The General Directorate of the Revolutionary National Police (DGPNR) has issued an open call for young individuals interested in training to become police officers. This announcement was shared on Facebook by the institutional page "Heroes in Blue in Cuba."
This initiative offers a Basic Police Training Course lasting six months, which integrates both theoretical and practical instruction. Upon completion, participants would be promoted to the rank of sub-officer and would have the opportunity to pursue further professional development courses.
The training includes specializations such as motorcycle agent, patrol car driver, provincial police brigade, video surveillance observer, and railway officer. In addition, a Higher Intermediate Police Course is available, spanning 11 months and divided into two six-month phases.
This advanced program incorporates subjects like Law and offers a 15-day vacation after each semester. Graduates would achieve the rank of sub-lieutenant and could enroll in a Law degree at Police university sites without needing to pass an entrance exam.
Key positions associated with this training include criminal investigator, public security officer, and case officer.
To be eligible for enrollment, the DGPNR requires candidates to have an acceptable social conduct, pass medical and psychological exams, be high school or technical school graduates, and be between the ages of 18 and 35. Training will take place at the "Martyrs of Tarará" Police Academy in Playa, Havana, as well as at DGPNR selection offices in the Plaza de la Revolución.
The announcement sparked a variety of reactions from the public. Some comments showed institutional support and pride, while others were critical, with remarks like "You have to be crazy" and "The police deficit will never be solved in this country due to poor working conditions, housing, shelter, food at the shelters, and low salaries." Users also raised concerns about the working conditions and the profession's impact on community relations.
Despite mixed opinions, some individuals expressed direct interest in the program, leaving comments such as "I'm interested," "I'm interested in the course," and "Hello, I'm interested in the course, can someone help me join?" indicating that the initiative has garnered attention from some young people.
The Ministry of the Interior's call comes at a time when there is a noticeable shortage of officers on the streets, a rise in crime, and increasing public disapproval of the regime's repressive forces. While official rhetoric portrays police work as a cornerstone of "the people's well-being," many Cubans challenge the harsh working conditions, low pay, and the Revolutionary National Police's role in daily repression and social control, factors that deter many youths from pursuing this career.
Understanding Cuba’s Police Recruitment and Public Response
What is the duration of the Basic Police Training Course in Cuba?
The Basic Police Training Course lasts six months and includes both theoretical and practical training.
What qualifications are needed to join the police training in Cuba?
Applicants must have appropriate social behavior, pass medical and psychological assessments, be high school or technical school graduates, and be aged between 18 and 35.
Why are some Cubans critical of the police recruitment drive?
Critics point to the poor working conditions, low salaries, and the police's role in repression and social control as reasons for skepticism towards the recruitment initiative.