On June 28th, 2023, the South African Police Service (SAPS) celebrated a significant milestone for 552 newly trained constables who completed the Basic Police Learning Development Programme (BPLDP). These officers will join the police force in their mission to protect and serve the citizens of South Africa.
Passing Out Parades
The SAPS hosted three passing out parades at the SAPS Academy Mthatha and SAPS Academy All Saints in the Eastern Cape, as well as the SAPS Academy Thabazimbi in Limpopo. The celebrations marked the first batch of the inaugural project 10,000, 2022 intake, which featured 245 Bachelor of Science (BSc) graduates among the new constables.
Keynote Address
The Minister of Police, General Bheki Cele, delivered the keynote address at the SAPS Academy Mthatha. In his speech, he emphasized the importance of equipping the police force with highly skilled and educated personnel. Members of the media were invited to witness the parade and capture the essence of this momentous occasion.
Celebrations
Deputy Minister of Police, Mr. Cassel Mathale, oversaw the celebrations at the SAPS Academy Thabazimbi, while the DPCI Head, Lieutenant General Lebeya, presided over the festivities at the SAPS Academy Bisho.
A Testament to Dedication and Commitment
The successful completion of the BPLDP by these 552 new constables is a testament to their dedication and commitment to serving their country. The inclusion of 245 BSc graduates in this group demonstrates the importance of a well-rounded, highly educated police force, capable of addressing the complex challenges faced by modern law enforcement agencies.
Bolstering the SAPS
The parades were not only an opportunity to celebrate the achievements of these new constables but also a chance to reflect on the ongoing efforts to bolster the SAPS. The project 10,000 initiative aims to recruit and train 10,000 new police officers, enhancing the overall capacity of the police service and ensuring they can effectively uphold the law and protect the citizens of South Africa.
Setting a High Standard
As the first batch of project 10,000, the 552 newly trained constables have set a high standard for the remaining recruits. Their commitment to learning and professional development will serve as an inspiration for the thousands of aspiring police officers who will follow in their footsteps.
A Promising Future
These parades marked a noteworthy achievement, not only for the 552 constables but also for the SAPS as an institution. The successful training and integration of such a large number of new officers, including a significant proportion of BSc graduates, signals a promising future for the South African Police Service.
Contributing to a Safer Future
The addition of these highly skilled, educated individuals to the force is a clear indication of the government’s commitment to enhancing the quality of law enforcement in South Africa. As these new constables embark on their careers, they will undoubtedly contribute to a safer, more secure future for all citizens.
Continuing to Train and Recruit
In the months and years to come, the SAPS will continue to train and recruit dedicated individuals to join their ranks. With initiatives like project 10,000 underway, the future of the South African Police Service looks brighter than ever.
