In a historic first for the Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary (RPNGC), sixteen women from the Blue Haven Women’s Alliance and wives of police officers, completed a financial literacy training program recently.
The two-day course, held at the Morata Police Barracks, marks the first time the force has undertaken formal financial education initiatives for its community members.
The participants were presented with certificates during a graduation ceremony, recognizing their completion of modules focused on essential skills such as budgeting, saving, and long-term financial planning.
Sergeant Joe Paiembi, Second-in-Command at Waigani Police Station, confirmed that this initiative represents a significant departure from traditional police training protocols.
“Police training has traditionally focused mainly on policing duties and operational aspects of law enforcement. This training marks an important step towards empowering mothers of the police community with practical financial management skills, addressing a critical need for welfare and stability within the force,” Sergeant Paiembi said.
Deputy Secretary for the Equality and Inclusion Division, Mr. Jack Simbou commended the participants for taking the initiative to improve their financial capabilities.
“Not many of us are very good at budgeting and planning, using money and managing money. So, I think it is a very important training for us to use, or even run, in all other departments that we have,” Mr. Simbou told the group.
He emphasized that these skills are vital for both public servants and those in the private sector.
Also speaking on behalf of the Policy Advice and Program Development Division, Assistant Director for Monitoring and Evaluation, Ms. Sharon Gore who highlighted the broader national impact of individual financial responsibility.
“Your participation and your interest to come and learn is an indication of your taking ownership of what we need to do as a country individually,” Ms. Gore said.
She encouraged the graduates to apply their new knowledge to foster greater economic resilience within their families and communities.
On behalf of the 16 participants, Chairlady of the Blue Haven Women’s Alliance, Ms. Josie Kikoi expressed gratitude to the Department and the Secretary for facilitating the program.
“It is a privilege for us, the Police Family, to attend this training. We have learned important lessons about budgeting, saving, managing our money wisely and planning for the future,” Ms. Kikoi said.
Ms. Kikoi urged her fellow attendees to view the certificate presentation not merely as a celebration, but as a binding commitment to implement these lessons in their daily lives. She noted that the skills gained would have a ripple effect, benefiting not only the participants but also their extended families, associations, and wider communities.
The success of this pilot program suggests potential for expanded financial literacy workshops within the RPNGC in the future, aiming to strengthen the socioeconomic foundation of the police family.
