Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has unveiled an ambitious modernization plan for Pakistan’s National Police Academy, aiming to transform law enforcement training, fight terrorism more effectively, and improve the delivery of justice nationwide. The initiative includes new infrastructure, international training opportunities, and updated academic programs designed to bring Pakistan’s police force up to global standards.
During an address to officers in training at the academy, Prime Minister Shehbaz reaffirmed the government’s commitment to enhancing law enforcement capabilities in the ongoing battle against terrorism. He emphasized that police must remain steadfast in their core mission of protecting lives, safeguarding property, and ensuring justice for all citizens. “Our armed forces and law enforcement personnel are determined to root out terrorism,” he said.
Key elements of the modernization plan include building an elite training school in Islamabad, establishing a dedicated firing range, improving hostel accommodations, and launching international training exchanges. The Prime Minister announced that officers will participate in a month-long advanced training module in China, allowing them to learn best practices and modern policing techniques. These efforts, he said, are intended to align the academy’s training and infrastructure with international benchmarks.
Prime Minister Shehbaz also highlighted the legacies of his previous initiatives as Chief Minister of Punjab, referencing the establishment of the Elite Police Force, Safe City Projects, Counter Terrorism Department, and the creation of Pakistan’s first forensic laboratory in Lahore—all critical steps in combating terrorism at its height.
Joined by Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi, Information Minister Attaullah Tarar, and State Minister Talal Chaudhry, the Prime Minister inaugurated major new projects at the academy, including a state-of-the-art firing range and expanded hostel facilities. He also distributed laptops to trainee officers to support their educational needs.
Interior Minister Naqvi recounted the academy’s poor condition when he first visited it a year ago, describing it as a neglected “dumping station.” He revealed that the revitalized academy will soon offer Master’s degree programs and establish partnerships with international organizations, including the United Nations. The curriculum will be expanded to feature courses in cybercrime, criminology, and modern policing methods. To attract top-tier trainers, the academy also plans to offer competitive salaries.
Prime Minister Shehbaz paid tribute to law enforcement officers who have died in the line of duty, calling them “national pride” for their ultimate sacrifices. He directed that cadets from Gilgit-Baltistan be included under the training quotas and commended the dedication of participants from across Pakistan’s provinces, including Punjab, Sindh, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Balochistan, and Azad Jammu and Kashmir.
The comprehensive overhaul is expected to significantly boost the operational effectiveness and professionalism of Pakistan’s law enforcement agencies, reinforcing their ability to maintain security and uphold the rule of law.
