“Your contributions save lives” – Lieutenant Colonel tells GDF’s warrant officers

The Guyana Defence Force (GDF) has launched its Warrant Officers’ Development Programme, aimed at strengthening the leadership and management capabilities of senior non-commissioned officers within the military.
Ten members of the Warrant Officer cadre have enrolled in the three-week programme, which is part of the GDF’s ongoing efforts to develop professional and adaptive leaders across the organisation.
According to the GDF in a social media post, the initiative is designed to enhance the competencies of some of its most experienced senior leaders, recognising the critical role warrant officers play as mentors, advisors, and custodians of military standards. Their responsibilities include maintaining discipline, supporting operational readiness, and contributing to the overall effectiveness of the force.
Training will be facilitated by a team of retired warrant officers, including former force sergeant majors and warrant officers class one Raul Rodney and William Richmond.
At the opening of the programme, Commanding Officer (ag) of the Training Corps, Lieutenant Colonel Drumson McCaulay, underscored the importance of continuous learning and professional development in military leadership.
He told participants that modern military leaders are required to possess not only technical expertise but also critical thinking skills, sound judgement, and the ability to adapt to changing operational demands.
Lt Col McCaulay also highlighted the influence of warrant officers on organisational culture and standards, noting that their contributions extend beyond their formal appointments and play a direct role in maintaining operational readiness.
“Your efforts count; your contributions save lives and maintain the standards of this organisation,” he said.
Participants were encouraged to use the programme as an opportunity to strengthen their leadership abilities and improve their capacity to mentor and guide junior ranks.
Over the next three weeks, the officers will participate in training covering leadership, management, accountability, military systems, policies, procedures, and protocol. The curriculum includes facilitated discussions, practical exercises, case studies, and collaborative learning activities.
The GDF said the programme reflects its commitment to professional military education and leadership development, with continued investment in senior non-commissioned leaders expected to support the Force’s operational effectiveness and future leadership needs.