Police training (Part II)
IN LAST week’s column, we looked at training conducted in the Investigation and Detection of Crime. This week we will conclude what was done in other areas of the comprehensive training programme that was successfully delivered by The Emergency Group. Information Management
Under this programme, four components were undertaken. The first was with participants who were exposed to basic computer competency. At another level, there was MicroSoft Office training for police professionals. This was designed to upgrade working efficiency by using commonly available MS Office software applications. Emphasis was placed on data gathering and informational analysis in a policing environment, including techniques for analysis, sharing, and presentation.
This phase of the training also focused on the use of Information Technology in crime analysis that would allow police leaders to develop information based crime reduction strategies.

Recruit Training & Case Management
Much of the professional output of the Guyana Police Force (GPF) lies with recruits and the quality of training applied.  One key area was effectively dealing with people. The programme was designed to promote the use of more effective ways to interact with others on a routine basis, as well as to cope under stressful and emotional conditions. Other areas include enhanced communications skills, effective problem solving, the use of discretion, multi-cultural diversity and human dignity.
Recruits are now being introduced to the basics of putting together an effective case file, which includes recognising and establishing the elements of a crime, identifying meaningful evidence, and organising witness, victim and statements. These are aimed at a high level of efficiency and effectiveness of the investigative process which would lead to an increase in successful prosecutions. 
Through the training, police officers are now better equipped to prepare cases for prosecution and moving them forward and through the criminal justice system. It presented ‘best practice’ techniques which includes leads to follow and which cases to target for additional attention.

Cultural & Ethnic Diversity
Guyana is well known for its ethnic make-up and cultural mix as well as the tolerance for these characteristics. It is natural therefore for the GPF, as one of the principal agencies to ensure peace and harmony prevails, exercise and be exposed to the necessary level of cultural sensitivity and awareness. A significant part of the training was dedicated to achieving an increase in public support and trust and strategies for increasing public cooperation to identify and report possible criminal activities. Other areas dealt with include conflict mediation, community-based problem solving and teambuilding.
The training needs and modules were designed in close consultation with senior officials of the Citizen Security Programme and the GPF. It was executed by The Emergence Group over a one year period with a team of international law enforcement experts. For sustainability in the long term, a Train-the-Trainers approach was employed.