Seventy-four staff members of the Samoa Fire and Emergency Services Authority (SFESA) are
poised to elevate their careers and personal growth after completing a series of accredited short
courses from the Australia Pacific Training Coalition (APTC).
The staff members, including 24 women, completed accredited short courses in Language,
Literacy and Numeracy (LLN); Work, Health and Safety in Construction; First Aid; Professional
Women in Plumbing; Professional Women in Construction; Communicate and Work in Health or
Community Services; and Provide Service to Customers.
Another highlight of the event was the presentation of certificates to participants who undertook
the Hazardous Materials (HAZMAT) accredited short course that was delivered by Australia’s
Fire Rescue Victoria (FRV) in collaboration with APTC and SFESA.
The HAZMAT training program tailored to Samoan standards and developed by FRV in
collaboration with SFESA, has already been submitted to the Samoa Qualifications Authority for
recognition. To meet SQA requirements, two awardees will also attend the full HAZMAT course
in Melbourne, Australia, to become qualified trainers to deliver SFESA-HAZMAT training in
Samoa.
In her opening address, Deputy Australian High Commissioner, Ms Claire McGeechan urged
the graduates to apply their new skills and knowledge in their workplace.
She expressed admiration for the 24 women, recognising their role in breaking gender barriers
in male-dominated industries.
“To all the awardees, your dedication and hard work are truly commendable,” she said.
“To the female graduates, I applaud your dedication and leadership. Your inspiration to women
who are considering joining the fire and emergency services sector is truly commendable. I
eagerly anticipate an increase in female participation in these sectors, which will greatly
contribute to a more inclusive society.
“The Samoan and Australian governments will continue to work in close collaboration to ensure
that education remains a key driver of Samoa’s economic prosperity, alleviating hardship for all,”
Ms McGeechan added.
In his concluding remarks, SFESA Commissioner, Tanuvasa Petone Mauga highlighted the
importance of APTC and FRV courses and training in enhancing SFESA’s skills development
efforts.
He emphasised that the knowledge gained would significantly enrich the Authority’s workforce.

“At SFESA, our dedication to staff development is unwavering. This commitment extends
beyond enhancing individual skills; it is about fortifying our organisation and enhancing the
services we render to our stakeholders and the general public,” he said.
Ms Maauga Urima, an award recipient who underwent training on Professional Women in
Construction, expressed her appreciation for the opportunity provided by APTC.
“This training has not only enhanced my skills in construction, but it has also opened my eyes to
the vast possibilities within the industry,” she said.
“I feel prepared and excited about my role within SFESA. The knowledge I have gained is
invaluable, and I can’t wait to apply it in real-world scenarios. I want to use my experience to
inspire and educate others, showing them that with hard work and dedication, anything is
possible,” Ms Urima added.
APTC and SFESA have been working in partnership to provide high-quality training programs
that enhance the skills and capabilities of SFESA staff. This partnership, established in July
2023, underscores a shared commitment to professional development, productivity, emergency
response, and service delivery in Samoa.