Changing the mindset is the greatest challenge in a change process, says interim Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama when he opens the 2nd Heads of Pacific Island Corrections Conference in Suva yesterday(Oct 13, 2008).
Commodore Bainimarama says that the conference theme ‘Towards a better approach to correctional practice for the Pacific’ is most fitting.
“It reflects an appreciation of the contemporary approach to correctional management in accordance with international best practice,” he says. “It also suggests the redefining of traditional, familiar and proven approach to that of a ‘new culture’ and change perception. The theme also provides the scope to explore what is relevant for the Pacific by learning from experiences of other systems outside the region as well as from empirical research and studies done on the subject.
“In Fiji, as part of this progressive approach, changes in correctional practices are being implemented to shift from the mindset of prisons as a place of confinement to a piece of rehabilitation,” he says. “In this paradigm shift inmates are being provided with the necessary values, skills and the capacity that would better equip them for life in the outside world.
“Change is never an easy process and it is even more challenging for organisations such as yours where paradigm shift is crucial to the transformation desired.
“As heads of corrections, the greatest challenge you are likely to face in this regard is changing the mindset of those you work with. This no doubt will take time and requires the building of capacity as well as managing the change process with sensitivity and wisdom.”
The four-day conference ends on Thursday (Oct. 16)