JCF graduates 295 constables from batches 163 and 164 at National Police College parade

Two hundred and ninety-five new Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) constables from batches 163 and 164 were formally graduated on Thursday at a passing-out parade and awards ceremony held at the National Police College of Jamaica (NPCJ).

The cohort completed initial and intermediate training under the Faculty of Initial and Probationary Training, covering 17 courses across three semesters and more than 116 instructional sessions. As members of the third group on the revised curriculum, they received diplomas in general policing and are slated to earn associate degrees in general policing after completing their probationary period.

Batch 163, comprising 152 recruits, began training on 30 March 2025 at the Twickenham Park campus. Batch 164, with 150 recruits, started on 31 March 2025 at Harmon Barracks. Superintendent Lawrence Gilvie served as commandant for both intakes. The recruits were sworn into office on 21 July 2025 and adopted the motto “Built to endure, bound by the mission to service.”

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of National Security Dr Horace Chang delivered the keynote address, welcoming the graduates into what he described as a transformed, service-oriented force. Commissioner of Police Dr Kevin Blake, who was appointed on 19 March 2024, also attended and received a sword salute. Assistant Commissioner Merrick Watson, director of the NPCJ, urged the new officers to earn public trust through professional, dignified service.

Valedictory addresses were delivered by Constable Shamoy Sims (batch 163) and Constable Donovan Davis (batch 164). During training, both batches supported Independence Grand Gala operations, festival duties, the 2025 general elections, and hurricane relief work in Westmoreland, St James, Hanover, Trelawny, and St Elizabeth following Hurricane Melissa.

Individual honours included best marksmanship (Constables Andrew Ray and Kimar Harris), highest course marks (Constables Jovian Bonfield-Legister and Leon Palmer), best leadership (Constables Laurel Allen and Donovan Davis), and best all-round performance (Constables Missiony Forbes and Omari Cox). Certificates were presented to class captains from each squad before the ceremonial drill display closed the programme.