New Constables Join the Ranks of the JCF
128 Constables Graduate from National Police College of Jamaica
Kingston, Jamaica – August 28, 2024*
In a momentous ceremony held on Wednesday, August 28, 2024, 128 new constables proudly graduated from the National Police College of Jamaica (NPCJ), marking the culmination of months of rigorous training and preparation. The event, which took place at the NPCJ's Twickenham Park campus in St. Catherine, was attended by senior officials, family members, and dignitaries who gathered to celebrate the achievements of the graduates.
This batch, number 154, commenced their basic training at the Tranquility Bay Training Campus in St. Elizabeth on Sunday, October 1, 2023. Included in the batch are thirty vibrant young women who have pledged their services to their country in a year when the Constabulary is celebrating the 75th anniversary of the entry of women within its ranks.
In a continued nod to this significant occasion, the graduation parade was marshalled by Sgt. Keisha Bentley, who commanded the parade in fine style and led the exercise with precision. She was supported by supernumerary members, all of the women, with the exception of one.
Another thrilling moment was the acknowledgment of the four decades of service of Deputy Commissioner of Police Fitz Bailey, head of the Crime and Security Portfolio, who retires this year. In attendance at his last police graduation following a law enforcement career dotted with accomplishments, DCP Bailey was presented with a citation from the Commissioner of Police, Dr. Kevin Blake. He was also offered a special award from the training branch, which was presented by Assistant Commissioner of Police Merrick Watson, for his contribution to the training and development branch.
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of National Security, the Hon. Dr. Horace Chang, addressed the parade audience, highlighting the significance of women in the Force, lauding its maintenance of equity within its ranks, and promoting women to positions of leadership within the organization.
The graduates, who have successfully completed the NPCJ's demanding program, are now fully equipped to serve and protect the citizens of Jamaica. Their training included a comprehensive curriculum that covered law enforcement tactics, criminal investigation techniques, community policing, human rights, and the legal framework within which they will operate. Physical fitness, ethical conduct, and leadership were also key components of the program.
From the striking drill display to the presentation of awards to top graduates, the ceremony was a delight to attendees, many of whom were proud and joyful family and friends of the nation’s newest police officers.
The graduation of these 128 constables comes at a critical time for Jamaica, as the government continues to implement strategies to combat crime and enhance public safety. The newly minted officers will be deployed across the island, where they are expected to contribute to ongoing efforts to strengthen community policing and reduce crime rates.
As the ceremony concluded, the graduates marched off the parade ground with a sense of pride and determination, ready to begin their careers in law enforcement. Their graduation is not only a personal achievement but also a significant step forward in the ongoing efforts to ensure the safety and security of all Jamaicans.