The Ghana Navy has added 346 newly trained personnel to its ranks after the recruits successfully completed 26 weeks of intensive military and basic naval training.
The recruits, belonging to Basic Training Intake 85 (BT 85), graduated at a passing-out parade held on Friday, September 25, at the Naval Training Command (NAVTRAC) Parade Square at Nutekpor in the Volta Region.
Their training at the Naval Recruit Training School (NRTS) covered classroom-based lessons, practical exercises and military drills aimed at equipping them with the skills and discipline required for service in the Ghana Navy.
Addressing the recruits at the ceremony, Volta Regional Minister James Gunu congratulated them on completing what he described as a rigorous programme that tested their physical abilities, academic knowledge and character.
He reminded them that joining the Ghana Armed Forces went beyond putting on a military uniform, saying it came with greater responsibility and the trust of the Ghanaian people.
Mr Gunu urged the recruits to uphold integrity, professionalism and patriotism in the discharge of their duties, while exercising firmness, fairness, discipline and respect for human rights.
He also charged them to remain alert to emerging security threats, including armed robbery, land-guard activities, cybercrime, drug trafficking, substance abuse and threats to public order.
The Regional Minister cautioned the new naval personnel against extortion, brutality and other forms of misconduct, urging them to serve as ambassadors of law and order.
He commended the Commanding Officer and instructors for their contribution to the training programme and assured the Armed Forces of the government’s commitment to providing the logistics and resources needed for effective training and operations.
Reviewing Officer Commodore Godson Kwabla Zowonoo (Rtd) also urged the recruits to hold firmly to the values acquired during their training, including loyalty, courage, integrity, discipline, professionalism, teamwork and selfless service.
He reminded them that the passing-out ceremony was only the beginning of their professional journey and encouraged them to pursue continuous learning and self-development.
Commodore Zowonoo further urged the recruits to exercise sound judgement, respect lawful authority and strive for excellence in their service.
He noted that the naval uniform carries with it responsibility, trust and a commitment to national service, and cautioned the recruits to conduct themselves in a manner that protects the reputation of the Ghana Navy and the wider Ghana Armed Forces.
He also warned against corruption and abuse of authority, encouraging the recruits to lead by example.
Some of the recruits were recognised for exceptional performance during the training.
Recruit Petty Officer Class 1 Asafo-Agyei Audrey Kantanka was adjudged the Overall Best Recruit, while Recruit Chief Petty Officer Class 1 Alimenu Hamza won the Best in Drill award.
Ordinary Seaman Under Naval Training (OSUT) Amadi Blankson De-young Jnr was named Best in Academics, while OSUT Sadiq Huseifa received the Commanding Officer’s Special Award.
The ceremony was attended by the South Tongu District Chief Executive, Victoria Dzeklu, former Chief of the Naval Staff Rear Admiral Geoffrey Mawuli Biekro (Rtd), senior military officers, instructors, Senior Rates, and relatives and friends of the recruits.
