The William J. Perry Center for Hemispheric Defense Studies, in collaboration with the National Defence Institute (NDI) of Guyana, commenced a one-week training course on Monday at the Police Training Center in Georgetown. The programme, titled “Security and Defense Policy,” aims to provide participants with comprehensive insights into key security issues.

Dr. Randolph Persaud, Director of the National Defence Institute, highlighted that the course will address a broad range of topics, including civil-military relations, maritime security, crisis management, emerging technology and critical infrastructure, human rights, and procurement. The training consists of lectures, table-top exercises, and open discussions to enhance practical understanding and strategic thinking.
Dr. David Spencer serves as the course director, supported by a distinguished faculty from the Perry Center, including Professors Celina Realuyo, Col. (Ret’d) Glyne Grannum of Barbados, and Dr. Román D. Ortiz. Additionally, Dr. Randolph Persaud (NDI) and Lt. Col. Jose Ferreira (GDF) are contributing as faculty members.

A total of thirty-nine participants from various security agencies, including the Guyana Defence Force (GDF), Guyana Police Force (GPF), Customs Anti-Narcotics Unit (CANU), Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA), the Prison Service, and the Guyana Fire Service, are engaged in the training.
The course was officially opened by Col. Sheldon Howell, Chairman of the NDI Board, who encouraged participants to maximize their learning experience from the internationally recognized Perry Center faculty. He emphasized the program’s mission to educate and equip joint services officers and civilian counterparts with the skills necessary to protect Guyana’s national interests.

Assistant Director of the NDI, Dr. Levius, who chaired the opening session, reminded attendees of the Mastermind Alliance principle, stating, “No one can become a permanent success without taking others with them.”
The training course is scheduled to conclude on February 7th.