ST. JOHN'S, Antigua — The commandant of the Sir Wright F. George Police Academy is calling on the government to construct a modern, purpose-built training facility, warning that the current infrastructure is no longer equipped to meet the demands of contemporary law enforcement.
According to Antigua News Room, Superintendent Rodney Ellis made the appeal during his Commandant's Report at the graduation ceremony for the 50th Recruit Training Course, arguing that sustained investment in police training is essential to the nation's security.
"We need a modern police academy. Not simply a facility for recruit training, but a centre for continuous professional development throughout an officer's career," Ellis said.
Ellis framed the call within the broader context of national development, noting that while Antigua and Barbuda has made significant investments in healthcare and education, security infrastructure has not received comparable attention.
"Our nation continues to grow. Our Prime Minister has spoken about building an economic powerhouse and indeed we are making remarkable progress," Ellis said. "However, every successful nation must be built upon three essential pillars: healthcare, education and security."
He acknowledged recent progress in police infrastructure, citing the construction of modern stations in St. John's, Woodlands and All Saints, but stressed that training facilities have failed to keep pace with those developments.
"These developments are commendable. But now we need a modern police academy," he said. "If you glance behind you today, you will see the current condition of our academy facility."
Ellis warned that the evolving sophistication of criminal activity demands a corresponding upgrade in law enforcement capabilities. "Criminals continue to become more sophisticated, utilising advanced technology and increasingly complex methods," he said. "Consequently, law enforcement must remain one step ahead through continuous education, specialised training and professional development."
He directed a formal appeal to Prime Minister Gaston Browne, Attorney General Sir Steadroy Benjamin and other stakeholders to support the construction of a new academy on the existing site.
"I therefore respectfully appeal to the Honourable Prime Minister, the Honourable Attorney General and all relevant stakeholders to support the construction of a modern, fully equipped police academy on this very site," Ellis said.
Ellis outlined a vision for the proposed facility that would extend well beyond basic recruit training. He said it could partner with the University of the West Indies Five Islands Campus to offer specialised programmes in leadership development, legal studies, forensic science, cybercrime investigation and intelligence-led policing.
"Such a facility would enable us to deliver specialised courses that will strengthen policing for generations to come," he said.
The appeal came as the academy marked a significant milestone — the graduation of its 50th recruit training course. Ellis reported that 43 recruits successfully completed the six-month programme, recording a 95.6 percent pass rate.
