The Honourable Minister Ribanataake Tiwau officiated the graduation ceremony of 62 new fisheries observers from Tarawa and Christmas Island on 26 December 2025 in Ambo, Tarawa.

In his address, he encouraged the new graduates to respect and uphold the significance of their responsibilities, describing them as "the eyes and ears of Kiribati."

Fisheries observers are professionally trained biological technicians who gather data on catch and discard by licensed commercial fishing vessels. They also monitor compliance with fishing and safety regulations and track protected species bycatch, all contributing to the sustainable management of the nation's oceanic fishery resources.

This ceremony marked the culmination of a ten-week intensive training program and the beginning of a new chapter in fisheries observation for the 62 graduates.

The event was honored by the presence of the Honourable Minister, the Secretary, and senior officials from the Ministry of Fisheries and Ocean Resources (MFOR).

MFOR extends its gratitude to the Pacific Community (SPC), the Pacific Islands Regional Fisheries Observers (PIRFO) trainers and trainee trainers, and the Marine Training Centre for their invaluable support in ensuring the success of the training program.