Sask. Police College welcomes recruits for 90th class

(File photo)

The Saskatchewan Police College (SKPC) is welcoming 40 new recruits who represent the organization’s 90th class in its 50-year history.

Since 1974, the SKPC has provided training and education for municipal and First Nations police officers in the province.

"Congratulations to the new recruits starting their career at the Saskatchewan Police College, which celebrated its 50th anniversary in 2024," Tim McLeod, corrections, policing and public safety minister said in a news release Monday.

"The college has shaped generations of police officers and prepared more than 2,100 officers for frontline policing positions since 1974.”

Training provided at the SKPC includes communication, de-escalation, use of force techniques, comprehensive legal studies, cultural and diversity awareness in addition to officer wellness and mental health.

Initially, training for new recruits was spread over 16 weeks — but has since been extended to 21 weeks.

"As policing needs change, so does the training we provide to our recruits," Saskatchewan Police Commission Executive Director Brent Penner said in the release.

"The curriculum undergoes a thorough review process following each training class to ensure it remains relevant, effective and aligned with the needs of our communities."

In 2023 to 2024, 508 officers and 64 recruits received ongoing training at the college, with the latest class of 31 recruits graduating on Dec. 13.

The Saskatchewan Party committed $11.9 million to hire 100 new municipal police officers during its bid for re-election in the fall. To support that commitment, the SKPC will receive $2.5 million over three years to help train the new officers.