Vice-President Opoku-Agyemang urges GAF graduates to confront modern security threats
The Vice-President, Professor Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang, has urged graduates of the Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) Senior Command and Staff Course 46 to apply their newly acquired skills in tackling the complex security threats facing the country and the wider sub-region.
Addressing the joint graduation ceremony of the Ghana Armed Forces Command and Staff College (GAFCSC) in Accra, she underscored the rapidly evolving nature of global and regional security, stressing that challenges now range from climate change and terrorism to trans-border crimes and cybersecurity vulnerabilities.
She commended the college for adapting its curriculum to reflect these realities by introducing new disciplines that equip officers with the knowledge and expertise needed for modern military operations.
“The introduction of multi-domain operations and future wars modules is timely, given the evolving nature of contemporary security threats,” she said. “With the role that technology is now playing in shaping the trajectory of modern security operations in the battle space, the inclusion of digitisation awareness and cyber security issues in the curriculum is very commendable.”
A total of 135 officers graduated from the Senior Command and Staff Course 46 after 48 weeks of intensive training designed to sharpen their professional, analytical, and leadership skills. They included 30 officers from 16 allied African countries, as well as civilians enrolled in the Master of Science in Defence and International Politics, the Master’s in Defence and International Affairs, and the Master’s in Security Studies programmes.
The ceremony brought together the Chief of the Defence Staff, Service Chiefs, the Chief Director of the Ministry of Defence, heads of security services, members of the Armed Forces Council, members of the Staff College Control Board, commandants, the President of the National Defence University, generals and senior officers both serving and retired, members of the Teshie Traditional Council, staff of the college, Forces and Service Sergeant Majors, service personnel, graduates and invited guests.
Prof. Opoku-Agyemang lauded the GAFCSC for its consistent pursuit of excellence in training world-class military officers and security professionals. She praised the institution for maintaining high academic and professional standards despite growing student enrolments, describing it as “a beacon of excellence” in preparing officers to confront the demands of modern security landscapes.
“As we navigate the complexities of our current global dynamics, including international conflicts, alliances, and power shifts, it is essential for our officers to broaden their perspectives and enhance their critical and strategic thinking,” she said.
She further commended the college’s academic innovations, including the introduction of a Doctorate in Defence and International Politics and a new MSc in Security Studies, describing them as vital in “broadening perspectives and enhancing strategic thinking” among officers and scholars.
Prof. Opoku-Agyemang encouraged the graduates to uphold the values of mutual respect, trust, and cooperation, reminding them of the importance of networks and relationships built during their time at the college. “As you step into the next phase of your careers, remember that in the fast-changing security environment of today, collaboration and informed decision-making will be your greatest assets,” she urged.
Reaffirming the government’s commitment to supporting institutions like the GAFCSC, she also expressed gratitude to Ghana’s international partners for their contributions to defence training.
She acknowledged the sacrifices of families, communities and countries in the graduates’ success and congratulated award winners and all participants. “Now that you know what you are capable of, maintain the high standards you have set. And well done to each graduate for completing your course. This is a big achievement for all of you,” she said.
