The Public Service Fale recently visited Palau to further work on two key projects advancing Palau’s public sector strengthening programme.
The first is the development of orientation modules for new public servants. Shifting the modules from paper based to online ensures a more consistent and engaging onboarding process and reduces the need for face-to-face meetings. The modules will reduce pressure on HR staff while giving employees an accessible, ongoing reference for their rights, responsibilities, and roles within the public service.
Fale project lead Elaine Nicholas noted the visit provided an opportunity to better understand local context, test assumptions, explore ideas, and co-design the modules with those who know Palau’s public service best. This included Lahaina Ngirkelau and Deserei Imeong from the Bureau of Human Resources, as well as Director Terralyn Nabeyama, whose experience across the public service provided valuable insights. Their collective expertise helped shape the modules’ structure and content. Meeting in person made it easier to finalise the content and strengthened relationships, creating a strong foundation for the project’s final development phase.
The visit to Palau also provided an opportunity to advance planning for Fono 2026: Pacific Public Service Leaders’ Conference, which will be hosted by the Government of Palau from 9–13 November 2026.
Deputy Commissioner Tania Ott and Senior Advisor Teanuanua Nicole were able to work closely with Fono Chair, Terralyn Nabeyama on finalising key conference arrangements, including the Fono programme ensuring it reflects the priorities and aspirations of Pacific Public Service Leaders. A strong theme emerging from discussions was the importance of creating more space for Commissioners to connect, learn from one another, and explore shared challenges in practical and meaningful ways.
The Palau visit reflects the Fale’s commitment to partnership-led development. Through listening, learning, and ongoing collaboration, our work is shaped by local knowledge and priorities, as we continue to offer support in the Pacific.