As Jamaica continues to grapple with the persistent underperformance of boys in school, the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) is offering an alternative path that combines academics, discipline, and mentorship to help young men find their footing.

The JCF Cadet Academy, established in September 2021, was born out of the police force’s experience working with young people through its Safe Schools Programme and other youth initiatives where cops observed particular challenges among boys, including truancy.

Speaking on the JCF’s Force4Good podcast, principal of the academy Deputy Superintendent of Police Tanecia Johnson said the force recognised the need for a setting where it could provide more focused support to young men.