Ceremony celebrates 125 achievers

More than 125 local graduates were recognised at a special ceremony hosted by CHB Mayor Alex Walker at the Civic Theatre in Waipukurau.

The graduation earlier this week saw the Eastern Institute of Technology (EIT), Central Hawke’s Bay District Council and the Mayors Taskforce for Jobs partner in a first combined event for the district.

The Mayors Taskforce for Jobs runs Industry Training Graduations to recognise the achievements of recent graduates and provide an opportunity for the trainees and apprentices to celebrate with their families, friends and employers.

Over 100 graduates of EIT certificate programmes were also recognised at the graduation in front of families, friends, tutors and EIT staff.

“We were delighted to help create a combined celebration for all the students to acknowledge their successes. Even with the power cut, the evening was a great event. It was certainly memorable to see the mass of cellphones providing light,” said Sandra Fleming, EIT Central Hawke’s Bay Learning Centre Coordinator.

“The graduation is a time for celebration as well an opportunity to say thank you to local employers for their ongoing commitment to youth and training,” said Walker. “We’re delighted to partner with EIT this year.”

A further 25 industry trainees and apprentices were also recognised at the ceremony for achieving their local qualifications. They graduated from the scheme that saw 12 local employers and five Industry Training Organisations (ITO) involved.