The new Supervisor Central Eastern division SP Panapasa
talks to officers' wives today.

Long serving Corrections officer Salote Naulivou Panapasa was traditionally welcomed by wives of Corrections officers at Korovou today.

Panapasa, who has just been appointed Supervisor Central Eastern division, was overcome with emotion as she reflected on the long journey that led her to where she is today.

She is the first and only female in the Fiji Corrections Service to hold the rank of Superintendent and of course the first woman to be appointed Supervisor in a major division.

The Lau woman is now directly in charge of the Suva, Nasinu and Levuka Corrections Centre - a post only previously held by men.

And being in this male-dominated profession for more than 20 years, she knows all too well the responsibilities expected of her.

“I love challenges and I am passionate about my work. I am grateful for the support of my family and of fellow colleagues,” Mrs Panapasa said.

While speaking to the officers’ wives, the mother of three emphasized the importance of support from home.

“Our work as Corrections officers now demands more from us because of the new direction we are heading towards. We are heading towards change and change is inevitable.

“If your husbands come home late, make sure their meals are ready, don’t tell them off because if you do, it will affect their performance at work.

“If all is not well from home, certainly work will not be done properly,” she said.

“Gone are the days when Corrections officers end their shifts and have a bowl of grog, times have changed. All I ask that you support your husbands,” Mrs Panapasa added. 

www.corrections.org.fj

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