Prime Minister, Dr. Edouard Ngirente, on Friday, December 13, commissioned 635 officers, who completed the 13th intake of the Police Cadet Course at the Police Training School (PTS) Gishari in Rwamagana District.
The ceremony was also attended by ministers, RNP leadership, heads of other security organs, families and friends of the graduands.
The commissioned officers include those joining Rwanda National Police (RNP), Rwanda Investigation Bureau (RIB), Rwanda Correctional Service (RCS) and National Intelligence and Security Service (NISS).
Prime Minister Ngirente highlighted the significance of training as well as other programmes conducted by the Rwanda National Police to maintain security both domestically and in international peace and security operations.
He also thanked the newly commissioned officers for making best choices, urging them to serve with pride and to make the most of the opportunity the nation has provided.
He also appreciated the families of the graduates for supporting their children to join the police force.
“Over the past 30 years, Rwanda has remained a secure country with a steadily growing economy. It is our duty to safeguard and preserve these achievements through collaboration with all stakeholders,” PM Ngirente said.
He added that security is the foundation of Rwanda’s development noting that the RNP and other security institutions in partnership with the citizenry, has continued to fulfill its responsibilities, earning the trust of Rwandans and Rwanda’s friends.
While the country’s security is generally stable, he pointed out that challenges occasionally arise, as is the case globally, which calls for vigilance and alertness.
“These challenges include cross-border crimes, drug trafficking, cybercrime, and many other issues we continue to address daily. The Rwanda National Police must adequately prepare to confront such threats, focusing on building expertise and strengthening collaboration with the citizens to ensure timely reporting of potential crimes,” PM Ngirente said.
He commended the Rwanda National Police’s human security and community development activities, which he said they reinforce national pride and self-reliance.
It was heartwarming as 320 children from the neighbouring schools showcased their parade skills, which is part of the PTS “Police of the Future” civic education programme.
The Prime Minister lauded the collaboration between the police, parents, and schools in instilling patriotic values in the youth and commended the children for their well-executed drills, a sign of their attentiveness and potential to grow into exemplary citizens.
Commissioner of Police (CP) Robert Niyonshuti, the Commandant of Police Training School, noted that the 13 months of training focused on equipping trainees with knowledge, skills, professionalism, and discipline necessary for junior officers.
The curriculum also included leadership and management, Police operations, laws, use of force and firearms, community policing, and more.
CP Niyonshuti also highlighted the continuation of the “Police of the Future” programme offered to children from neighboring primary schools during weekends and holidays to learn values, patriotism, and basic drills.
He said that these initiatives are designed to foster a generation of responsible citizens, future leaders, and capable police officers, who will serve Rwanda with dedication and integrity.
