Law enforcement and correctional officers in Samoa started a training program on Monday aimed at strengthening their capabilities and address fundamental aspects of effective law enforcement and corrections work.
The “Law Enforcement, Corrections and Mental Health Subject Matter Exchange Exercise,” facilitated by the U.S. Embassy in collaboration with the Nevada National Guard, marks a significant milestone in the State Partnership Program initiated between the Government of Samoa and the Nevada National Guard in July 2023.
Samoa Observer reports the week long training will include basic leadership principles, crisis management strategies, and mental health considerations.
Police Commissioner Auapa’au Logoitino Filipo emphasized the program’s importance, underscoring the necessity for officers to be thoroughly prepared for high-pressure environments.
“This program lays the groundwork for a robust partnership that will benefit both our nations. It provides an opportunity for our officers to learn from their counterparts in Nevada and vice versa, fostering mutual understanding and enhancing our collective skills.”
Daniel Tarapacki, the recently appointed Chargé d’Affaires at the U.S. Embassy, echoed this sentiment as well and celebrated the training as a landmark moment in the growing partnership.
This initiative follows a recent successful program with the Samoa Fire and Emergency Services Authority (S.F.E.S.A.), where the Nevada National Guard team provided training in emergency medical services.
