𝐂𝐎𝐌𝐌𝐈𝐒𝐒𝐈𝐎𝐍𝐄𝐑 𝐈𝐍𝐒𝐏𝐈𝐑𝐄𝐒 𝐅𝐔𝐓𝐔𝐑𝐄 𝐂𝐎𝐑𝐑𝐄𝐂𝐓𝐈𝐎𝐍 𝐎𝐅𝐅𝐈𝐂𝐄𝐑𝐒 𝐈𝐍 𝐓𝐀𝐋𝐀𝐍𝐎𝐀 𝐒𝐄𝐒𝐒𝐈𝐎𝐍

Naboro, Fiji – The Commissioner of the Fiji Corrections Service, Dr. Jalesi Nakarawa, conducted an informal Talanoa session with the Batch 01/2024 recruits this morning at the FCS Training Academy in Naboro, who are two weeks away from graduation after an intense 14 weeks of Basic Recruit Training. The session served as a valuable platform for reflection, motivation, and guidance as these future Corrections Officers prepare to embark on their professional journeys.

Dr. Nakarawa began the session by commending the recruits for their resilience and determination throughout the demanding training program in Naboro. He shared an essential principle from his recruit days, “Familiarity breeds contempt.” He underscored that “this golden rule has been a cornerstone of my career and serves as a critical reminder for you to uphold professional boundaries when interacting with inmates.” By maintaining these boundaries, recruits can ensure their safety and uphold the integrity of their roles as they transition into this vital profession.

During the session, the Commissioner spoke candidly about the realities of life as a Corrections Officer, emphasizing that the shift from theoretical learning to practical application can be challenging. “Often, we see behaviors that contradict what you’ve learned at the Training School,” he noted, urging recruits to adhere to their training principles in the field. He reinforced that their journey is just beginning, asserting, “Hard work starts after training, and that is when reality kicks in.”

Moreover, the Commissioner highlighted the importance of integrity in their duties, reminding recruits that prisoners often hold the upper hand, as they have nothing to lose. “You have everything to lose,” he stressed, encouraging them to carry out their responsibilities with honor and commitment. He also urged them to pursue further education to enhance their knowledge and confidence, emphasizing that the greatest asset of a Corrections Officer is their ability to communicate effectively. Towards the end of the session, the recruits were given the opportunity to ask questions, voice their concerns, and seek clarification on any doubts they had. This interactive segment allowed them to engage directly with the Commissioner, fostering an open environment for discussion.

Dr. Nakarawa also took a moment to acknowledge the four participants from His Majesty’s Prison in Tonga, who will be the first to graduate from the FCS and receive an accredited Certificate Level 5 in Corrections Management from Fiji National University (FNU). This milestone marks a significant achievement not only for the recruits but for the FCS as a whole. The Talanoa session also addressed several essential points for the recruits as they step into their roles, including:

1. The interests of the FCS must remain their top priority.

2. Loyalty to the office of The Commissioner is paramount.

3. Refraining from the use of social media for venting frustrations is crucial for maintaining professionalism.

Before concluding, the Commissioner wished the recruits all the best in their remaining two weeks of training, encouraging them to stay focused and dedicated as they prepare for their graduation.

The Fiji Corrections Service is steadfast in its commitment to ensuring that all personnel remain vigilant and recognize the profound value of their work. The FCS will continue to uphold the principles of integrity, professionalism, and unwavering dedication to service as we strive to enhance the safety and rehabilitation of those within our care.