By Duncan Mnisi
Nationwide – In a significant milestone, the South African Police Service (SAPS) celebrated the graduation of 1,918 new police constables during simultaneous passing-out ceremonies held across the country on Friday.
The largest group—849 constables—graduated at the SAPS Academy in Bhisho, Eastern Cape. Other ceremonies took place in Mankwe (North West, 286), Bishop Lavis (Western Cape, 222), Moloto (Mpumalanga, 201), and Ulundi (KwaZulu-Natal, 145).
The ceremonies were attended by senior SAPS leadership, including Acting Police Minister Professor Feroz Cachalia, National Commissioner General Fannie Masemola, and Deputy Minister of Police Dr. Polly Boshielo, reflecting a nationwide commitment to strengthening law enforcement.
The graduates completed the Introductory Police Development Learning Programme, gaining skills in criminology, forensic investigation, law enforcement, and community policing.
They will be deployed to 30 police stations with the highest crime rates, bolstering SAPS’s frontline capacity in high-need areas.
Minister Cachalia described the moment as “more than just numbers,” calling the officers “symbols of hope and resilience.” Acting Deputy National Commissioner Lieutenant General Lineo Nkhua urged the constables to “serve with integrity and pride” as they begin their duties.
Families and communities celebrated proudly as the graduates marched in formation, demonstrating the discipline and dedication instilled during months of training.
Social media lit up with hashtags honouring the achievement, reflecting widespread public support.
This graduation not only marks the personal triumph of each officer but also reinforces South Africa’s determination to build a stronger, more effective police service—one officer at a time.
