The Republic of Fiji Military Forces (RFMF) Veiliutaki Framework Lead Systems course was officially opened by Deputy Commander of the RFMF, Commodore (CDRE) Humphery Tawake, on 26 August, 2024 at the Coloisuva Ministry of Forestry Training Facility.

During his opening remarks, CDRE Tawake highlighted the complexities of the current strategic environment and outlined the changing roles of modern military leadership.

CDRE Tawake highlighted the significance of strategic vision in decision-making, effective communication, team planning, technical expertise, ethical leadership, moral courage, adaptability, innovation, diplomacy, and international collaboration. He mentioned that leadership is about understanding the processes within an organisation.

“System leadership is about building a culture in which systems approaches can flourish. System leaders are the tone for an organisation to work more systematically and encourage the staff to embed systems-based approaches in their work,” CDRE Tawake said.

CDRE Tawake also mentioned that a system leader is able to influence others, direct group attention toward the best course of action, and develop and maintain cross-departmental and cross-directional leadership to ensure that everyone understands the goals and systems.

In conclusion, CDRE Tawake emphasised that by interacting with the peers of this new leadership, there will be cultural and mindset changes. It will be transformative in nature. In the best practices, it will require accountability and transparency in delivering roles as a systems leader.

The course, designed to empower RFMF Majors, Captains, and Warrant Officer Level Leaders, marks a significant step in enhancing leadership capabilities within the RFMF.