The eThekwini municipality executive committee (Exco) has approved a proposal to transform the existing Metro Police Academy in Pinetown into a state-of-the-art training facility, ensuring compliance with legislative requirements and Road Traffic Management Corporation Training (RTMC) standards.
This initiative aims to enhance service delivery, crime prevention, by-law enforcement, and traffic management through comprehensive training programmes.
According to the report at the executive sitting, the upgraded academy will feature expanded facilities, including a shooting range, parade grounds, and smart policing technology to meet the evolving demands of modern policing. Specialised training programmes in various disciplines will be introduced to enhance the effectiveness of the Durban Metro Police.
In addition to training enhancements, the facility will incorporate administrative offices for management, accommodation for trainees to promote discipline, and dining and recreational amenities.
Maintenance and security will be ensured through dedicated on-site management of cleaning, catering, and security services.
The next recruitment intake will undergo a newly mandated three-year training curriculum, as per RTMC regulations. This curriculum aims to equip recruits with specialised knowledge and skills to better address modern policing challenges, including traffic enforcement, crime prevention, and smart policing initiatives.
To fund the academy’s transformation, a service provider will be appointed through a Request for Proposal process, ensuring financial viability for the ambitious upgrade. The revamped facility is expected to significantly improve law enforcement standards and service efficiency across the city.
