GPF supports students with school supplies ahead of new school term

The Guyana Police Force (GPF) has stepped up its efforts to support children, families, and young people ahead of the new school term, with Police divisions and community partners distributing backpacks and school supplies while 47 students recently completed the force’s work-study programme.
On Friday, Regional Police Division No. 2 distributed backpacks and school supplies to children across the division as part of its back-to-school initiative.
The activity was led by Regional Police Divisional Commander Senior Superintendent Khemraj Shivbaran, Assistant Superintendent N. Lall, Sergeants from the Anna Regina and Aurora Police Stations and the Onderneeming Sand Pit Police Outpost; as well as members of the Divisional Community Relations Department (CRD).
Children from Onderneeming, Good Hope, Bush Lot, Queenstown, Anna Regina, Sparta, Lima and Henrietta were among the recipients.
Youths from the Division’s Youth Groups also benefited from the initiative.
The backpacks contained books, pencils, erasers and other school supplies intended to assist the children as they prepare for the new school term.
Meanwhile, a separate Back-to-School Drive was conducted by Assistant Superintendent T Williams-Singh, assisted by Inspectors O Hicks, Devira and A Forde of the Brickdam Police Station, on Thursday.

The initiative catered to ranks posted to the Traffic, Criminal Investigation Department (CID) and General Duty sections, as well as ranks working at various Police stations and outposts within Police Regional Division No. 1.
During the initiative, backpacks and other school supplies were distributed to subordinates responsible for various stations and outposts, who will in turn distribute the items to children of ranks under their command.
According to the GPF, the initiative is geared towards helping the children of ranks prepare for the new school term and ensuring that they have the necessary supplies for the upcoming academic year.
The GPF said it will continue to support its ranks and facilitate initiatives aimed at assisting their families.
A back-to-school initiative organised by ranks of the Traffic Department of Regional Police Division No. 2, in partnership with the Anna Regina Road Safety Council (ARRSC), was also successfully held on Tuesday.
The initiative saw backpacks being distributed to children from communities around Devonshire Castle Old Road and Lima Scheme, as well as children attending Hampton Court Primary School.

Work-study programme
Meanwhile, 47 students from 16 schools across Guyana and the Guyana Industrial Training Centre (GITC) have successfully completed the GPF’s work-study programme.
The programme, conducted in collaboration with the Ministry of Education, commenced on Monday, June 22, 2026, and concluded on Friday, August 28, 2026, with a graduation ceremony celebrating the students’ achievements.
Cardel Adonis of GITC delivered the welcome address, while prayers were offered by Jaden Hameed and Sakinah Dowridge of Richard Ishmael Secondary School and Hemraj Eshwar of Houston Secondary School.
Throughout the programme, participants gained valuable hands-on experience in several departments and branches of the force. They were exposed to administration, records management, technical operations, transportation and workshop activities, welding and computer skills. Several students also received training at the Zara Computer Centre.
The participants were further exposed to areas relating to the welfare and professional development of Police ranks, providing them with a broader understanding of the force’s operations and the importance of supporting those who serve.
Delivering remarks, Director of the GPF Academy, Senior Superintendent Sonia Herbert, encouraged the students to embrace every opportunity and use their experiences as a foundation for their future.
“Every experience can help to shape the person you become. Never be afraid to dream big. Strive to outdo yourself,” she said, while urging the students to be punctual, respectful and disciplined.
She also encouraged the students to remain kind and respectful towards their peers and elders and to have faith in the journey ahead.
Superintendent Jewel Sullivan, Second-in-Charge of administration, described the programme as an investment in Guyana’s future leaders.
She highlighted the importance of diversity, determination and commitment in building a better Guyana and challenged the students to move forward confidently, carry their dreams boldly and work diligently towards their goals.
The ceremony also featured contributions from several students. Delia Isaacs of Charlestown Secondary School and Halene Frank of Tucville Secondary School reflected on their experiences and the skills they gained during the programme.
The programme underscores the GPF’s commitment to supporting youth development and reinforces the belief that, when provided with meaningful opportunities, young people can develop the skills, confidence and discipline needed to become productive citizens and future leaders.
Lekisha July of South Ruimveldt Secondary School delivered the vote of thanks, while the ceremony was moderated by Queen’s College student Naiomi Griffith.