Citizens seeking assistance from embassies, consulates and other government agencies must be able to rely on professional, respectful and customer-oriented treatment. Minister Melvin Bouva of Buitenlandse Zaken, Internationale Handel en Samenwerking (BIS) stressed this on Friday, October 9, at the closing of the 2026 Consular Training programme of the Suriname Diplomaten Instituut (SDI).
Staff of BIS, Surinamese missions abroad and partner agencies attended classes on consular services for eight weeks. The programme concluded with presentations by participants and a certificate ceremony attended by the minister.
The training covered, among other topics, immigration issues, passport matters and dealing with complex consular situations. Attention was also paid to communication, leadership, social skills, organisation and management.
Bouva pointed to the importance of continued investment in staff training. Modern systems and digitalisation support service delivery, but according to the minister, well-trained, committed and honest employees remain decisive for its quality. He called on participants to apply their knowledge in their daily work and continue developing themselves.
Director of General Administration and Consular Affairs Luziano Truideman emphasised that the changing international environment requires professionals who can adequately assist Surinamese citizens, both in the country and abroad. According to him, continuous training and cooperation between ministries and government agencies are important in this regard.
Ambassador Angela Ramkisoen, who contributed to the programme as a trainer, highlighted the commitment of the participants. Many attended classes after a full working day or from different time zones. She stressed the importance of empathy, active listening and professional communication in contact with citizens.
SDI dean Sita Achthoven indicated that contact with the participants will continue after the certificate ceremony. The institute also intends to draw on their expertise and experience within its network in the future.
