‘Trust your training!’
Some 120 new constables graduated from the National Police College of Jamaica (NPCJ) last week.
On record as Batch 136, they persevered throughout unique circumstances and had to adjust in the midst of these unprecedented times as we navigated the novel coronavirus pandemic as a nation.
The oath taken at the passing our ceremony was a significant moment that not only represents a promise to the Jamaican people but will ignite their careers serving in the premier law enforcement arm of the Government of Jamaica.
The constables are valuable, extraordinary, and selfless human beings. Driven by integrity and the high standards set by those before them, they made the bold and brave decision to commit to serving with pride.
Constable A J Wilson, who obtained the highest mark overall during the police training, credited his instructors ” even while on their day off they would still be assisting us with content, practice exams, etc, in an effort to make sure we are ready… We are here as law enforcement officers so we have to be equipped with the knowledge that will help us to do our jobs effectively and stand with pride while we serve”.
During the ceremony constables were also awarded for Best Marksman Principles, Best Leadership Qualities and Best All Round Performance.
The new constables were received by Major General Antony Anderson, commissioner of police; Devon Watkis, assistant commissioner of police and director of NPCJ; Merrick Watson, senior superintendent and deputy director of NPCJ; and Dr Horace Chang, deputy prime minister of Jamaica and minister of national security.
Dr Chang, who delivered the keynote address at the ceremony, spoke with much hope as he emphasised that the new constables chose to identify with the force for good in our society and have chosen the honourable profession of policing.
He welcomed the new generation of police officers and expressed his expectation of their positive contribution to the work of law enforcement.
“You have benefited from training with a modern philosophy in policing that is relevant to Jamaica today, which means that you are equipped with most, if not all of the modern requirements of policing which includes training in gender based violence, etc.”
He continued, “You have also received training to engage appropriately with heavily armed resourced brutal criminals who will kill… Trust your training, you have been well trained.”