Officers urged to pursue lifelong learning
The President of the Open University of Hong Kong (OUHK), Professor John Leong Chi-yan, encouraged officers who marched out from the Hong Kong Police College on July 8 to pursue lifelong learning and continue to improve themselves by learning from experience.
Reviewing the passing-out parade, Prof Leong said the officers, comprising 10 probationary inspectors and 179 recruit constables, had all made a wise decision to join the Force because it was a principled workforce that conducted itself in a fair, upright and professional manner and had gained the trust and appreciation of the public.
"The professional training you have received will definitely arm you with confidence to continue with the fine traditions of the Force.
"Like those who have gone before you, you are in a position to serve our community as guardians of public order and security, without fear or favour," he said.
Prof Leong pointed out that the recruits had taken the first step in their police career after successfully completing the foundation training in the Police College and obtaining a recognised professional qualification in policing.
Noting that the officers had passed their training courses with flying colours, he said their achievements had laid a solid foundation for the collaboration between the Force and OUHK, adding that it signalled the birth of a new generation of Police officers who were well versed in letters and fully armed in strength.
With the opening of the Police College in January, a brand new Recruit Police Constables Foundation Training Course was rolled out. The 179 recruit constables were the first batch trained under the 27-week programme.
The new foundation-training course is vocational-oriented, with training in law, police procedures and other duties to ensure that new recruits are better prepared for more effective policing. To enhance the personal effectiveness of Police officers, the Force has provided new elements, including Psychology in Policing and Social Studies in Policing, in collaboration with OUHK.
Upon successful completion of the new training programme, trainees will be awarded a "Certificate in Law Enforcement and Security Management" by the university.
The objective of this arrangement is to help promote lifelong learning among Force members for continuous improvement of quality at personal and organisational levels. It is hoped that these training initiatives would contribute to maintaining the status of the Force as one of the best police forces in the world.
Prof Leong inspecting the recruits at the Police College