Wednesday, 25 October 2023
Minister for Skills, TAFE, and Tertiary Education Steve Whan is congratulating a community college in the Riverina, during a visit to the region highlighting the NSW Government's commitment to training.
The Western Riverina Community College achieved a 100 per cent completion rate for its Adult and Community Education (ACE) program during the past financial year.
Funded under the NSW Government's Smart and Skilled program, the ACE program provides around 450 people each year with literacy, numeracy, and employment-enabling training.
The courses address foundation skills and cater to a variety of learners, including people experiencing unemployment, people with disabilities, Aboriginal learners and students from culturally diverse backgrounds.
The college plays a pivotal role in delivering training across Griffith, Leeton, Lake Cargelligo, Narrandera, Barellan, Yenda, Yanco, Hillston, Lake Wyangan.
Minister Whan is also visiting major Griffith employer A&G Engineering, which is a key player in Australian manufacturing and actively involved in nurturing future talent.
The organisation employs five apprentices who are undertaking government-funded, fee-free apprenticeships in either a Certificate III in Engineering Fabrication Trade or a Certificate III in Engineering Mechanical Trade.
Minister for Skills, TAFE and Tertiary Education Steve Whan said:
"Education is the cornerstone of a thriving society, and my visit to Griffith reaffirms my commitment to promoting excellence in skills and development.
"A&G engineering and the Western Riverina Community College are shining examples of organisations driving positive change for the Riverina community.
"A&G Engineering's dedication to investment in apprenticeship programs aligns with our vision for a skilled and competitive workforce, essential for the future prosperity of the Australian manufacturing sector.
"Education is the pathway to opportunity, and the ACE program at the Western Riverina Community College is making a real difference.
"By addressing foundation skills and health training needs, the College is empowering learners from diverse backgrounds, including those with disability and Aboriginal communities."
