By Iddi Yire
Accra, April 11, GNA – President John Dramani Mahama, the Commander-In-Chief of the Ghana Armed Forces, Friday charged the military to remain patriotic, disciplined, and responsive always.
President Mahama gave the charge in his address at the graduation of the Regular Career Course 63 of the Ghana Military Academy at Teshie in Accra.
The President by the powers vested in him by the Constitution of Ghana, as President of the Republic and Commander-in-Chief of the Ghana Armed Forces, grant the Graduating Officer Cadets of Regular Career Course 63, the President’s Commission into the Ghana Armed Forces.
President Mahama said as Commander-in-Chief of the Ghana Armed Forces, on behalf of the people of Ghana, he had worn the uniform of the Ghana Navy to identify himself with the men and women in uniform.
“We are in solidarity with you, and we will support you every step of the way. To our graduating cadets, you are being commissioned at a time when the sub-region is facing security threats. These threats have the tendency to erode our collective security gains,” the President said.
“I encourage you to remain resolute and committed as you work hard to improve on the legacy left by your predecessors. Embrace that legacy and carry it forward with pride.”
President Mahama said at his watch as the Commander-in-Chief of the Ghana Armed Forces, merit-based promotions, hinged on competence and not connections would be the norm and not the exception.
“To the graduating cadets, today marks the beginning of a new chapter in your lives. You are no longer an officer cadet. You shall soon be officers of the Ghana Armed Forces,” President Mahama said.
“The nation looks up to you with expectation, hope and confidence. You are part of the future of our Ghana Armed Forces. Your actions will shape the destiny of our nation.
“Remember that leadership is neither about rank nor privilege. Leadership is about responsibility and service. I urge you to lead with integrity, courage, and compassion.”
President Mahama encouraged the graduands to be officers who inspire loyalty, adding that he expects them to be leaders who earn respect and uphold the highest standards of professionalism.
“In your journey as serving officers, you will face challenges. However, I trust that with the resilience, determination, and skills that you have gained at this prestigious military academy, you will be well prepared for the task ahead.”
President Mahama said the Military’s sacrifices deserve recognition, adding that for their retired personnel who had sacrificed so much for your nation, the Government ensure that their retirement benefits were paid promptly.
“Soldiers and defense civilian staff, your health is also a priority. We have a viable vision to upgrade your medical health facilities. We will therefore complete and equip the Kumasi Military Hospital at Afari in the Central Command,” he said.
“We have also budgeted for a military-filled hospital in Tamale. We want you and your families to have access to quality health care.”
He said the Defence Industry Holding Company, which was the commercial wing of the Armed Forces, would further see to the revamp of the defence production lines to produce clothing for the nation’s men and women in uniform, to produce boots and accessories for the Ghana Armed Forces and other security services.
President said within a 24-hour economy, the Engineer Corps would also be licensed to participate in commercial ventures for the Ghana government and would be paid for it.
This, the President said would go alongside expanding and equipping the Engineer Corps to undertake national emergency projects.
“Your skills will not only protect the nation but will also help support the 24-hour economy initiative,” he said.
The President further commended and congratulated the award recipients, especially Senior Under Officer Mustapha Salim Danabja, who has been adjudged the Overall Best Cadet of Regular Career Course 63 and the Overall Best Cadet in the Army Faculty.
The Military Cane Award, which is given to the Cadet adjudged the second overall best Cadet went to Junior Under Officer Nakobu Mohammed Abdul-Hamid.
Whereas Academic Cane Award, given to the Cadet who placed third in the cumulative order of merit, went to Junior Under Officer Kwarteng Michael Owusu, among other award winners.
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