From September 2 to 25, 2025, the William J. Perry Center for Hemispheric Defense Studies hosted the Defense Education Pedagogy (DEP) course, a four-week virtual program directed by Perry Center Professor Dr. Luis Bitencourt, with contributions from Visiting Professor Major (ret.) George Benson, the former Director Principal of the Caribbean Regional Drug Law Enforcement Centre (REDTRAC). The course convened invited military, police, and civilian professionals engaged in defense and security education, bringing together participants from partner nations across the Caribbean.

DEP examined the distinctive nature of defense education, highlighting its role in balancing discipline with critical thinking in support of state modernization and institutional development. Through synchronous and asynchronous sessions and group discussions, participants evaluated the comparative strengths of virtual, in-person, and hybrid learning environments while applying modern curriculum development principles to meet the evolving demands of the defense sector.

Through discussions, case studies, and group activities, participants examined how emerging strategic requirements such as governance, technological change, and institutional adaptation are being integrated into defense education. The program moved beyond theory, encouraging participants to compare national and regional approaches, reflect on strategy and futures studies as teaching models, assess the strengths of virtual, in-person, and hybrid methodologies, and apply innovative pedagogy to strengthen professional military education and drive the modernization of defense institutions.

The Perry Center congratulates the graduates of DEP 2025 and extends its appreciation to Dr. Bitencourt, as well as the faculty and staff whose contributions ensured the success of this course.