Opening of East Perth advanced technology TAFE centre

Western Australia's new advanced technology TAFE college in East Perth opens its doors for business today for the first time.

Education and Training Minister Kay Hallahan said the $19 million college would offer technological skills of world standard to WA job seekers.

The college would take enrolments today in its first courses - computer systems engineering and computer-based training.

Mrs Hallahan said the college - to be known as the Advanced Manufacturing Technologies Centre - was a key part of Premier Carmen Lawrence's plan to reshape the economy, 'Adding Value'.

"The centre will integrate education and training with the needs of industry to capitalise on opportunities to add value to the State's mineral, agricultural and other resource-based sectors," she said.

The Minister said students at the centre would get first-hand experience of state-of-the-art equipment, including process control and robotics facilities, micro-computers, hydraulics, radiography and digital laboratories.

An estimated 200 students were expected to enrol for the first semester.