KINGSTON, Jamaica – The Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) has been boosted with the addition of 139 new constables.

They were presented at a Passing Out Parade, held at the National Police College of Jamaica in St Catherine, on Thursday.

In his address at the ceremony, National Security Minister, Dr Horace Chang, welcomed the new members, noting that they are “coming in at a good time when, fortunately, you will not meet some of the conditions and challenges that existed several years ago”.

“In fact, you are joining the Force at a time of great transformation – a time when both our country and the Force are making great strides towards a brighter future,” Dr Chang said.

“Your role as constables is pivotal in maintaining public order, ensuring peace, and enabling the social and economic development of our nation. The Government will continue to provide the resources and tools needed to support you in this critical mission, in order to ensure a strong foundation for growth and development,” he added.

Meanwhile, Dr Chang said that today, young people are at a crossroads and are making choices about who they want to be and how they want to contribute to society.

He noted that some, like the graduates, have chosen the path of service, by deciding “to engage with your country in a positive, productive way, by dedicating yourselves to a noble profession that will make a difference in the lives of your fellow citizens. You have chosen to build, to protect, and to serve”.

Dr Chang further noted that, unfortunately, there are others who have made very different choices and have found ways to gain power through illicit means.

“We see them involved in activities such as advance-fee fraud and other forms of criminality, generating enormous criminal proceeds. But here lies the tragedy: while they may possess money, power, and influence, they lack the maturity, wisdom, and responsibility required to wield such power. And so, ultimately, they are consumed by the very power they sought. And it is this unchecked power that fuels much of the violence and criminality plaguing our country today,” the minister said.

“It is in the face of this stark contrast, the choice between nation-building and destruction, that you, the graduates, stand out. You have made the conscious decision to contribute to the growth and development of your country, not to become part of the problem. You have chosen to be part of the solution to the challenges we face, rather than being part of the greatest obstacle to our progress – crime and violence,” he added.

Dr Chang said in choosing the path of law enforcement, the graduates are upholding the values of justice, integrity, and responsibility, while adding that as Constables, they have the perfect opportunity to be role models and mentors, especially to young people who are still at that crossroads, unsure of which direction to take.

“You can show them that true power lies not in money gained through deception or crime but in the ability to serve others, protect the innocent, and stand firm for what is right. I believe deeply that this generation has the potential to turn the tide. The choices our young people make today will determine the direction of our future. As you take on the responsibility of law enforcement, you are not just shaping your own future but the future of Jamaica itself. A future of justice, peace, and prosperity,” the minister said.

– JIS