The Ghana Armed Forces Command and Staff College (GAFCSC) has conducted a joint graduation ceremony for the Senior Command and Staff Course 45 (SCSC 45) and the Master of Science in International Politics (MDIP) Weekend Class of 2024 on Friday 23 August 2024 in Teshie, Accra.

The Vice President of Ghana and Chairman of the Armed Forces Council, HE Alhaji Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, in his keynote address called on the graduating students to maintain the highest standards of professionalism in discharging their duties. He underscored that the government's trust in the Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) is contingent on their unwavering integrity, dedication, and impartiality.

Dr Bawumia highlighted GAF's esteemed reputation as one of Africa's premier Armed Forces, citing its significant contributions to global peace through United Nations operations. He attributed this reputation to the valour and performance of Ghanaian peacekeepers and the academic excellence fostered by the College. Acknowledging the evolving nature of global security threats, the Vice President emphasized adapting to modern challenges.

He praised the introduction of the Multi-Domain Operations Module in the College’s curriculum, which equips graduates with the latest knowledge and skills for addressing contemporary security issues. He mentioned that the College has maintained a high standard learning environment with requisite facilities despite numerous constraints to absorb the growing number of students. He congratulated the award recipients and thanked the Chairman of the Control Board, the Military High Command, and all those involved in the success of the ceremony.

The Commandant of GAFCSC, Major General Matthew Essien, reported that the military component of the course had effectively prepared students to tackle the complex security issues facing Ghana, Africa, and the world. He announced the addition of a Master of Science in Security Studies to the College’s academic offerings, as well as the upcoming launch of a PhD programme in Defence and International Politics next month. This new programme is expected to attract participants from the military, sister security services, local government authorities, the private sector, and the media.

In all 98 military officers participated, of which 30 were Allied students including 36 MDIP class of 2024. Awards were presented to outstanding students, Maj E Kuudogrme was recognised as the Honor Graduate. Maj Kuudogrme, Lt Cdr Osei Ananso and Sqn Ldr Dawson-Ahmooah received the Service Chief’s Awards. Additional accolades included the Best Allied Student Award to Sqn Ldr US Brown, the Most Improved Student to Maj SAF Apata, and the Everard Award to Maj M Osman. Maj EK Gamor was honoured as the Best MDIP Student, while Mr Nuhu Alhassan Dicko earned the Overall Best MDIP Class of 2024 Award and the Best MDIP Dissertation.