By Theckla Gunga – EM TV, Port Moresby
Twenty-three correctional service women are amongst the first batch of correctional officers, who passed out of Bomana Correctional Service Institute in Port Moresby today.
The total of 136 graduands is the second component of the first recruitment from 2014, and consists mainly of custodian officers.
The team of 136 graduands have successfully completed their first four months of theory training and are on their way to becoming probationary correctional officers.
The ceremony began with all five platoons marching into the parade ground led by Parade Commander, Chief Inspector, Raymond Gideon.
The parade then received the invited guests and the Guest of Honour and Correctional Service Minister Jim Simatab.
This is the first batch of service men and women to have undergone the revised Correctional Service training, which is implemented and supported by the Australian Government through the PNG-Australia Law and Justice Partnership.
They now have an additional five months of job training, and have already received their postings to various jails around the country.
Addressing the graduands, Correctional Service Commissioner, Michael Waipo, said choosing to become a correctional officer is a commitment not only to serve the force, but a commitment to serve both the government and the people of Papua New Guinea.
While wishing them success in their career, he highlighted that it is up to each officer to remain faithful or bow out of the force.
Minister Simatab described the PNG Correctional Service as an aging disciplinary force.
He said this passing out parade marks a crucial turning point for the organisation, and more experienced Correctional Service professionals are needed to impart their knowledge and skills into the new recruits joining the force.
Simatab demanded a modern and world best correctional service and said the government has recognised the importance of all disciplinary forces.
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