The Ghana Armed Forces Command and Staff College (GAFCSC) has conducted a matriculation ceremony for students of Senior Command and Staff Course 45 and Master of Science in Defence and International Politics (MDIP) programme at the Hamidu Hall on Thursday, September 28, 2023, in Teshie.

The matriculation ceremony signalled the commencement of the academic journey for 98 students drawn from the Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) and colleagues representing 16 allied nations.

The 11-months course is designed to equip students with the necessary skills for command and staff responsibilities, leadership roles in joint, combined, and multi-agency operations.

In his address during the matriculation,

Representing the Ghana Institute of Management and Public Administration (GIMPA) and serving as the Guest of Honour on behalf of the Rector, Dr. Appiah Yaw Marfo emphasized that students would be expected to diligently employ their critical thinking skills, and proficiently engage in research using the various techniques applicable to their coursework.

Dr Marfo emphasised that the dissertation was a pivotal component leading to the award of the Master’s Degree, therefore, he entreated students to contribute substantially to the realm of knowledge through their research endeavours to address pertinent issues in the domain of security and defence.

Furthermore, Dr. Marfo encouraged students to uphold academic integrity, steer clear of examination malpractice, drug abuse, illicit activities, and other vices that could hinder their academic progress because admission to GAFCSC is a privilege that should be cherished and not misused.

He also urged all attendees, especially civilian members of the weekend class of 2024, to embrace the military disciplinary code of conduct and take full advantage of the academic excellence offered by the college.

The matriculation ceremony was graced by the presence of high-ranking military and civilian dignitaries, including the Commandant GAFCSC, Maj Gen Irvine Nii-Ayittey Aryeetey, Brig Gen Wekite Seidu (Deputy Commandant, GAFCSC), Dr. Napoleon Kurantin (Vice Dean, GAFCSC), Chief Instructors, and Directing Staff, among others.