The Jungle Warfare School (JWS) has held a closing ceremony for the Southern Command Basic Non-Tactical Course (BNTC) 1-24 on Friday 13 September 2024, at Akim Achiase in the Eastern Region.

The 5-week jungle phase of BNTC 1-24 culminated in the 12-week course, designed to equip personnel with jungle warfare tactics, develop leadership skills at the lower level, and provide them with opportunities to plan and execute exercises and operations at various command levels commensurate with their ranks and appointments.

In his closing remarks, the Command Operations Officer (COO) of Headquarters Southern Command, Colonel (Col) Emmanuel Appiah, on behalf of the General Officer Commanding (GOC), Brigadier General Samuel Yeboah Asare, highlighted the critical role of Non-Commissioned Officers (NCOs) as the backbone of any armed forces. He stated, “Throughout this course, you have been trained to make quick decisions under pressure, think tactically, and ensure that every action you take aligns with the mission at hand.”

Col Appiah also emphasised the values of leadership that were instilled in the students, which would help them thrive in their careers. “Leadership is not just about giving orders but also about earning the trust and respect of your subordinates. The ability to lead by example, inspire others through your actions, and keep your team cohesive and focused, even in the most challenging circumstances, is what will set you apart from your colleagues,” he said.

He urged the students to be worthy ambassadors of the course, reminding them that the knowledge and skills gained at JWS were not only for personal benefit but for the safety and success of those under their command.

Col Appiah congratulated Private Awengula Ibn-Akurugu for placing first on the course, as well as all the students for their achievements. He also commended the instructors for their selfless dedication, professionalism, and commitment to ensuring the course ended successfully.

In total, 50 Non-Commissioned Officers (NCOs) from the Ghana Army participated in the course, which enabled them to master jungle tactics and skills for both jungle and conventional missions across the globe.