Regular Career Course (RCC) 43 and Short Service Commission/Special Duties Course (SSC/SD) 42 have handed over an unarmed combat pit to the Ghana Military Academy (GMA) on Wednesday 30 October 2024.

The gesture forms part of the Intake’s 20-year anniversary celebration since they were commissioned into the Ghana Armed Forces (GAF).

The 26-meter square Combat Pit, christened “The Battle Box 43/42,” has 3 spectator sheds for training and recreational activities, such as taekwondo, karate, judo and aikido. The edifice embodied the Intake’s contribution to the Academy’s mission of developing all rounded and highly capable officers for GAF. 

The Guest of Honour for the ceremony, Rear Admiral (R/Adm) Mohammed Muniru Tahiru (Rtd), in his remarks, extolled officers of RCC 43 and SSC/SD 42 for their vision and supporting a worthy cause of giving back to their alma mater. He noted that the facility would greatly benefit cadets in their training since physical fitness and mental endurance are essential qualities a leader must possess. He advised cadets not to see physical training as punishment and urged them to stay committed to achieving higher laurels in their training and beyond.  

For his part, the Acting Commandant, GMA Brigadier General (Brig Gen) Charles Agyeman Prempeh, said he was elated to receive the training facility on behalf of the Chief of the Defence Staff (CDS) Lieutenant General (Lt Gen) Thomas Oppong Peprah and the Academy.  He commended the intake for their thoughtfulness, describing the gesture as timely contribution to the growth of their alma mater.  Brig Gen Agyeman Prempeh reiterated that constructing a pit for unarmed combat training was remarkable and would facilitate practical training and efficiency. He also appealed to past GMA Intake groups to assist in shaping the future of their alma mater. He outlined plans to host the presidents of all intake groups to facilitate discussions on the progress of the Academy.