Successful Graduation Ceremony Marks Milestone for Samoa Police, Prisons & Corrections Services

Apia Samoa, Monday 29th July 2024 – This morning, an official ceremony was held at the Interim Training Facility at Matautu to honor the graduates of the Samoa Police, Prisons & Corrections Services (SPPCS) short course programs. The event was attended by members of the SPPCS Executive, Ms. Claire McGeechan of the Australian High Commission, APTC Country Director Lealiifano Laga’aia Easter Manila-Silipa and staff, SPPCS members, and their families and friends.

The program celebrated the completion of various short courses, including Professional Women in Plumbing, Professional Women in Construction, Provide Services to Customers, Communicate & Work in Health or Community, Food Handling Skills, and WHS in Construction. The courses aimed to enhance the skills and capabilities of SPPCS members, with a strong focus on empowering female participants.

Reverend Salesulu Siaosi opened the ceremony with a prayer, setting a reflective and encouraging tone for the occasion. He shared inspiring words, emphasizing the importance of preparation and dedication in achieving success.

Ms. Claire McGeechan of the Australian High Commission delivered the opening remarks, offering words of encouragement to the graduates. She highlighted the significance of the partnership between the Australian Government and APTC in supporting the professional development of SPPCS members.

A total of forty-six SPPCS members graduated from the training programs, with the majority being female. This achievement is a testament to the increasing participation and success of women in traditionally male-dominated fields within the SPPCS.

In his closing remarks, Samoa Police Commissioner Auapa’au Logoitino Filipo expressed gratitude to the Australian Government for its ongoing partnership with APTC. He underscored the importance of these training programs in strengthening the SPPCS and acknowledged the remarkable accomplishments of the female graduates. The Commissioner congratulated all the participants, recognizing their hard work and dedication.

The ceremony concluded with a prayer by Reverend Salesulu, marking the end of a significant and inspiring event for the SPPCS community.