Accra: The Ghana Armed Forces Command and Staff College (GAFCSC) celebrated the graduation of its 83rd batch of the Junior Staff Course (JSC) in a ceremony held at Hamidu Hall in Teshie, Accra. The event marked the successful completion of the Defence and Security Studies Course by 76 officers, including 68 from the Ghana Armed Forces, four from the Nigerian Armed Forces, three from the Botswana Defence Forces, and one from the Armed Forces of Liberia. Additionally, a civilian employee from the GAF Intelligence Unit also graduated.
According to Ghana News Agency, Brigadier General Mike Akpatsu Junior (Retired), who served as the guest of honour, highlighted the significance of the course in expanding the security knowledge of young officers. He noted that the training provided them with essential skills to address national and international security challenges. Brig. Gen. Akpatsu Jnr remarked, "There is no doubt that the knowledge you have gained will put you in a better position to appreciate and effectively manage the multidimensional challenges that you are bound to face in your careers."
The retired commandant urged the graduates to remain committed to problem-solving and to respect the training of their personnel. He emphasized the importance of administration and welfare in their roles as future commanders. Brig. Gen. Akpatsu Jnr called on the officers to use their newly acquired knowledge and skills to tackle terrorism and insecurity in Africa, encouraging them to find innovative solutions to these pressing issues.
He further advised, "I urge you, as professional military officers, to always remain vigilant and well-prepared to effectively tackle any challenges you may face in your future endeavours."
During the ceremony, awards were presented to officers who excelled in the course. Captain T.K. Oklu of the Ghana Army received the Overall Best Student Award. Flight Lieutenant K.O. Saani of the Nigerian Air Force was honoured with both the Best Allied Student and Best Assistant Commandants Paper Awards, while Squadron Leader Karl Atsu Olagboye of the Ghana Air Force received the Evarad Award.
