The Vanuatu Institute of Technology (VIT) achieved a groundbreaking milestone last week with the successful completion of its Certificate I in Electrical Engineering (Electro-Technology) program at Ranwadi Churches of Christ College on Pentecost.

The training, held under the Vanuatu Green Energy Transformation Initiative (VGETI) — a partnership between the Government of Vanuatu, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), and the Government of Japan — marks the first paperless and digitally delivered course ever conducted by VIT.

Despite the remote location’s limited access to electricity and internet, the course was entirely digital. No paper was used throughout the program — from lessons and learning materials to assessments and documentation. Each trainee was provided with a tablet device, giving them access to all course content in electronic form.

This achievement represents a major step toward modernizing technical and vocational education (TVET) delivery in Vanuatu and aligns with the government’s digital transformation and sustainability goals.

The training also supports national efforts to build local capacity for renewable energy and electrification in rural communities. Graduates will now move into work placements, applying their new skills to help install and maintain micro-grid electrical systems in communities supported by the Vanuatu Green Energy Transformation Project.

VIT also celebrated the participation of female trainees in the course, recognizing their role in advancing inclusive and sustainable development.

“This initiative not only equips youth with technical skills but also drives progress toward a cleaner, greener, and more sustainable energy future for Vanuatu,” a VIT representative said.

The Institute extended its gratitude to all partners — UNDP, the Government of Japan, the Ministry of Climate Change, the Department of Energy, and the Ranwadi community — for their continuous support.

This event marks the first of two closing ceremonies this week, with the Certificate II in Building Construction graduation taking place in Santo. The success of this program demonstrates how innovation and collaboration can make education more accessible, sustainable, and relevant to the nation’s future energy goals.

Photo supplied.