SEVENTEEN Other Ranks (ORs) have completed the Guyana Defence Force’s Administrative Professional Course 2021 despite many challenges posed by COVID-19.
During a closing ceremony earlier Thursday at Headquarters Training Corps, Base Camp Stephenson, Timehri, Best Graduating Student, Lance Corporal Daceia James, and Runner up, Private Leyanna Charles, received trophies and prizes for their outstanding performance throughout the course.
The Grade Three Administrative Professional Assistant Course was conducted over a 12-week period and aimed to equip the ranks with the requisite knowledge and skills necessary to function effectively and efficiently as administrative professionals.
Officer Commanding (OC) Colonel Ulric Pilgrim Officer Cadet School (CUPOCS), Lieutenant Commander Wayne Richmond, delivered the keynote address to the new administrative professionals.

He underlined their importance to the organisation and highlighted that the skillset they bring was essential to the organisation achieving its mandate.
“Unfortunately, too often administrative professionals discount or downplay the incredible amount of wisdom, skills and abilities that they bring to the table. Eliminate the word ‘just’. Every time you introduce yourselves as ‘just’ an assistant, you set yourself up to be seen as less than a vital player in the workplace. Your roles are just as important as everyone else is in the organisation. Introduce yourselves with confidence to gain the credibility you deserve. In this incredible position, take notice of your contributions and give yourselves the credit you deserve,” he asserted.

Lt Cdr Richmond further charged the ranks to hone the skills garnered from the course and apply the knowledge at their respective units.
He also encouraged them to aspire to reach new heights.
“Hone your talents. Take the time to recognise how adaptable and flexible you are. Take risks more often. Take pride in your work and know your worth. Do not downplay yourselves or shortchange yourselves. Be diligent and execute your duties as professionally as possible,” he posited.
The ranks were drawn from several units of the Force.