August 2, 2024
Apia Samoa, Friday 2nd August 2024 – The Samoa Police, Prisons & Corrections Services (SPPCS) held a significant graduation ceremony earlier today at the Millenia Hotel, celebrating the achievements of 19 prisoners who successfully completed vocational training programs. The event was graced by the presence of several distinguished guests, including the Samoa Police Commissioner Auapa’au Logoitino Filipo, the Australian High Commissioner to Samoa, His Excellency Will Robinson, the APTC Country Director Lealiifano Laga’aia Easter Manila-Silipa, along with members of the SPPCS Executive & Senior Management, and other esteemed attendees.
The ceremony commenced with a spiritual homily and prayer, setting a reflective and solemn tone for the occasion. The cohort of graduates from Tanumalala Prison comprised 8 males and 11 females who completed training in the Food Handling Skill Set and Plumbing Services courses. These training programs were made possible through the collaborative efforts of SPPCS and the Australian Pacific Training Coalition (APTC).
In addition to the graduation, a display of arts and crafts created by the prisoners was featured, showcasing their creativity and talents developed during their time in prison. This display added a personal touch to the event, highlighting the diverse skills and potential of the inmates.
His Excellency, Will Robinson, highlighted the importance of second chances and the role of education in rehabilitation. He emphasized that the training provided by the APTC equips these individuals with valuable skills, facilitating their reintegration into society upon completion of their sentences.
Commissioner Auapa’au Logoitino Filipo expressed profound gratitude to the Australian Government for its continued partnership with SPPCS and APTC. He underscored the significance of such collaborations in enhancing the rehabilitation process and providing meaningful opportunities for inmates.
The ceremony was further enriched by the presence of the prisoners’ family members, who joined in celebrating the accomplishments of their loved ones. The event marked a milestone in the ongoing efforts to support the rehabilitation and reintegration of prisoners, underscoring the commitment of SPPCS and its partners to fostering positive change and development within the community.
ENDS