Eleven inmates from the Naboro Minimum and Maximum Corrections Centres have reached a significant milestone after graduating with Class 2 Joinery Certifications from Fiji National University (FNU), marking a major step in rehabilitation and vocational training within Fiji’s corrections system.

The nationally recognised qualifications certify the graduates as skilled tradesmen, allowing them to seek employment in the joinery and construction sector across the country once they are released.

The achievement follows a two-year partnership between the Fiji Corrections Service (FCS) and FNU under a Memorandum of Understanding, with support from the Fiji Higher Education Commission (FHEC). The collaboration has enabled accredited tertiary education and trade training to be delivered within correctional facilities.

FCS Director of Training and Rehabilitation, Superintendent Isireli Dausiga, said the initiative reflects the organisation’s commitment to helping inmates build productive lives after serving their sentences.

“The FCS works daily to ensure inmates get a fair chance to make a living post-release,” Superintendent Dausiga said.

He also acknowledged the contributions of FNU and the Fiji Higher Education Commission for making accredited education accessible within correctional facilities and congratulated the graduates for their dedication and hard work.

FNU Trade Testing Officers Jope Seniloli and Bimal Singh confirmed that the certifications are fully recognised within the commercial sector, enabling graduates to pursue careers in Fiji’s joinery and construction industry.

Mr. Seniloli described the programme as a milestone for the university, saying it was the first time FNU had delivered accredited trade courses inside a correctional facility, while thanking the Fiji Corrections Service for its forward-thinking approach.

The collaboration also forms part of a broader staff development programme within the Fiji Corrections Service.

Over the past year, several FCS officers have completed professional qualifications through FNU, including a Certificate in Correctional Practice (Level 5) and an Advanced Diploma in Leadership and Management.

The Fiji Corrections Service says it will continue expanding accredited education and skills training opportunities for both its officers and inmates, reinforcing the objectives of the Yellow Ribbon Project and supporting successful rehabilitation and reintegration.