Breaking Barriers: Indo-Fijian Becomes First in Family to Graduate as Corrections Officer

Deepak Deo celebrated a remarkable milestone as he graduated among 63 recruits from the Fiji Corrections Service, marking a significant achievement as the first in his family to don the brown uniform of a Corrections Officer. At 34 years old, Deo stands out not only for his accomplishment but also as the only Indo-Fijian in his graduating cohort, which reflects the diverse representation in the service.

His journey to this moment involved overcoming various challenges, including financial constraints and language barriers. Deo, who hails from Wailevu in Labasa, underwent 14 weeks of rigorous training. He credits his success to the steadfast support from his parents and the camaraderie he found among his colleagues, which helped him improve his Fijian language skills.

Deo’s story serves as an inspiration to the youth in his community. He encourages them to pursue ambitious aspirations and consider careers that contribute to building a safer, crime-free environment. He emphasized the importance of setting goals and striving for them, regardless of the challenges faced.

Among his fellow graduates was 19-year-old Fakaofo Tonga, representing His Majesty’s Prison in Tonga. He received the Best Physical Recruit Award and expressed gratitude for the enriching experience provided by the Tonga Correctional Services during their training in Fiji. Tonga acknowledged that the discipline and early mornings were all aimed at a meaningful purpose.

This graduation ceremony not only highlights individual achievements but also indicates a promising future for the Fiji Corrections Service. Recruits hailed from diverse regions including Tailevu, Naitasiri, Ra, and Ba, showcasing the community’s involvement and commitment to the Corrections Service.

As these new recruits step into their roles, their collective aspirations signal a hopeful transformation in the corrections landscape of Fiji, marked by professional development and a focus on rehabilitation. This event stands as a testament to collaboration and the potential for progress in the sector.