IGP Sellu, UNDP Assess Facilities at Police Training Academy in Hastings
The Inspector General of Police, Mr William Fayia Sellu, and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Resident Representative, Mr Frederick Ampiah, on Wednesday conducted a high-level feasibility and assessment tour of the Sierra Leone Peacekeeping and Law Enforcement Academy (SILEA) at Hastings as part of efforts to strengthen and modernise police training infrastructure.
The assessment focused on reviewing existing facilities, identifying critical gaps, and outlining priority areas for development aimed at upgrading the academy to international standards. The exercise forms part of a broader partnership between the Sierra Leone Police (SLP) and UNDP to support institutional transformation and capacity building.
During the tour, Mr Ampiah said the initiative is intended to transform SILEA into a world-class training institution aligned with global best practices. He outlined proposed improvements, including the construction of standard pavilions with VIP and sanitation facilities, paving of the drill square, and the rehabilitation and expansion of other key infrastructure across the academy.
Mr Ampiah stressed that the planned upgrades would support the SLP’s transition from a force-based approach to a more service-oriented policing model by providing officers with a modern and professional training environment.
Inspector General Sellu described the feasibility exercise as comprehensive and impactful, noting that the scope of UNDP’s proposed support demonstrates a strong commitment to strengthening the police institution. He expressed satisfaction with the outcomes of the assessment and the level of engagement during the visit.
The IGP thanked the UNDP Resident Representative and his team for the tour, adding that the findings would help provide a clearer understanding of the academy’s needs and guide future partnerships and targeted interventions.
Both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to improving SILEA’s facilities and positioning the academy as a centre of excellence for peacekeeping and law enforcement training in Sierra Leone.