipa says she looks forward to improving educational and training opportunities for the people of Samoa and Tonga through her new role.

The virtual signing, which took place on 27 April 2021, further extends Australia’s support for vocational education in Tonga.

Under the partnership, APTC and the MET will work jointly to strengthen Tonga’s TVET systems, and contribute towards improved employment outcomes for Tongans by better aligning skills with labour market demands.

This partnership builds on previous collaboration between APTC and the MET through agreements with the Tonga Institute of Science and Technology and the Tonga Institute of Higher Education.