As the Guyana Police Force continues on its growth and developmental trajectory, along with strides towards a more contemporary and robust training framework, the overarching goal remains to deliver services to the general public with heightened efficiency and efficacy.
This comprehensive initiative extends beyond the mere upgrade of facilities, delving into the development of a diverse array of courses offered to members of the Force and the general public, to foster academic support and empowerment.
Since the establishment of the first Zara Computer Centre back in 2012, the centres have expanded to almost every Region now with a total of fourteen (14) centres across the country. To date, the centres have remained a beacon of empowerment, as more than seven thousand (7000) persons have been trained in various computer courses.
The FREE computer studies and training programmes at the Zara Computer Centres symbolize a commitment to equipping individuals with the tools necessary for success in an increasingly digital world.
Coordinator of the Guyana Police Force Academy Zara Computer Centres, Assistant Superintendent, Gladwin Hanover, stated that beyond imparting technical skills, these programmes foster a sense of inclusivity, breaking down barriers and creating a shared space for learning and growth.
ASP Hanover also noted that the Guyana Police Force Zara Centres, through its forward-thinking approach, continue to make substantial headway in promoting education, skill development, and community collaboration. One of which he said embodies a holistic vision for a contemporary Police Force.
To that extent, he went on to say that with these centres in place, the Guyana Police Force intends to continue to bridge the gap between members of the public and the Police. This is being achieved by placing the centres within police environments, where police officers will teach members of the public. In turn, this strengthens the relationship between the police and the community.
According to Mr. Hanover, it was a great success and this paved the way for this initiative to spread across other regions. With 2023 being dubbed “the best year” in terms of the headway that the Zara Computers Centres have made, Hanover said civilians were able to attain jobs through the Guyana Police Force after completing courses at these centres.
Some of the courses offered are Foundation and Advanced courses in Microsoft Office 2019, along with other courses strictly for policemen and women. However, PC Repair and Maintenance and Web Page Design courses are only currently being offered at the Essequibo Zara Computer Centre.
In terms of headway, as of January 15th, 2024, the Force launched its online platform where classes will be conducted online. This is to accommodate those persons who may have a busy schedule and are unable to attend in-person classes for whatever reasons. In addition to that, examinations can be done Online but the same must be done at the Zara Computer Centre.
So, therefore, the computer centres that have been established across the country will serve three main purposes, among others. These are training for all youths and members of the communities across the country where the centres are established, and academic development.
The second objective focuses on the development of the ranks of the Guyana Police Force. The same will see curricula being rolled out that include all the necessary information and skills that ranks need to perform their duties. This will ensure that they have access to the requisite training, knowledge, and skills to carry out their duties effectively.
Meanwhile, Assistant Superintendent Raun Clarke, who is the Commandant of the Guyana Police Force’s Academy (Georgetown Campus), indicated that the Force currently has 104 recruits across the training colleges/campuses.
Given the GPF’s academy status, he alluded to the rehabilitation and infrastructure work that is currently ongoing at the Police Academy. Work is slated to be completed ahead of the Senior and Junior Officers’ Courses that are slated to commence sometime early next month (February).
Clarke said the modernization of the academy is aimed at delivering training at a higher standard. Amongst the facilities being rehabilitated are the Inspector and Sergeant Mess Hall, Gym, and Barrack Rooms. Also, on the list is a newly-built swimming pool. These works will eventually pave the way for the resuscitation of the Guyana Police Force’s museum.
It was also stated that members of the public who wish to join the Guyana Police Force can apply online where the examination date is selected. However, at this time, this examination can only be done at the Zara Computer Centre located at Police Headquarters, Eve Leary.
In September last, the Guyana Police Force made history as its academy is the first public entity that has attained Accreditation, which paved the way for ranks to be recognized regionally and internationally. The Guyana Police Force’s leadership and vision must be recognised and lauded as this achievement certainly marked a pivotal moment in the journey of the modernization of the Guyana Police Force. Top Cop Clifton Hicken and Deputy Commissioner ‘Administration’ Mr Calvin Brutus have been at the forefront of spearheading this massive transformation of the Police Academy.
As such, the academy will continue to position itself as a beacon of academic support, empowering members of the GPF and the general public.
