The graduation of 20 physical training instructors (PTI’s) from the Fiji Corrections Service after a gruelling five week training course is a historical event for the organisation says Supervisor Corporate Services Senior Superintendant of Corrections (SSupt) Salote Panapasa.
SSupt Panapasa who was chief guest at the event said this was in line with the new vision for the organisation.
“This helps set in motion a new direction and intent for the organisation to have a fitter and healthier work force,’’ she said.
She added that this was also a show of their support to Government’s Wellness Programme through the Ministry of Health
These 20 graduates now return to their various institutions to run programs to help raise the fitness levels of all its personnel this year.
“This is to help support our intent to improve services all around this year, and we can only do that if we have a fitter and healthier team,’’ said SSupt Panapasa.
“This is historical for the FCS, it’s a first PTI course ever. All participants now return qualified to their respective Corrections Centres to lead the physical training activities there with the support of their OCs and supervisors,” she said.
“We would like to thank Commander of the Republic of Fiji Military Forces (RFMF) Rear Admiral Viliame Naupoto for releasing PTI from the camp to help them.
She also thanked sports lecturer Albert Miller, Strength and conditioning coach Henry Elder and Fiji Rugby Union’s fitness expert Nacanieli Cawanibuka for their help.
“Also in the pipeline is to get all these PTIs accredited with the World Rugby Level One Strength and Conditioning Certificate so they can be attached to rugby teams at provincial level.”
Former secondary school teacher, Corrections Officer Class B (COB) Ananaisa Vucago was the
Best Male participant was former PEMAC teacher and Corrections Officer Class B (COB) Ananaisa Vucago.
Women Corrections Officer Class B (WCOB) Asenaca Kanaivalu was named the best female participant.
Ms Kanaivalu is currently a corrections officer at the Lautoka Corrections Complex while Mr Vucago is based at the Naboro Complex.
The PTIs will be responsible for organising training programmes in their respective institutions to assist all officers and personnel achieve the required fitness level.
The course participants:
Asenaca Kanaivalu,
Apimeleki Drugu,
Samisoni Tuilawaki,
Waisale Vocea,
Saula Naicori,
Kusitina Matawalu,
Samisoni Vurai,
Mikaele Namusu,
Iowane Waqalevu,
Isikeli Tuira,
Sisilia Tinai,
Jone Tubunaruarua,
Avito Manoa,
Vilikesa Rokolekutu,
Vulaqoro Matavesi,
Alipate Matadigo,
Sikeli Kacikilagi,
Timoci Sinate,
Ananaisa Vucago
and Elwood Newtown.
