International Training Center Opens
An International Association of Chiefs of Police (IACP) training center and office was opened at the Toronto Police College to create more opportunities for police officers around the world to participate in the city’s world-class training.
“International collaboration is something I am deeply committed to,” said Toronto Police Service Chief Myron Demkiw at a ribbon cutting ceremony on February 20. “It is essential that the police service of a major city like Toronto continues to lead by example and to incorporate best practices around the world.”
The Service is a key partner in the IACP and United Arab Emirates (UAE) Ministry of Interior Police Academy Exchange Program, a strategic initiative designed to foster cross-cultural understanding, enhance professional development, and promote the exchange of best practices in policing.
Recent exchanges have included four police officers from the UAE completing the Toronto Police College and Ontario Police College cadet training programs, and three members of the Toronto Police Service graduating from the four-month basic academy program at the Abu Dhabi Police College.
“This is the first time that the Toronto Police and the Ontario Police College have hosted international students during recruit training,” said Demkiw. “We are the first Canadian agency to do so. We had one of our members graduate earlier this month in the UAE through the program. This is a mutually beneficial partnership, and I can’t overstate how great this exchange program is.”
The Service benefits from having strong partnerships with law enforcement agencies worldwide to gain insights into diverse policing strategies, cultural perspectives and the use of new technologies. It also enhances Toronto’s ability to address complex global challenges and put the city at the forefront of modern policing practices.
IACP President Ken Walker said opening the hub is exciting for the organization to share knowledge across the world.
“We really appreciate Chief Demkiw for having the vision to bring us in and start this operation,” said the retired Texas Police Chief. “It will allow us to better collaborate on training.”
