The Tuvalu Australia Partnership for Quality Education (TAPQE) is a testament to the shared aspirations of both nations towards achieving educational excellence amidst the challenges posed by climate change.
TAPQE is a key educational initiative between the Governments of Tuvalu and Australia, commencing in November 2022 as the successor to the Australian Support to Education in Tuvalu (ASET) Program. TAPQE represents a 10-year commitment by the Australian Government, designed to bolster the education sector’s performance in Tuvalu and reinforce Australia’s Pacific relationships towards mutual prosperity. The program, managed by Tetra Tech, aims to enhance literacy and numeracy outcomes, create equitable educational pathways and foster inclusive, efficient governance within the education system. Emphasising the development of Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) pathways, TAPQE addresses unique Tuvaluan educational challenges within a resource-limited setting, prioritising cultural appropriateness and governmental priorities in collaboration with various local stakeholders.
Our role and impact
Tetra Tech oversees TAPQE’s comprehensive implementation, building on the foundation laid by the ASET program. Our responsibilities encompass program management, stakeholder engagement, policy and procedure development, professional development initiatives and resource procurement to strengthen the Ministry of Education, Youth and Sports (MEYS). In 2023, we transitioned into early implementation, focusing on establishing robust program foundations. This included revising the TAPQE Investment Design Document (IDD) in response to DFAT’s request to ensure alignment with MEYS’s reform priorities. Our collaborative approach with MEYS and various stakeholders underpins the achievement of program outcomes, necessitating a coordinated, inclusive effort to realise the educational aspirations of Tuvalu.
TAPQE targets three end of program outcomes: improved literacy and numeracy for all children, enhanced quality and relevance of secondary education pathways and stronger, more inclusive MEYS personnel and systems. The program seeks to amplify the successes of ASET, integrating climate change considerations and ensuring inclusive education practices. Initial focuses include primary literacy reforms for years 5-8 and numeracy for years 1-4, addressing gaps identified in student learning outcomes. TAPQE also champions technical and vocational skills development, addressing barriers to access and creating more relevant vocational pathways. Through a comprehensive gender equity and social inclusion and climate strategy, the program incorporates inclusive education and climate change resilience, fostering a supportive learning environment for all students, including those with disabilities.
Our expert
Victoria Johnson
Victoria Johnson is director of education.
At a glance
Client
Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT)
Date
November 2022 – present
Location
Tuvalu