Forty new Correctional Officers graduated last Friday and will become part of the Correction Service Solomon Islands work force after completing their 20 weeks of training.
The graduation was held at the Correctional Headquarter, Rove witnessed by family members, invited guests and officials from the CSSI.
Known as ‘Sir Peter Kenilorea Recruits 03/2019’, 26 of them are male and 14 women.
Speaking at the graduation ceremony Permanent Secretary of Ministry of Police, National Security and Correctional Services (MPNS&CS), Karen Qalokale said the graduation of 40 new Correctional Officers is significant as they prepare themselves for duties as Correctional Officers.
She congratulates the officers for successfully completing their 20 weeks of training which comprises of 27 units with 11 other essential areas of expertise.
“I wish to congratulate you for your hard work, perseverance and professionalism you have displayed during the 20 weeks of training.
“Your successful completion of 27 units together with 11 other essential areas of expertise from other stakeholders, affirms your capabilities and potentials as loyal correctional officers.” Qalokale said.
She said she is proud to see 14 female officers are graduating among the men.
“You have broken the barriers that our society thinks that CSSI is only for males.
You undoubtedly face many challenges and I believe that you can do the work with much enthusiasm, vigor and competency as your male colleagues,” she said.
Qalokale highlighted that Correctional Officers play an essential role in any correctional facility and the criminal justice system.
She said precisely correctional officers form the ‘foundation of today’s correctional institution.
“As correctional officers take heart, your primary role in looking after the inmates is essential to human services professions.
Accept the fact that you are good role models to the inmates, and you should be respectful and lead by examples to them, helping them to cope with the many challenges of life they encounter behind bars.
The hallmark of any profession in the commitment to a robust code of ethics and to task expertise,” Qalokale adds.
She encourages the new recruits to uphold their integrity and professionalism in executing their responsibilities as correctional officers.
“Your work ethics and goals must be guided by the vision and mission statements of CSSI.
Do not work in fear or doubts or laziness but build your competency and confidence in yourself and use your best discretion to deal with various circumstances.
“Take pride in wearing your uniform, which symbolizes the values and virtues of the Correctional Service Solomon Islands,” she said.
Qalokale also acknowledges the Australian Government through the High Commission to Solomon Islands Justice Program for its ongoing commitment and assistance towards the training of CSSI and the rehabilitation and reintegration programs.
She also thanked the prominent Faith Based Providers – Solomon Islands Christian Association (SICA) and Solomon Islands Full Gospel Association (SIFGA) for capacity development on spiritual rehabilitation programs for inmates as they established hope when they return to their communities, homes and to their families. Simply, they should prepare to reintegrate back to their communities.
She commends the CSSI Commissioner and his officers for their commitment towards their duties.
“Let us be vigilant to create a safe and professional working environment for our officers and those we are called to look after with strong determination, let us move our CSSI organization forward for the betterment of our country, Solomon Islands,” she said.
–CSSI
