Solomon Islands Integrity Institutions Celebrate Pioneer Graduates of the Integrity Professional Foundations Course
On December 20th, 2024, the Solomon Islands integrity institutions proudly hosted a certificate handing-over ceremony to honor the inaugural participants of the Integrity Professional Foundations Course.
This noteworthy initiative, offered by Griffith University and supported by the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) in PNG, was conducted in collaboration with the Office of the Prime Minister’s Policy and Program Unit.
This specialized course has been designed to provide foundational knowledge and skills to early-career integrity professionals as well as seasoned individuals transitioning into integrity roles within government agencies. Participants gained critical insights into their organizational functions, operational requirements, and the legal, political, and policy contexts relevant to their work.
Director General of the Solomon Islands Independent Commission Against Corruption (SIICAC), John Kouni, delivered an impactful keynote address emphasizing the vital role of integrity and accountability within public service. Kouni highlighted that among the certificate recipients, nine individuals represented various integrity and accountability institutions, while two were dedicated staff members from Transparency Solomon Islands International.
“This event marks a significant milestone in our ongoing efforts to cultivate a culture of integrity and good governance throughout our nation,” said Kouni. He acknowledged the collaborative efforts of numerous organizations and individuals whose commitment has made the Integrity Professional Foundations Course a reality.
“Today symbolizes a pivotal moment in your professional journey as you are recognized for successfully completing this six-month training course. Your accomplishment not only reflects your dedication but also serves as a beacon of hope for the future of our institutions,” Kouni stated.
Kouni stressed the relevance of the course in addressing the pressing integrity challenges faced within the public service sector. He reinforced the necessity of collaboration between civil society organizations and government integrity institutions, underscoring their collective mission to combat corruption and promote transparency across the nation.
“As you receive your certificates today, remember that this is not just recognition of your hard work but also a responsibility to uphold the principles of integrity.”
He encouraged them to become change-makers in their communities, embodying the values of service, integrity, and leadership.
Assistant Secretary of Policy and Programs Office at the Prime Minister and Cabinet (OPMC), Philip Manakako Jnr, expressed immense pride in the achievements of the course participants. He reaffirmed the event’s significance as a historic initiative under the National Anti-Corruption Strategy 2024-2027, reflecting the government’s unwavering dedication to fostering integrity and good governance.
“This ceremony represents a significant milestone and a pioneering effort under our National Anti-Corruption Strategy, demonstrating our resolute commitment to combat corruption and promote good governance,” Manakako stated.
He also shared the overwhelmingly positive feedback from Griffith University and the program sponsors, commending the participants for their dedication and hard work.
Looking ahead, Manakako announced plans for discussions with the UNODC to expand the program to participants from other countries in the region, positioning the Solomon Islands as a leader in regional integrity initiatives.
“These initiatives aim to enhance the capacity of enforcement agencies and accountability institutions to effectively address investigative and preventive efforts,” he added.
As part of enhancing these efforts, discussions are currently underway with the Police Academy to develop an anti-corruption investigative manual that will strengthen training capabilities for law enforcement professionals in alignment with international standards.
Also speaking during the handover ceremony, Deputy Secretary for Government Public Management of the Ministry of Public Service, Ian Rakafia, congratulated the officers on reaching this significant milestone.
He articulated the crucial nature of accountability and good governance in today’s world and praised the course’s completion as a courageous step toward thriving amidst challenges.
Rakafia also highlighted a recent agreement signed between the Solomon Islands Public Service and the Australian Public Service, which aims to enhance workforce skills, address specific needs, and empower effective governance practices.
Course participant representative and Principal Investigation Officer at the Leadership Code Commission, Tarissa Bula, reflected on the informative nature of the course, which included travel to Australia and PNG this year. She emphasized that the training has equipped participants to tackle integrity issues and combat corruption in both public and private sectors. While acknowledging the challenges inherent in fighting corruption, she expressed a renewed belief in their collective efforts to minimize and deter such practices within the workforce.
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-GCU Press Release