The Ghana Army has cautioned its newly trained soldiers against misusing social media and their uniforms. The warning was given at the passing-out parade of 646 recruits of the Basic Infantry Training Course (BITC) 1-26 at the Army Recruit Training School (ARTS), Shai Hills, in the Greater Accra Region, on Friday, September 25, 2026. The recruits underwent six months of intensive training.
The Reviewing Officer, General Officer Commanding (GOC), Southern Command, Brigadier General Edward Awaribey, said 650 recruits commenced the course, but some were unable to complete the training for medical and disciplinary reasons. He urged the 646 recruits who passed out to uphold the reputation of the Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) and obey the laws of Ghana.
Brig. Gen. Awaribey reminded the recruits that passing out marked the beginning, rather than the end, of their military careers. He urged them to approach subsequent career courses with humility and determination and maintain the highest standards of discipline, integrity, courage, loyalty, and professionalism.
The Reviewing Officer cautioned the recruits against posting operational information, photographs, or videos on social media in ways that could compromise military operations or bring the GAF into disrepute. He also warned against the use of illicit drugs and prohibited substances, as well as misuse of the military uniform for unauthorized duties.
Brig. Gen Awaribey stressed that wearing the military uniform did not place soldiers above the law, reminding them that they remained subject to the Constitution, national laws, and the regulations of the Armed Forces. He urged them to be mindful of the company they kept, as friends or relatives could sometimes encourage soldiers to misuse their positions or uniforms.
Outstanding recruits were recognized for excellence in various disciplines, including Recruit Warrant Officer Class II Sarah Nyarkowaa Twum, who received the Chief Staff Officer’s Army Headquarters’ Award as the best all-round female recruit. Recruit Warrant Officer Class I Ebenezer Akwasi Midorse emerged the overall best recruit and received the Chief of the Army Staff’s Award.
The Ghana Army Commander, Army Training Command, and other dignitaries commended the instructors and staff for their efforts and acknowledged the support of families throughout the recruits’ training. The new soldiers will now proceed to their respective units, where they will be guided, mentored, and developed to serve with honor and obey lawful orders.
Key points
- The Ghana Army has warned its new recruits against misusing social media and their uniforms.
- The 646 recruits underwent six months of intensive training at the Army Recruit Training School.
- Outstanding recruits were recognized for excellence in various disciplines.