The Guyana Prison Service (GPS) has strengthened its operational and training capacity following the successful completion of a five-day Defence and Arrest Tactics Instructor Course conducted in partnership with the ASMA Security Training Academy. According to the GPS, the programme, which was accredited by Defence Technology, was designed to enhance the operational competence and instructional capability of prison officers. During the course, participants received training in the use of force and report writing, tactical communication, Management of Defensive Tactics Systems (MDTS), Mechanical Emergency Breaching (MEB), HIATT handcuffing procedures, the deployment of Oleoresin Capsicum (OC) spray and Conducted Energy Weapons (CEWs), as well as instructor methodology and best practices. At the end of the programme, four prison officers, Roylex Holder, Keshon Henry, Colwyn Thompson, and Aklem Alexander, were certified as instructors. Six others, Devon James, Roy Lancaster, Kelvin Mingo, Akeem James, Erwin Mentore, and Lincoln Persaud, received certification as operators. Speaking at the closing ceremony on Friday at the Prison Headquarters, programme trainer Dr Oluyemi Mashama, a Certified Instructor Trainer in Advanced Defence Technology, said the internationally certified programme goes beyond recertification by reinforcing professional standards, aligning participants with modern correctional practices and preparing instructors to train others safely, ethically and effectively. Deputy Director of Prisons Kevin Pilgrim said the training would boost officers’ confidence in carrying out their duties while improving safety and security for both inmates and staff. He also reminded the newly certified officers of the importance of exercising sound judgement when applying the skills they had acquired. Director of Prisons Nicklon Elliot underscored the value of continuous training within the prison service, noting that more officers, including women, should be encouraged to participate in similar programmes to strengthen the service’s response to incidents and enhance workplace safety. Elliot also told participants that the Government of Guyana will continue investing in technology and non-lethal equipment to support prison officers in performing their duties safely and in keeping with modern correctional best practices. He congratulated the officers on attaining their international certification.