Seventeen personnel from the PNG Correctional Services (CS) and the Royal PNG Constabulary (RPNGC) participated in a three-day workshop on child protection at the Bomana Correctional Services Training College facilitated by Save the Children’s Child Protection Team.
The 17 officers consisting of seven females and 10 males are currently based at PNG CS Bomana Training College and Bomana Police Training College.
Topics covered during the training included; what is child protection, effects and impacts of abuse and violence on children, the UN Convention on the rights of the Child, as well as the responsibilities of parents and professionals working with children.
The officers from the two law enforcement institutions were chosen because they work directly with children who come in conflict with the law.
They expressed learning life lessons and getting valuable insights about the rights of children and how to look after children.
Senior Constable Delta Namui, with the RPNGC National Center of Excellence Recruit School at Bomana said, “One phrase that I learned that will stay with me for the rest of my life is ‘What is the best thing for the child?’ I will have to put that concept into everything I do, with my kids, in my work and everything… it’s like a guiding tool for me.”
Officer in Charge of Juvenile Section at Bomana Correctional Services Senior. Inspector Timothy Kaupe said, “One thing I learned was how to treat children. This really inspired me! I must be the agent of change, and this starts in my home and then I bring it to others. This training needs to be brought to the CS Training Facilities so that it can be imparted to the new recruits in other CS institutions around the country as well.”
Bomana Prison Commander Chief Superintendent Kiddy Keko and Save the Children’s Deputy Operations Director, Lydia Seta were present to witness and give certificates to the 17 officers.
Life Skills for Success Program Lead, Kostang Jnr Kostang says, “It is important that we work in partnership with law enforcement agencies and support them with capacity building via trainings so their personnel understand children’s rights and can be able to carry out their jobs effectively in accordance with the laws to protect children and young people.”
The training was conducted under Save the Children’s Life Skills for Success Program, which is proudly supported by Hand Heart Pocket.