The white sand and crystal blue waters of Vanuatu await a group of TAFE NSW Mount Druitt IT students who will be heading to Espiritu Santo for the opportunity of a lifetime to install a solar powered generation system and 10 low powered computers at a local school.

The project is an on-going partnership between TAFE NSW and Upper Blue Mountains Rotary Club who has been involved in the project for the past five years to install computers in under-privileged schools in Pacific Island countries. The TAFE NSW Mount Druitt students will be part of a group of 10 students travelling to Vanuatu departing on Saturday 29 June.

TAFE NSW Mount Druitt students will gain valuable practical experience that will help them with their studies and IT careers. As part of the project, the students will also teach computer skills to the staff and students in Vanuatu.

TAFE NSW Head Teacher of IT and Business, Colin Tyrrell said, “Most of the school students and some of the local teachers won’t have any experience using a computer before, and so it will be rewarding seeing their excitement when we first introduce them to the technology.”

“Every year I take the students to Vanuatu and without a doubt it’s always such an exciting, yet humbling experience for the TAFE NSW team. This year the students will be installing computers at Mwast Primary School. While we’re on the island we’ll also be servicing previous installations.”

Having access to computers extends the educational support for Vanuatu students and teachers. Each computer will be equipped with Microsoft Office and other educational software, which will help strengthen the students’ numeracy and literacy skills. Providing local students with access to computers and programs will enhance the future employability of the students.

The TAFE NSW IT students are funded by the Australian Government’s Endeavour Leadership Program (ELT) which provides $2,500 per student to offset airfare, accommodation and insurance.

The ELT[1] is the Australian Government's previous two-way mobility for short and long-term study, research and professional development with Australia's priority partner countries. The ELP is providing opportunities for established and emerging leaders to undertake a global mobility experience within their study, research or professional field.

To learn more about studying IT at TAFE NSW visit www.tafensw.edu.au or call 131 601. 

Media contact: Teresa Lane, TAFE NSW Media and Communications Business Partner 9796 5476, mobile 0412 773 887