Sixteen Fiji Corrections Service (FCS) personnel graduated yesterday after a six-week intensive training course at the FCS Training Academy in Naboro.

The Corrections Officer Class A (COA)-Corrections Officer Class B (COB) Promotional course took the men and women through training in: Leadership, Legislation, International Obligations under the Mandela, Tokyo and Bangkok Rules, Logistics and Procurement Regulations, Administrative Policies, Rehabilitation Counselling Techniques which also included parade training, physical training, tracking and survival exercises.

Commissioner Commander Francis Kean said: “I know the course was very challenging and demanding mentally.

“However, the real challenge will begin when you return to your institutions where you are expected to become agents for change in implementing what you have learnt, here at the Academy.

“I congratulate you for your achievements today.”

Commander Kean reminded them that as a link to their subordinates and officers they needed to be grounded in knowledge to maintain standards within their respective correction centres and units.

Five of the graduates were also promoted.

Among them was 35-year-old Prabashni Ram who was promoted from the rank of COA to Temporary Principal Corrections Officer.

“This special achievement I owe to my family at home, as a woman I found this course very challenging. But I am happy it has helped me discover my own strengths and weaknesses.

TPCO Ram encouraged young women who wanted to join any disciplined force saying it’s all about attitude.”

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