𝐖𝐄 𝐌𝐔𝐒𝐓 𝐅𝐎𝐑𝐌 𝐓𝐇𝐀𝐓 𝐁𝐑𝐈𝐃𝐆𝐄 𝐅𝐎𝐑 𝐄𝐗-𝐎𝐅𝐅𝐄𝐍𝐃𝐄𝐑𝐒: 𝐇𝐨𝐧. 𝐆𝐚𝐯𝐨𝐤𝐚

“Reintegration is the bridge from incarceration back to community life, the phase where rehabilitation is tested. Reintegration must be structured and supportive, and employment is the single most important factor.”

This was the opening address by the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Tourism and Civil Aviation, Hon Viliame Gavoka at the Fiji Corrections Service Employment Expo.

“This Expo opens pathways to careers that will shape your future. It reflects the Fiji Corrections Service’s commitment to building a workforce that is strong, skilled, and forward-looking.

“This work aligns with our National Development Plan, because community safety, rehabilitation, and human development are foundations of national progress.

The first Employment Expo was held in Suva in 2018 under the leadership of former Commissioner Commander Francis Kean; it moved to Lautoka in 2019, returned to Suva in 2020, paused in 2021 due to Covid restrictions, and resumed in 2023.

Since 2018, 59 individuals under the care of the Fiji Corrections Service have secured employment directly through this initiative.

The Expo is part of Through Care, connecting qualified participants who meet early-release criteria with employers.

“It reflects a vital truth: corrections work does not end at the facility gate. Reintegration succeeds when families, communities, and employers stand together to ensure former inmates do not reoffend,’’ Hon Gavoka added.

Hon Gavoka shared to invited guests at the gathering that the FCS proudly shares one of the lowest recidivism rates in the world.

“Fiji now records one of the lowest rates in the world. Fiji’s recidivism rate has fallen dramatically—from nearly 50% before 2006 to 7.9% in 2009, and then to 1.06% by 2021.

After a slight rise during Covid, it now stands at an all-time low of 0.58%, representing just ten individuals in custody.

This progress marks a historic shift from high reoffending rates to one of the lowest globally.

This success reflects long-term community engagement and national support. Initiatives such as the Yellow Ribbon Project (launched in 2008), the Employment Expo, and community walks have strengthened understanding and trust.

He further urged Corporate partners to continue to play that decisive role and be a bridge back to society for ex-offenders by providing employment and stability.

“Work restores dignity, sustains families, and reduces risk. It strengthens national stability and we acknowledge the leadership of companies that stepped forward: Raiwaqa Bakery, Flow Valves, SNP, China Railway, Tanoa Group of Companies, Quality Print.

Hon Gavoka said that a small minority may still question the work done behind corrections walls; but the results speak clearly.

Acting Commissioner, Mr Naucukidi revealed that this year for the first time, the FCS have begun active engagement with stakeholders to get them familiarized with activities and needs in the FCS and how they can contribute.

“We aim to establish a nationwide employer network to support the reintegration of 431 inmates who are scheduled to be discharged in the coming year.”

“We are grateful to the companies who continue to return every year as they have seen the value of employing ex-offenders who are willing to make a life for themselves.”