The Afghan General Command of Police Special Units began a special police course designed specifically for female Afghan police officers, the Female Foundation Course at the Special Police Training Center in Kabul, Afghanistan, Feb. 17, 2018. Norwegian Ambassador to Afghanistan Mari Skare attended the course opening. Skare was the first Special Representative for Women, Peace and Security to the NATO Secretary General.
The Ministry of Interior specially selected six female police officers to attend the eight-week course, instructed by female police advisors from the National Mission Unit Commando Force 333.
“Afghanistan needs brave and professional people – men and women – in their police force,” Skare said. “Having police women on the force is invaluable not just because they make-up half of the Afghan population but because they bring peace and stability to the country.”
Similar to the GCPSU NMU operator course, the Female Foundations Course focuses on special police tactics and techniques, such as evidence handling, rule of law, marksmanship, and physical fitness. In addition, the female trainees receive an hour of English instruction each day.
Upon course completion, the women will serve in one of the three existing NMUs; Crisis Response Unit 222 in Kabul, Commando Force 333 in Logar, or Afghan Territorial Unit 444 in Kandahar. After service with a NMU, the female special police officers will return to the SPTC to serve as instructors for the next generation of female special police officers.
“While the course will test the woman’s strength, leadership, and character, I expect each one to pass with flying colors because they represent the best ASSF has to offer,” said a GCPSU Special Operations Advisory Group advisor