After a rigorous six weeks intensive training at the 1st Infantry Battalion (1BN) in Michel Camp, 149 Security Trainees of the Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority (GPHA) have passed out on Friday, 22 December 2023.

Addressing the parade, the Guest of Honour and the Reviewing Officer, Director of Port-Tema, Mrs Sandra Opoku was grateful to the Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) for accepting to train the personnel of the Security Department. She indicated that over the six weeks period, the trainees undertook foot drill, physical training, swimming, communication skills, general security duties, first aid, leadership training and report writing.

Mrs Sandra Opoku stated that security personnel play an important role in port activities by keeping the port safe and secured at all times. She stated that the training was crucial to the enforcement of port security as maritime cargoes and vessel were being targeted globally by conspirators, smugglers and terrorists.

She outlined the duties and responsibilities of the security personnel which includes protecting the ports, lives and properties from both external and internal threats; prevention and detection of crime and apprehension of offenders; enforcement of rules and regulations governing the operation of the port.

Mrs Opoku advised the graduands to serve with honour, dignity, courage, integrity and show allegiance to what was right and conform to the code of conduct of the Authority.

Awards were presented to some deserving trainees.  Trainee Mabifam Martin won the Overall Best award in drill and physical training. Trainee Ohene Emmanuel was awarded the best in Academics, while trainee Naya Naomi adjudged the Best Female Trainee.

Present at the parade were Port Security Manager, Colonel (Col) Benjamin Boamah, Director 851 EOD, Col Gasper Asare, Commander Rear, 1BN, Lieutenant (Lt) Col Frank Adams, CO ARTS, Lt Col Issah Yakubu Adams and HR for GPHA Security, Mrs Florence Hagan.