Cops embark on training to learn about critical thinking, ethnical conduct & integrity – INews Guyana
The Guyana Police Force officially commenced its Junior Officers’ Course #1 of 2025 this morning (Monday, April 7, 2025), with an opening ceremony held at the Officers’ Training Center, Eve Leary, Georgetown.
The ceremony began with Christian prayer, done by Woman Assistant Superintendent ‘On Probation’, Ms. Metchelle Calder-Padmore, followed by Hindu and Muslim prayers led by Assistant Superintendent (On Probation), Mr. R. Ramnarine and Cadet Officer Mr. E. Khan, respectively.
In opening remarks, Director of the Guyana Police Force Academy, Woman Senior Superintendent Sonia Herbert, emphasized the objectives of the course. “This course is not just about acquiring technical expertise, it is also about developing your critical thinking, problem-solving and leadership abilities to our junior officers,” she stated. “You have been selected for this course because you have demonstrated exceptional potential, we have confidence in your ability to rise to the challenges that lie ahead.”
The 12-week training programme, coordinated by Woman Superintendent Leslyn Smith and assisted by Woman Deputy Superintendent Jillian Moore-Bowen, presents both academic and practical curriculum. Through structured classroom sessions and group activities, the course is designed to develop the critical skills, knowledge, and adaptability required for effective performance in complex and evolving operational contexts.
Notably, the course includes participants from Joint-Services agencies, including the Guyana Defence Force, Guyana Prison Service, City Constabulary, and Guyana Fire Service. The core objectives of the training include:
* Leadership development
* Effective communication
* Enhanced critical thinking
* Ethical conduct and integrity
* Team management
* In-depth understanding of organizational policies and procedures
Commissioner of Police, Mr. Clifton Hicken delivered brief remarks, highlighting the importance of professionalism, unity, and adherence to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs). He announced a target pass rate of 90%, well above the conventional 70% benchmark.
Commissioner Hicken also highlighted the inclusion of community outreach components within the training programme, aimed at strengthening public engagement and fostering trust. He urged officers to serve as ambassadors of the Force, encouraging positive public perception both in-person and through social media.
The ceremony concluded with a ‘Vote of Thanks’ delivered by Cadet Officer A. Felix, who expressed heartfelt appreciation to the Commissioner and the Executive Leadership Team for their unwavering support and vision. He encouraged his peers to approach the training with enthusiasm and a commitment to lifelong learning, invoking Henry Ford’s words: “Anyone who stops learning is old, whether at 20 or 80. Anyone who keeps learning stays young.”
The Junior Officers’ Course represents a pivotal step in shaping the next generation of leaders within the Guyana Police Force, founded on discipline, service, and the pursuit of excellence. [Press Statement]
