The Ghana Army has warned newly trained soldiers to uphold the reputation of the Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) and obey Ghana's laws. The warning was issued at the passing-out parade of 646 recruits of the Basic Infantry Training Course (BITC) 1-26 at the Army Recruit Training School (ARTS) in Shai Hills. The recruits underwent six months of intensive training in various areas, including physical training, drill, tactics, and first aid.
Reviewing Officer and General Officer Commanding (GOC) of the Southern Command, Brigadier General Edward Awaribey, addressed the recruits. He stated that 650 recruits commenced the course, but four were unable to complete the training due to medical and disciplinary reasons. The 646 recruits who passed out had met the required standards to begin their careers in the GAF. They then swore the oath of allegiance, led by Brigadier General Awaribey.
Brigadier General Awaribey urged the recruits to approach subsequent career courses with humility and determination. He emphasized the importance of maintaining high standards of discipline, integrity, courage, loyalty, and professionalism. The recruits were cautioned against posting operational information, photographs, or videos on social media that could compromise military operations or bring the GAF into disrepute.
The new soldiers were also warned against using their military uniforms for unauthorized activities, such as debt collection, land-guard activities, and fraudulent dealings. Brigadier General Awaribey stressed that wearing a military uniform did not place soldiers above the law. As members of the GAF, they remained subject to the Constitution, national laws, and regulations governing the Armed Forces.
Brigadier General Awaribey encouraged the new soldiers to be mindful of their company and the potential influence of friends or relatives. He noted that some recruits could participate in internal and international peace support operations, where discipline and professionalism would be critical. The recruits were encouraged to wear their uniforms with pride, serve with honor, and obey lawful orders.
Several recruits received awards for outstanding performance in different areas of training. Recruit Warrant Officer Class I Ebenezer Akwasi Midorse emerged as the Overall Best Recruit, receiving the Chief of the Army Staff's Award. Other award recipients included Recruit Warrant Officer Class II Sarah Nyarkowaa Twum, Recruit Warrant Officer Class II Stephen Atendana Solomba, and Recruit Warrant Officer Class II Alfred Asare Koranteng.
The Ghana Army has emphasized the importance of responsible behavior among its new recruits. The warning against social media misuse and uniform abuse aims to maintain the reputation of the GAF. The new soldiers are expected to uphold the high standards of discipline and professionalism as they begin their careers.
Key points
- The Ghana Army warns new soldiers against misusing social media and military uniforms.
- 646 recruits pass out of the Basic Infantry Training Course (BITC) 1-26.
- Recruits are urged to maintain high standards of discipline, integrity, and professionalism.
