At the Police Academy open day, the Slovenian police presented the diverse aspects of their education and training. A large number of young visitors were given a first-hand look at police training and the wide range of roles within the service. Through live demonstrations, attendees saw just how varied and engaging police work can be – and how the academy combines classroom learning with practical, hands-on experience to best prepare them for work in the field.
The event began on Friday afternoon with a welcome address from Director General of the Police, Damjan PetriÄŤ, and Minister for the Interior, Branko Zlobko. Addressing the audience, PetriÄŤ encouraged young people to consider the profession, noting, "Once you put the blue uniform on, you usually never take it off again."
Both speakers highlighted that studying at the Police College, specialised higher vocational school within the Police Academy, is well suited to those who wish to acquire a range of practical skills, are open to new experiences, and are looking for a career with a strong sense of purpose. Policing, they stressed, is more than just a job – it is a vocation dedicated to protecting people and supporting communities, a truly noble pursuit.
Ivan Celestina, Principal of the Police College, also addressed prospective applicants, pointing out a key benefit of the two-year training programme: recruits are employed throughout their studies, receive a salary, and have their time in education counted towards their length of service.
In addition to detailed information about education and training, visitors gained valuable insight into the diversity of police work and the wide range of career opportunities within the Slovenian police. Following an introductory presentation, guests toured the academy's facilities, including lecture rooms, the martial arts hall and the gym.
Current cadets helped guide the tour, sharing their own experiences and answering numerous questions. Police officers from a range of police directorates and units were also available to answer questions and present their equipment.
Visitors were particularly drawn to outdoor displays featuring an armoured vehicle, patrol cars, a police motorbike, service horses and dogs, as well as a flypast by a police helicopter.
At the info point, staff from human resources and the academy provided further guidance and answered additional queries. Representatives of both police trade unions were also present, offering information on their efforts to ensure proper employment rights and favourable social and working conditions.
