Ministry of Justice and Community Services (MJCS) launches new leadership program to drive forward public service delivery
PORT VILA, SEPTEMBER 18: The Ministry of Justice and Community Services (MJCS), in partnership with the Public Service Commission through the Vanuatu Institute of Public Administration, today officially launched a new Public Service Leadership Program designed to enhance leadership skills, strengthen executive capabilities, and support the personal and professional development of justice sector professionals.
The innovative new initiative will see a group of 20 participants (11 women and 9 men), representing eleven justice sector agencies, undertake a 2-month certificate course.
Launching the program, Honourable, John Amos Nalau Masilaiwia, Minister of Justice and Community Services, expressed confidence the leadership initiative will help strengthen the justice sector.
“Today’s event marks a crucial step forward in our commitment to enhancing leadership within the public service,” said Minister Amos.
“Communities depend on the dedicated and talented professionals who strive to improve access to justice every day. “This program is not only about supporting these fantastic up-and-coming leaders and developing their individual skills, but also about fostering a culture of excellence within our public service.
“It is part of a broader effort to improve governance, enhance service delivery, and ensure that our agencies are equipped with the skills and knowledge needed to meet the challenges of the future.”
The University of the South Pacific (USP) accredited certificate program has been collaboratively developed by MJCS partners and builds on an innovative leadership program piloted in recent years by Vanuatu’s health sector and Australia’s Balance of Power (BoP).
This latest program marks a new and exciting journey between the Vanuatu Institute of Public Administration and Management (VIPAM) and the MJCS.
Australian funded programs, including BoP, the Vanuatu Australia Policing and Justice Program (VAPJP), and the Vanuatu Skills Partnership collectively worked alongside MJCS and USP on a model for locally led conceptualisation, development and delivery.
Extensive efforts were made throughout the process to ensure authentic engagement with collaborators who understand the challenges facing emerging leaders in the justice sector.
Minister Amos expressed his gratitude for the contributions and support of Australia’s partner programs.
The Australian Deputy High Commissioner to Vanuatu, Ms Emily Fisher, welcomed the new program. He emphasised Australia’s long-term partnership with Vanuatu’s policing and justice sector in delivering improved services to communities.
“Australia recognises the critical work of the outstanding professionals who work across the justice and community services sector to meet the needs of communities, strengthen the rule of law, and protect human rights,” said Deputy High Commissioner Ms Fisher.
“We welcome the new Public Service Leadership Program as an invaluable support for emerging leaders across the sector and are hopeful it will act as a significant step towards realising the Ministry’s vision of Jastis, sefti, digniti, rispek mo gud fasin blong evriwan.”
The launch event in the Melanesian Hotel in Port Vila also featured positive remarks from dignitaries and partners, such as Mr. Martin R, Mahe Chairman of the Public Service Commission and Executive Director, Balance of Power, Jennifer Kalpokas Doan.
The program will involve a total of 30 hours of coursework as required by USP and upon completion, each participant will receive a Certificate of Professional Development in Public Service Workplace Leadership.
