The United Nations has certified the Army Peace Operations Training School (APOTS) of the Ghana Armed Forces as an international training facility.
Located in Bundase near Tema, the school was established in June 2021 to train troops for peace support operations.
Having graduated men and women for peace support operations in the sub-region and beyond, the acquisition of a UN training certificate was necessary to meet international standards.
The Chief of the Army Staff, Major Thomas Oppong-Peprah, presented the certificate to the school and expressed his appreciation for the achievement.
He emphasized that Ghana's participation in global peace support operations will be elevated following the acquisition of the certificate.
Major Oppong-Peprah further stated that the recognition from the UN will enhance the contribution of the Ghana Armed Forces to global peace and the defence of the sub-region.
He mentioned that APOTS will engage in training partnerships with sister countries in the region, conduct short-duration tactical courses in Peace Support Operations, and undertake research in the field, leading to the establishment of a Peace Support Operations library.
Colonel CK Dingane, the commander of the school, highlighted that besides training military personnel, the school is open to individuals interested in the intricacies of peacekeeping.
He also identified some challenges faced by the school.
The ceremony included the commissioning of three new projects at the school in Bundase.
These projects comprise the Bundase Spring Water Production Site, a facility for water production; a regimental aid post serving as a clinical facility, and a social center.
During the event, the Chief of the Army Staff engaged in a durbar with personnel from the Ghana Armed Forces, accompanied by a parade and armed drills.