Sandals Corporate University empowers 2,000 police officers in landmark training initiative
Published:Monday | March 17, 2025 | 7:18 PMJanet Silvera/Gleaner Writer
WESTERN BUREAU:
In a bold move to enhance the professionalism and effectiveness of Jamaica’s law enforcement, Sandals Corporate University (SCU) has launched an ambitious initiative to train 2,000 rank-and-file officers of the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF).
Backed by Sandals’ Executive Chairman, Adam Stewart, this groundbreaking programme aims to strengthen the role of law enforcement, particularly in safeguarding Jamaica’s economic lifeline – tourism.
At the core of this initiative is a carefully designed curriculum that equips officers with leadership, conflict resolution, and emotional intelligence skills, ensuring they understand their crucial role in the tourism sector.
Dr Luz Longsworth, Senior Corporate Director of SCU, emphasised the strategic importance of the training.
“The vision for Sandals Corporate University is all about transforming people. This programme was designed to sensitise JCF officers about their pivotal role in protecting one of Jamaica’s most vital economic assets – our tourism industry,” she stated.
Longsworth was speaking at a certificate presentation ceremony for the first cohort of 210 officers, who completed leadership training at Sandals Montego Bay on Thursday morning.
Among those recognised were inspectors, deputy superintendents, superintendents, senior superintendents, and an assistant commissioner of police.
She credited Stewart’s commitment to human capital development for turning the initiative into reality, adding that the training was not born out of obligation but from a deep-seated belief in people empowerment.
SPECIALISED TRAINING FOR LAW ENFORCEMENT
With full backing from Sandals, SCU developed a customised six-module curriculum tailored for law enforcement professionals who interact with tourists daily.
The training covers:
• The Economic Value of Security in Tourism
• Self-Awareness & Emotional Intelligence
• Stress Management Techniques
• Leadership & Personal Branding
• Conflict Resolution & Communication
• De-escalation Techniques & Resource Management
Phase One, which ran from November 11, 2024, to January 9, 2025, marked a historic first for the JCF, successfully training 210 officers in sector-specific police training. The long-term plan aims to expand this number to 2,000 officers, ensuring a nationwide impact.
A GAME-CHANGER FOR LAW ENFORCEMENT
Commissioner of Police, Dr Kevin Blake, hailed the initiative as a transformative step for Jamaica’s law enforcement landscape, highlighting the critical link between security and economic stability.
“For many, policing is seen simply as a tour of duty. But let us be reminded that our work is intrinsically linked to the sustainable development of our nation,” said Blake.
“We are not merely fulfilling routine tasks; we are actively contributing to nation-building.”
Blake stressed that JCF officers are more than just enforcers of the law; they are protectors of Jamaica’s economic future.
“Their vigilance ensures that our shores, resources, and cultural landmarks remain safe for both citizens and visitors. In doing so, they strengthen our economy and directly contribute to national development,” he explained.
He also underscored the importance of public-private partnerships, commending Sandals Corporate University for recognising the shared responsibility between law enforcement and industry leaders.
“Our collaboration with Sandals Corporate University signifies a shared vision – one that is about more than just security. It is about training leaders and fostering a culture of excellence within the JCF,” Blake added.
Phase Two of the programme will train the remaining 1,790 officers, with a strong emphasis on leadership, stakeholder engagement, and real-world application.
With this initiative, Sandals Corporate University and the JCF are setting a new standard for law enforcement training, reinforcing the crucial role of security in national development.