In a significant move to strengthen civil service across the Pacific region, the Somare Institute of Leadership and Governance (SILAG), signed a four-year Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Fiji’s Leadership Institute of Public Service (FLIPS). The purpose of the MoU is to develop, enhance and promote mutual dialogue and cooperation between the parties in the areas of. · Capacity building interventions · Innovation Learning Design and Delivery · Collaborative Civil Service-Learning Programs · Research and Development · Work Attachments · Technical and Financial Resources Sharing, Workshops and Seminars Hosting at the national and subnational levels in the common pursuit of the Parties to the MoU. The MOU, which was formally discussed during a recent delegation visit, will facilitate the exchange of information and personnel between the two institutions. FLIPS Acting Permanent Secretary for Ministry of Civil Service Mr. Pita Tagicakirewa said, a key feature includes training exchanges, with Fijian delegations visiting SILAG to learn from their established public service programs. “This collaboration aligns with Fiji’s broader public sector reform, particularly the establishment of the Public Service-Learning Institute (PSLI) under the Fiji Public Service Reform Implementation Program (FRIPS). Initially set up as a public company, the PSLI is currently being transitioned into a private institutional body.” “Cabinet endorsed its creation in 2020, and legislation is expected to be tabled in Parliament next month. Full implementation is anticipated by January 2026,” said Mr. Tagicakirewa. Highlighting SILAG’s tiered training model, SILAG CEO Mr. Michael Barobe expressed particular interest in its structured approach to civil service education, which ensures that officers must complete courses tailored to their current level before advancing—right up to the CEO level. "That approach has already generated strong interest within PG," noted Mr. Barobe. SILAG CEO Mr. Barobe also shared that similar partnerships have been established with other pacific countries and institutions, including course development and online delivery. However, some collaborations have faced temporary setbacks due to political transitions in partner countries. Looking ahead, SILAG is exploring further partnerships with the Solomon Islands and the Cook Islands, signaling growing regional interest in collective civil service strengthening. Together, SILAG and FLIPS aim to create a pipeline of capable, qualified civil servants across the Pacific. The partnership signals a collective commitment to professional standards, accountability, and regional cooperation—essential pillars for sustainable governance in the region.