Since 1970, Kiribati Institute of Technology (KIT), formerly known as Tarawa Technical Institute (TTI), has provided quality Technical and Vocational Education Training (TVET) to the people of Kiribati. The KIT celebratory logo and theme reflects the role the institute plays in supporting the youth of Kiribati, ‘building futures from experience’ over the past 50 years.

The name of the institute changed in 2006 when it moved from the Ministry of Education to the Ministry of Employment and Human Resource and has graduated over 5,000 students since then.

In her speech, the Minister of Employment and Human Resource, Taabeta Teakai, mentioned how grateful she was to be part of KIT and to witness its growth into a marvellous Institute;

The ceremony started with a prayer by Fr. Koru Tiito and a warm welcome was then rendered by Officer in Charge (OIC), Mrs. Bannau Tiiata on behalf of the KIT Director and Kiribati Facility Team Leader, Mr. Peter Langbien, who was unable to attend due to national and international border closures.

His Excellency, President Taneti Maamau, was the guest of honour and had the opportunity to reveal the monument during the celebration at the KIT Maneaba in Betio. Australian High Commissioner to Kiribati, Mr. Bruce Cowled, Officials from the New Zealand Embassy and Chinese Embassy, Head of Government Ministries, NGOs and Leaders of Churches were present to witness the day.

It was a very proud moment for KIT staff, lecturers, students and alumnae, and a very big success for KIT. During the ceremony, current KIT students (from different schools) and KIT alumnae shared why KIT is so unique and how it became a doorway to a world of opportunity through education and employment pathways.

KIT has grown into a leading TVET institute, particularly in the area of inclusive skills training, ensuring support for young mothers to continue study, providing access for students with disability to undertake mainstream courses, engaging disadvantaged youth in a Bridging program and delivering Outer Island courses. These initiatives have been achieved with the support of local government and non-government organisations, multi-lateral partners, and the Australian Government’s Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade.