The Public Service Commission, with the approval of the Prime Minister, has appointed Mr. Paula Cirikiyasawa as the new Permanent Secretary for Lands and Mineral Resources, starting on 30 September 2024.
Cirikiyasawa will replace Dr. Raijeli Taga, who is transitioning to a new position after four years of committed service in the same role.
With over twenty years of professional experience, Cirikiyasawa has held various senior positions in the Ministry of Commerce, Business Development and Investment, and the National Planning Office before joining the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in 2018. His work at UNDP has been focused on contributing to global development efforts.
Chairman Luke Rokovada expressed enthusiasm about welcoming Cirikiyasawa, highlighting his strong leadership skills, innovative mindset, and strategic vision as qualities that make him well-suited to lead the Ministry of Lands and Mineral Resources.
In his role as Permanent Secretary, Cirikiyasawa will be tasked with guiding the Ministry’s strategic direction and operations, emphasizing innovation, growth, and sustainability. He is eager to apply his expertise to foster ongoing development and success within the Ministry.
Cirikiyasawa holds a Master’s degree in International Relations and Diplomacy and a Bachelor’s degree in Economics and Political Science.
Meanwhile, Dr. Raijeli Taga will continue with the Ministry of Lands and Mineral Resources and is set to assume her new role in mid-October 2024. Chairman Rokovada acknowledged her significant contributions to the Ministry’s successes during her tenure.