Sixty-four recruits from the Fiji Corrections Service have officially graduated after successfully completing a demanding 14-week Basic Recruit Training program at the Corrections Academy in Naboro. This significant event marks an important milestone in the ongoing transformation of the Fiji Corrections Service.
During the graduation ceremony, Commissioner Dr. Jalesi Nakarawa emphasized the need for the new officers to uphold the core values of professionalism, integrity, and discipline as they embark on their careers. Dr. Nakarawa highlighted that professionalism should guide their interactions, especially regarding their conduct on social media, and stressed the importance of maintaining professional boundaries with inmates. He cautioned that “familiarity breeds contentment,” making it clear that protecting their safety and the integrity of their duties must always take precedence.
In addition to enforcing rules, Dr. Nakarawa noted that the graduates’ responsibilities also include shaping lives and facilitating rehabilitation. This graduation represents a step toward the long-term goal of establishing the Fiji Corrections Training Academy as a regional training facility, enhancing the capabilities of correctional staff across the Pacific.
Notably, four recruits from His Majesty’s Prison in Tonga graduated alongside their 60 Fijian counterparts, reinforcing the theme of regional collaboration within the corrections community. This collaboration is vital as the Fiji Corrections Service looks to engage with other countries, such as New Zealand and Indonesia, to address modern correctional challenges.
As the Fiji Corrections Service continues to adapt and innovate, these initiatives reflect a hopeful future for the corrections system in Fiji. Emphasizing training, professional integrity, and regional partnerships, there is an evident commitment to improving rehabilitation practices and ensuring the safety of both officers and the communities they serve.
In conclusion, the graduation of these new recruits not only represents their dedication but also symbolizes the ongoing evolution of the Fiji Corrections Service towards a more effective and supportive correctional environment.
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