On Wednesday afternoon, the Minister of Justice, mr. drs. Arthur Dowers, officially announced during a press conference that the Government is opening vacancies for candidates wishing to enter the Correctional Officer Trainee program for the KIA Correctional Institute.
After a significant period without opening opportunities to incorporate new personnel at KIA, this decision comes at a strategic moment. Given the current pressure on existing staff and in anticipation of the construction of a new correctional facility, Minister Dowers emphasized that it is essential to reinforce the system with new talent. Therefore, a new class will be opened for the 2026-2027 period.
Minister Dowers highlighted the important role correctional trainees play in maintaining order, working under pressure, and guiding detainees with dignity. The function is more than just security; it includes an active contribution to the resocialization process of inmates, which is a vital pillar of the justice system.
Requirements to Qualify:
- Dutch nationality.
- Diploma level: MAVO 4, LTS T-stroom, EPB doorstroom, HAVO, or EPI.
- Age: Between 21 and 35 years old.
- Minimum height: 1.60 meters.
- Mandatory assessments: Medical evaluation, psychotechnical testing, physical fitness test, and a background investigation.
- Language proficiency: Fluency in Papiamento, Dutch, English, and Spanish is mandatory.
Application Process: Interested persons must submit a motivation letter, copy of their diploma, two recent passport photos (max 3 months old), a 5-florin extract from the Civil Registry (Censo), and a CV. These can be delivered on April 29 and 30 at the KIA Training Center in Balashi (located behind the Santa Cruz Police Station) between 8:30 AM and 1:00 PM. Those unable to attend in person can email their documents to lizmarie.caster@dgwa.aw.
From the pool of applicants, the top fifteen candidates will be selected for an intensive multi-month trajectory. During this period, candidates will receive a monthly salary, and upon successful completion of the training, they will formally enter Government service.