Apia, Samoa – Forty-four graduates were celebrated today at the Samoa Business Hub (SBH) for completing the Level II Certificate in Small Business Operations, an accredited program under the Samoa Qualifications Authority (SQA).
The six-month course focused on practical workplace skills, including Occupational Health and Safety, Customer Service, and Financial Management. Participants were assessed on tasks performed in their daily work environments.
SBH Chief Executive Officer, Unasa Atuaisaute Misipati, addressed the graduates at the ceremony, saying, “This program is designed to provide individuals with the skills to navigate challenges and seize opportunities in their workplaces and communities.”
Graduates included 25 participants supported by the UNDP Market for Change Women Vendors project, nine from the Green Climate Fund initiative, and ten SQA scholarship recipients. Employers, families, and communities joined the celebration, recognizing the graduates’ commitment to learning.
“We are immensely proud of each graduate who has demonstrated their ability to adapt, learn, and excel,” said SBH Chief Executive Officer, Unasa Atuaisaute Misipati.
“This program equips individuals with the tools to make meaningful contributions in their workplaces and communities, paving the way for a brighter future.”
One graduate described the program as “a bridge to better opportunities” and credited the hands-on approach for its relevance to her role in a local business.
The program, established in 2016, is delivered with the support of partners such as the Ministry of Police, Samoa Red Cross, and the Ministry of Commerce, Industry, and Labour. Financial backing from the Green Climate Fund and scholarships from the SQA have made it accessible to participants from diverse backgrounds.
Applications for the next intake, beginning January 2025, are now open. Interested individuals can contact SBH directly or visit their website for more information.
