The UK College of Policing recently held its first Emerging Leaders Workshop tailored for officers from the Northern Division of the Fiji Police Force. This initiative aimed to enhance the leadership skills of Station Officers, Sergeants, and Corporals. The workshop concluded with remarks from Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Serupepeli Neiko, who serves as the Director of Training and Education. He highlighted the integral support from the UK in bolstering the leadership capabilities within the Fiji Police Force.
SSP Neiko reflected on his experiences from a four-week International Leadership Programme in London and underscored the necessity of adaptive leadership. He stated, “Leadership is not a one-size-fits-all approach. It’s about being fluid and applying the best practices according to the challenges at hand.”
During his address to the officers, he reiterated a critical message from Commissioner Rusiate Tudravu regarding the importance of adhering to foundational policing principles. He urged the attendees to recognize that their actions as supervisors mirror their leadership, emphasizing, “The responsibility you bear should guide your decisions, especially as you enjoy the privileges of your rank.”
SSP Neiko expressed optimism that the workshop would empower officers to deepen their understanding of leadership and management skills, thereby enabling them to make informed decisions that foster positive impacts on their teams. He concluded by stating, “Leadership is not about you; it’s about those you lead. How you treat your team reflects your leadership.”
The College of Policing’s ongoing training initiatives continue to focus on developing leadership skills across all levels of the Fiji Police Force, marking a significant step toward enhanced organizational effectiveness and community engagement.
Similar recent training programs by the UK College of Policing have already prepared middle supervisory officers in the Central and Western Divisions, showcasing a commitment to collaborative development in leadership across all ranks. This proactive effort not only seeks to uplift the Fiji Police Force but also contributes positively to the overall safety and security of communities.
This growing focus on leadership training is a hopeful sign for the future of policing in Fiji, as empowered leaders are better equipped to navigate challenges and lead their teams effectively.
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