Police Inspector Sisa Tuicoro Jr initially perceived the basic diplomacy training course he completed recently as merely another short program. However, the experience turned out to be far more impactful than he anticipated.
The 37-year-old inspector from Vuniwai in Saqani, with family connections to Qeleni on Taveuni, was among 16 graduates from a cohort of 28 who completed the program on September 21 at the Pacific Islands Forum Secretariat in Suva. This eight-month training course marks the United Nations Association of Fiji’s inaugural initiative aimed at fostering leadership through diplomacy.
“The program was quite rigorous, which is evident from the number of participants who graduated,” Inspector Tuicoro noted. He had to sacrifice time with his family and friends to engage in course activities and debate sessions, some of which extended into the early morning hours.
The program included students from various fields, such as medicine, law, and psychology. According to Inspector Tuicoro, it provided clarity, direction, and guidance essential for performing his duties effectively by helping to eliminate negative distractions.
Towards the end of the course, students were tasked with a series of submissions that could last from 8 p.m. until 3 a.m., involving extensive debates and presentations.
The training enhanced Inspector Tuicoro’s skills in negotiation, diplomatic affairs, and even table etiquette. He expressed that the experience offered a new perspective on his police work, particularly as he often interacts with dignitaries and ambassadors in a security capacity.
With 15 years of service in the police force, he acknowledged the importance of balancing security and diplomatic protocols. “The program equipped us with the necessary tools to manage both effectively,” he explained.
Inspector Tuicoro emphasized the crucial role of family support during this intensive program. Despite the challenges of managing late work hours and early classes, he credited his family’s encouragement as a fundamental element of his success. “I’ve seen the results of my hard work today, thanks to their support,” he concluded.