Eight Hundred and Eighteen (818) recruits of the Basic Infantry Training Course 2-2023 (BITC 2- 2023) have passed out from the Army Recruits Training School (ARTS) Shai Hills on Friday 2 February, 2024.

Originally, Eight Hundred and Thirty-Three (833) recruits reported for the training, but four were released on medical grounds, two on lack of interest in the training, seven on disciplinary grounds and two of them died during the training.

The Reviewing Officer, Deputy Chief of Staff Officer, Administration Army Headquarters, Brigadier General Emmanuel Acheampong Baidoo, described the occasion as momentous said the trainees were taken through a comprehensive military training which covered physical training, tactics, weapon training, drill, military law, map reading, field craft, and first aid.

He cautioned them against behaviours that have the tendency to drag the image of the Ghana Armed Forces into disrepute and urged them to stay clear of trouble since disciplinary action would be taken against those found culpable in accordance with the Law.  

He spoke against the disturbing trend of young soldiers getting involved in disciplinary cases which was hitherto unheard of in the Ghana Armed Forces and reminded them that the Ghana Armed Forces has carved an indelible mark of honour and respect for itself, both internal and on global stage, as a result of professionalism, discipline, self-sacrifice, commitment, integrity, and respect for rule of law.

The Reviewing Officer advised them to remain apolitical in order not to get entangled with the complex web of politics, noting that while it was important to be aware of the world around them and engage in civic duties, it was equally important to maintain focus on their primary responsibility and serve with honour and dedication.

Brigadier General Baidoo said Political affiliations have the potential to create divisions within the service, but as members of a united force, it was imperative to rise above divisive ideologies.

He also urged them to stay clear of religious or ethnocentric strife and embrace the richness of diverse cultures and religions, accord each other respect irrespective of gender in order to bread esprit de corps.

Brig Gen Baidoo commended the Commanding Officer and all stakeholders for their dedication in training the recruits.

Special awards were presented to recruits who distinguished themselves during the training. Recruit Ofosuhene Priscilla was adjudged the best female recruit. Recruit Tetteh Peter was best in drill. Best in physical training awards went to Recruits Nlamani Tignan Samuel and Adamu Asana. Recruit Suara Luri Ishmael won the best in tactics award while Recruit Tandoh Evans was best in academics.

Recruit Asante Samuel Pipim was adjudged the overall best recruit on the course and Kamina Company emerged the best Company.