Australia Announces Scholarships for Students with Disabilities at Bethesda

Australian High Commission staff were pleased to attend the graduation ceremony of seven outstanding students with disabilities who completed their vocational training at Bethesda Disability Training and Support Centre in 2024.

Australian High Commissioner Rod Hilton said, “I want to congratulate these outstanding students on successfully completing their training and on their dedication and perseverance.”

“It is great to see students that Australia is supporting in carpentry studies doing well, including Michael Fadai, who received his certificate at the graduation ceremony.”

During the graduation, Australia announced that 25 TVET Awards scholarships will be made available to students at Bethesda in 2025. The TVET Awards will provide for tuition costs as well as all meals and accommodation to enable these students to complete their studies.

“Australia’s granting of 25 TVET Awards scholarships to Bethesda students next year is a testament to our longstanding commitment to inclusive, quality training for all Solomon Islanders, enabling each individual to contribute to their community and the nation as a whole.” High Commissioner Hilton said.

In his keynote address, the Solomon Islands Prime Minister, Jeremiah Manele commended the seven graduates for their dedication and resilience in completing their studies.

“I want to applaud the commitments and sacrifices made not only for the graduating students but also for the school as a whole, parents and guidance, and the stakeholders supporting the Bethesda Training School.”

“I am excited about your achievement. Go out into the world and contribute towards building our beloved country. The knowledge and skills that you have acquired will transform yourself, your family, and the Solomon Islands as a country.” 

Thelma Awasi, the principal of the Bethesda Disabilities Training and Support Centre, expressed her pride in the graduates, highlighting their growth and accomplishments during the program.

Michael Fadai is one of the four students Australia supported directly to undertake carpentry training at Bethesda in 2024. Congratulations to Michael for successfully completing training and graduating. 

“These graduates have shown remarkable progress, not just in acquiring skills but also in building confidence and resilience. Our goal has always been to provide a supportive and inclusive environment where individuals with disabilities can thrive, and today’s ceremony celebrates that vision.”

As the graduates embark on the next phase of their journey, their achievements underscore the importance of inclusive education and skills training in fostering a more equitable and empowered society for all.

(Center, sitting) Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele and Lady Manele, Australian High Commission Counsellor Emily Flahive (Center, standing), and New Zealand High Commissioner Jonathan Schwass (Center, standing) attended the graduation. Australia, in partnership with New Zealand, has supported Bethesda DTSC in providing training and support for people living with disabilities.

Australia is proud to continue supporting inclusive education initiatives in the Solomon Islands, including through the 25 TVET Awards scholarships for students at Bethesda next year.

Media Release | AHC