Fiji Corrections Service unveils Strategic Development Plan 2025–2029 and Annual Corporate Plan 2025–2026, charting a more digital, rehabilitation-focused path for the island nation’s correctional system
The launch of the Fiji Corrections Service (FCS) Strategic Development Plan 2025–2029 and the Annual Corporate Plan 2025–2026 was led by Acting Commissioner Sevuloni Naucukidi on Friday, August 22, 2025. The event underscored a renewed drive toward a stronger, more effective corrections framework that integrates technology, rehabilitation, and upgraded facilities.
Commissioner Naucukidi acknowledged the vital contributions of government partners, non-government organizations, faith-based groups, and community leaders who have accompanied the FCS from the outset. He stressed that lasting transformation in offender rehabilitation requires a united effort: “These stakeholders have walked with us since the beginning of this journey. They are critical partners in offender rehabilitation, because true transformation requires collective effort.”
A central pillar of the new strategy is digital innovation in inmate management, paired with enhanced rehabilitation tracking and improved infrastructure to support genuine reform. The guiding philosophy, “Through and Thorough Care,” reinforces the belief that every offender has the potential to change. Naucukidi described the launch as laying the foundation for a safer, more inclusive, and prosperous Fiji, adding that strong partnerships are essential to turning vision into lived reality.
The ceremony concluded with a benediction delivered by Reverend Soro, Divisional Superintendent of Wasewase o Suvavou, Methodist Church in Fiji. The plans are designed to align the FCS with international best practices, presenting a clear roadmap for a correctional system that is robust, relevant, and transformative.
Context and broader developments
The launch arrives amid a broader trend of reforms and capacity-building within Fiji’s correctional sector. Earlier updates have highlighted ongoing conversations about major proposals before the Cabinet, including the establishment of a drug detention center, the commercialization of prison industries, the creation of the Rakiraki Correctional Centre, a memorandum of understanding with HM Prison Tonga, and a realignment of non-parole periods. These initiatives reflect a concerted effort to modernize the system, strengthen governance, and expand rehabilitative opportunities.
Budget and staffing signals
In parallel with strategic planning, Fiji’s correctional reforms are being backed by strengthened funding and human resource initiatives. The National Budget recently increased FCS funding to $62.5 million for the upcoming year, enabling the addition of new positions and targeted improvements across security, intelligence, and rehabilitation programs within a revised framework. This funding supports a broader plan to align with the National Development Plan 2025–2029, emphasizing safety, security, and rehabilitative outcomes.
Efforts to uplift training, professionalism, and integrity
The FCS has emphasized international partnerships as a vehicle for advancing staff capabilities. Collaborations with countries such as New Zealand and Indonesia are positioned to bring contemporary global practices into training programs, elevating the professionalism of the corrections workforce as corrections become increasingly digital. In related discussions, senior leaders have pointed to the importance of maintaining professional boundaries between officers and inmates to safeguard safety and integrity, with guidance such as “familiarity breeds contempt” serving as an ongoing reminder of the standards required in daily operations.
A culture of continuous education and development
Overall, the service continues to push for ongoing education and skill enhancement for officers, reinforcing a rehabilitative approach within the correctional system. The establishment of planning and development units, alongside strengthened audit and compliance functions, signals a broader move toward accountability, transparency, and forward-looking governance.
What this means for Fiji
Together, these initiatives signal a hopeful trajectory for Fiji’s corrections landscape—one that seeks to balance safety with humane, restorative approaches. By embedding digital tools, expanding training and international collaboration, and pursuing targeted reforms and infrastructure upgrades, the FCS aims to deliver enhanced rehabilitation outcomes, greater staff morale, and stronger community safety.
Potential impact and next steps
– Implementation will depend on timely Cabinet feedback and steady execution of the strategic and corporate plans.
– Monitoring and evaluation will be crucial to measure rehabilitation progress, safety gains, and service quality.
– Continued collaboration with partners across government, civil society, and international bodies will help sustain momentum and adapt to emerging challenges.
Overall, the launch of the Strategic Development Plan and Annual Corporate Plan positions the Fiji Corrections Service at a pivotal juncture, reinforcing a commitment to modernization, professionalism, and transformative rehabilitation for the people of Fiji.
Leave a comment