Revolutionizing Police Training: Fiji’s Bold New Approach

The Fiji Police Force has launched a thorough review of the curriculum at the Fiji Police Academy’s School of Community Policing. This initiative is a crucial part of the police training and development framework, aimed at enhancing the quality, consistency, and effectiveness of police services. Assistant Commissioner of Police Administration (ACP/A) Meli Sateki stated that this review is in line with Commissioner Rusiate Tudravu’s vision for improved community policing.

Sateki mentioned, “We are embarking on a revolutionary change in our training deliverables.” This approach is designed to prepare community police officers for their specific roles rather than simply reflecting their ranks, addressing concerns that police officers sometimes faced challenges when learning on the job, which could negatively impact service delivery.

The consultation process for the review was initiated at the Nakasi Police Station and included input from both senior and junior community policing officers, retired officers, and experts such as Dr. Eci Nabalarua, who developed the Duavata Community Policing model. There was a strong emphasis on collaboration and diverse perspectives, with Sateki expressing hope about the potential outcomes of this undertaking.

The revised curriculum is seen as an essential step toward equipping officers for future promotions and enhancing their marketability in various roles within the police force, ultimately improving their ability to serve the people of Fiji effectively.

This reform aligns with broader efforts to modernize the Fiji Police Force, echoing the goals outlined in the ‘Police Reset’ initiative, which emphasizes leadership development, operational efficiency, and community trust. The continued focus on these areas presents a positive outlook for fostering a safer and more collaborative environment between law enforcement and the community. These changes signal a commitment to not just serving but also engaging with the public, reinforcing the foundation of trust necessary for effective policing in Fiji.