The Joint Forces College (JFC) located within the PNG Deference Force (PNGDF) Igam, Barracks in Lae, Morobe province is now technically recognized as a University for the educating and training members of the three(3) disciplinary forces in the country. The PNG Deference Force (PNGDF), PNG Royal Constabulary Police Force, and PNG Correctional Services. This was announced by the current Minister for Correctional Services and the MP for Sumkar Open Electorate in Madang province when officiating the graduation of the 3rd Batch of Cadets on Friday 6th of November 2020.
The 3rd Batch graduation had a total of 36 Cadets. Nine Correctional Services Officers and 27 PNG Army Cadets.
Joint Forces College (JFC) Act 2020 Bill
According to the Minister, the Joint Forces College (JFC Act 2020) bill passed in the August 2020 sitting of the PNG National Parliament means the Joint Forces College is now set to become a fully functional institution offering diverse number of programs for the members of the three forces.
Programs Structure for the Joint Forces College.
It was announced that for the programs, a technical working group would be established to work with the Department of Higher Education, Research, Science and Technology (DHERST) and with the Universities within the country to put a suitable program to be taught at the college. It will be the working committee that will draft the college policies, establish the organizational structure and other structures needed to operate the college.
Current Training of Cadets in the three forces
Currently, the recruitment and training is centralized with the PNG Defense Force (PNGDF) training army cadets at its Goldie River Training Depot while PNG Police Force and Correctional Services cadets undergo training at Bomana Police College. Both training centers are located in the National Capital District, where capital city Port Moresby is located.
Cadet Recruitment drive is through public media advertisements calling for interested young men and women who are interested to apply to go through the Cadet Training Programs for each of the forces.
With the Joint Forces College (JFC) in place, this arrangement is likely to change and future Cadets will be under go full programs and training there.
This is a major development that will surely benefit the members of the security forces in the country and provision of national security in PNG.
Joint Forces College Location
The Joint Forces College (JFC) is located inside the PNG Defense Force Igam Barracks in Lae, Morobe Province.