The Republic of Fiji Military Forces proudly launched the 01/25 Junior Staff Officers (JSO) Course on Monday, 15 September 2025, at the RFMF Officers Training Centre in Vatuwaqa. The course was officially opened by the Commander of the Fiji Navy, Commodore (CDRE) Timoci Natuva. A total of 15 participants—including two warrant officers and 13 officers from HQ RFMF, HQ Land Force Command, and HQ Navy—will undertake this intensive 10-week program, which concludes on Friday, 21 November 2025.

The JSO Course is designed to develop core competencies in staff duties and military administration. It aims to equip junior officers with the knowledge, skills, and professional acumen required to effectively support command structures both in domestic operations and overseas deployments. The curriculum spans a wide array of subjects including military communications, legal frameworks, administrative procedures, financial systems, and leadership principles. A key feature of the course is the integration of the Veiliutaki Framework, where participants will engage in the “Leads Teams” level of leadership development.

In his opening address, CDRE Natuva emphasised the pivotal role junior officers play in setting the tone within their units. He highlighted that junior staff officers are instrumental in supporting commanders through sound administrative practices, clear communication, and disciplined execution of orders and directives. He reminded participants that leadership by example is not optional—it is essential. The course, he noted, provides the foundational understanding necessary for effective unit operations and fosters the ability to communicate with clarity and purpose across all levels of command.

Reflecting on his own journey, CDRE Natuva shared that he attended the JSO Course in 2007 and continues to apply its lessons throughout his career, both within the Fiji Navy and on international deployments. He invoked the strategic vision of Vice Admiral Mark Hammond, Chief of the Royal Australian Navy, who champions the mantra “Invest, Empower, Unleash.” CDRE Natuva contextualised this for the RFMF, stressing the importance of investing in junior officers, empowering them with knowledge and responsibility, and unleashing their potential to contribute meaningfully to the future of the Force.

In closing, CDRE Natuva urged all participants to fully engage with the course, absorb its teachings, and return to their units as more capable, disciplined, and effective officers. The responsibilities of junior staff officers are critical – not only for maintaining operational standards and discipline – but also for fostering a culture of excellence and professionalism across the RFMF.