UN CERTIFIED INSTRUCTOR DEVELOPMENT COURSE
Twenty-four participants from nine United Nations member countries today started their Architecture Programme Certified Instructor Development Course for Asia Pacific Region.
Participants are from law enforcement organizations from Sri Lanka, Nepal, Mongolia, Samoa, Solomon Islands, Vanuatu, Kiribati, Tuvalu, Australia, and Fiji.
The training is facilitated by the United Nations(UN) Department of Peace Operations, Police Division and Integrated Training Services and is funded by the U.S. Embassy Suva.
The course Director Amod Gurung welcomed the participants and said they looked forward to the rest of the program which will end on the 14th of July.
Mr Gurung said the training intends to build a pool of trainers who they shall call upon for respective activities across the globe.
The training aims at empowering participants to conduct similar training in their own countries for the United Nations.
“The role of UN Police today has become pivotal, it is one of the fastest growing components in the peacekeeping operations,” said Mr Gurung.
The Minister for Home Affairs and Immigration, Honorable Pio Tikoduadua said the training marks a transformative journey that will equip participants with the necessary skills and knowledge to become certified instructors.
“By equipping ourselves with these specialized training packages, we ensure that our foot remains firmly in the door when peacekeeping opportunities arise. Moreover, as Fiji, we have made commitments to our regional partners to be a hub for peacekeeping training, bringing this vital training closer to our doorstep,” said Hon. Tikoduadua.
He adds that the inclusion of law enforcement partners from this region presents the possibility of expanding training opportunities, fostering greater collaboration, and strengthening regional ties.
“The impact of having more certified trainers within our region cannot be underestimated. It will contribute to the overall development and professionalism of law enforcement agencies, enhance regional security, and promote peace and stability in our communities.”
The United States Embassy Regional Security Officer Special Agent Samuel J McRae said the big Blue pacific has a long history of its contribution to Peacekeeping.
“To ensure that the Pacific Law Enforcement remains on an equal footing with the rest of the world. Our commitment to a safer pacific remains strong,” said McRae.
He said that they are pleased to support the UN mission to travel to Fiji to conduct this long awaited training.
“Police Officers go abroad to serve in conflict zones and they return home as better officers. The knowledge and ability they acquire enhance their ability to provide safety and security to their home communities.”
He adds that the training in Fiji is funded by the US government and developed in partnership with the Fiji Police Force, and the UN Police Division, and is the first Pacific Region UN Peacekeeping program of its kind.
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