News from the Fale

Strengthening capability: AI strategy to service impact

The Australian Public Service Centre of Excellence for Workforce Planning is hosting an online session about how AI is shaping workforce planning, service delivery and capability building. All Pacific public servants are welcome to join!

Event details:
Date: Wednesday 18 March 2026
Time: 14:00 to 15:30 AEDT
Format: Online (MS Teams)
Registration: Not required

The agenda includes:

• Workforce Planning in 2026: AI, Skill gaps and the importance of analytics
• APS AI Plan – How AI Capability and Tools Make the APS More Effective
• Strengthening HR capability through skills-based communities of practice  
• A closer look: Service Delivery and the impact of AI

Download the calendar invite and add to your calendar by clicking here.
Or join the session on the day using the link here:  Join the meeting now.

If you have questions about the event, you can email the APS Centre of Excellence for Workforce Planning at apswfp@apsc.gov.au.

The Chandler Academy of Governance, in partnership with the University of Auckland Business School, is hosting a public webinar on governance for Public–Private Partnerships.

The session will look at how Public–Private Partnerships can be set up and managed to deliver reliable, long‑term benefits for communities. It will cover the practical factors that help these partnerships succeed, including the importance of strong governance and capable public‑sector leadership. The discussion offers useful lessons for Pacific public services involved in infrastructure and building institutional capacity.

Event details:

• Date: 23 February 2026
• Time: 3:00–4:30pm New Zealand Standard Time
• Where: Online
• Cost: Free

Speakers include:

• Dr Gary Miller, University of Auckland
• Sam Stubbs, Chief Executive Officer, Simplicity
• Dr David M. Van Slyke, Maxwell School of Citizenship and Public Affairs

Registration link:
Designing PPPs That Work: Governance for Real-World Delivery Tickets, Mon 23 Feb 2026 at 15:00 | Eventbrite
 

Applications are now open for the Manaaki New Zealand Thematic Short Term Training Scholarships, funded by the New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade (MFAT).

This two-week course (4–15 May 2026, based in Wellington, New Zealand) is designed for senior Pacific public servants seeking to strengthen strategic leadership capability. Delivered by Kāpuhipuhi Wellington Uni-Professional and led by Associate Professor Kabini Sanga, the programme covers:

• Public Sector Leadership in Aotearoa and the Pacific
• Ethics, Integrity, Values & Anti-Corruption
• Strategic Leadership & Public Financial Management
• Communication, Influence & Inclusive Policy
• Crisis, Risk, Resource & Resilience Management

Participants will gain insights into New Zealand public sector practices and receive a Manaaki NZ Scholarship Programme Certificate of Completion. 

You can find out more here: Manaaki New Zealand Thematic Short Term Training Scholarships.

The Cook Islands Government is seeking an experienced leader for the role of Secretary, Ministry of Infrastructure Cook Islands. This senior executive position leads the Ministry and is responsible for the strategic oversight of national infrastructure, policy delivery, and organisational performance.

In this role, you will lead the planning, design and implementation of capital projects, oversee civil works and Pa Enua infrastructure support, progress waste management initiatives, provide oversight of geospatial and hydrography programmes, and ensure compliance with building and electrical codes and standards.

For more information, please visit the Office of the Public Service Commissioner’s website: click here.

The Australasian Public Sector Anti-Corruption Conference (APSACC) is the premier event for those working to strengthen integrity and prevent corruption in the public sector.

The conference brings together experts and practitioners to share insights, strategies, and practical approaches to building ethical and transparent organisations. Attendees will gain:

• Access to leading research and case studies
• Practical tools and frameworks for anti-corruption initiatives
• Opportunities to network with integrity professionals across Australasia

For more details and to register, visit apsacc.com.au

Education/Training is one of the areas prioritised by the Government of Samoa. It is a critical ingredient in the nation’s overall development of a creative, productive, democratic and caring society. A quality education system prepares citizens for changing roles in a dynamic social, economic and global technological environment that is constantly changing.

The Chief Executive Officer for the Ministry of Education & Culture is responsible for leading and ensuring the provision of quality holistic education systems that recognizes spiritual, cultural, intellectual and physical potential for all people of Samoa. The Contract for the role is for a three (3) year term with a competitive remuneration package.

For more information visit the Samoa Public Service Commission website: click here.