June 28, 2024
Apia, Samoa – June 28, 2024 – The Samoa Police, Prisons & Corrections Services have successfully concluded a two-day Policy Development Training, conducted by the AGD Australia. The training, which began on Thursday, June 27, 2024, and concluded today, June 28, 2024, equipped selected members of the department with vital skills in policy development and implementation.
The course focused on enhancing the participants’ ability to use resources effectively and take action to meet objectives and solve problems. The training highlighted the importance of understanding the problem, assessing existing policies, and the legal framework, emphasizing the proactive role of the government and public servants in policy development.
Key topics covered included the necessity of record-keeping for accountability, the importance of evidence-based policy through research, and the need to uncover and understand stakeholders for effective policy implementation. Participants were taught project management and planning considerations, such as time frame, consultation, budget, resources, and risk management.
Additionally, the training addressed the creation and assessment of policy options, including information and education campaigns, law changes, providing services, grants, or subsidies, and applying taxes. The importance of outreach and communication with stakeholders and decision-makers was also underscored, along with strategies for inclusive and accessible consultations.
The training concluded with practical sessions on putting policy into practice, facing challenges, and evaluating whether the policy is producing the desired outcomes.
The Samoa Police, Prisons & Corrections Services extend their gratitude to AGD Australia for their support and expertise, and remain committed to enhancing their policy development capabilities for the betterment of Samoa.
ENDS