MEDIA RELEASE: UWI Five Islands and Royal Antigua and Barbuda Police Force sign MOU to Enhance Policing Capabilities

The University of the West Indies Five Islands (UWI FIC) and the Royal Antigua and Barbuda Police Force (RABPF) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) aimed at strengthening the capacity and capabilities of the police force.

The signing ceremony took place on Monday 26th August 2024 at the Ministry of Justice and Legal Affairs.

The MOU establishes a framework for collaboration between the two institutions, focusing on improving the education, technical abilities, and leadership skills of police officers.

By working together, The UWI Five Islands and the Royal Antigua and Barbuda Police Force aim to address the evolving challenges of modern policing and better serve communities across Antigua and Barbuda.

Principal of The UWI Five Islands, Professor C. Justin Robinson, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership, stating, “Today’s signing marks a pivotal moment for both The University of the West Indies Five Islands Campus and the Royal Antigua and Barbuda Police Force.

This MOU is more than just a document; it represents our commitment to fostering a safer and more informed society. By equipping our police officers with the latest knowledge, skills, and leadership capabilities, we are taking significant strides towards a more effective and responsive law enforcement body.”

He also stated that the campus will welcome its first cohort of students in its Bachelor of Criminology and Criminal Justice programme which includes several police officers from the RABPF.

Minister of Legal Affairs, Public Safety and Labour , Hon. Sir Steadroy ‘Cutie’ Benjamin emphasized the importance of the MOU, noting, “The collaboration between our police force and The University of the West Indies Five Islands Campus is a testament to our dedication to improving national security. This partnership will provide our officers with invaluable resources and training, ensuring they are well-prepared to meet the demands of modern policing. We are confident that this initiative will lead to enhanced safety and security for our communities.”

The MOU will go into immediate effect with the institutions establishing a schedule and implementing several courses and workshops to enhance police training.

Through the MOU, the RABPF will be able to utilize The UWI Five Islands courses of study for professional development using the intellectual property, an advanced technical platform and technical support of UWI to enhance and train its officers.