13th Joint Graduation Ceremony and Launch of the Second Edition of the KAIPTC Journal of African Peace and Security
(Accra 30th November, 2024): It was a momentous time at the Kofi Annan International Peacekeeping Training Centre (KAIPTC) on Friday, 29th November 2024, as the institution marked its 13th Joint Graduation Ceremony alongside the much-anticipated launch of the second edition of the KAIPTC Journal of African Peace and Security. Under the theme, “Celebrating Two Decades of Excellence: Promoting Peace and Security in a Changing World Order,” the grand occasion unfolded in the majestic Schröder Hall.
Commandant Maj Gen (Dr) Richard Addo Gyane: A Call to Leadership and Transformation
Maj Gen (Dr) Richard Addo Gyane, Commandant of KAIPTC, set the tone for the day with a stirring address. “Education is not the end,” he said, “but the very beginning of a transformative journey! Let your knowledge spark hope, inspire communities, and lead with purpose.” The Commandant celebrated the Centre’s enduring commitment to building peace and security across Africa, noting its evolution into a world-class institution for research, capacity-building, and postgraduate education.
With 104 students from Ghana, Nigeria, and South Africa graduating from KAIPTC’s prestigious Master’s programs, Maj Gen Addo Gyane challenged them to embody the institution’s values as peace ambassadors. Borrowing the words of Confucius, he urged: “Education breeds confidence. Confidence breeds hope. Hope breeds peace.” A resounding applause followed as he concluded: “Graduates, the world awaits your courage, integrity, and innovation!”
Osabarima Nana Ansah-Sasraku III: Wisdom from Tradition Meets Modern Peacebuilding
Adding royal elegance to the ceremony was Osabarima Nana Ansah-Sasraku III, Chief of Mamfe and Kyidomhene of the Akuapem Traditional Area. In his keynote address, Osabarima delivered a powerful reflection on Africa’s role in the evolving global order. “Peace,” he declared, “is not merely the absence of war; it is the presence of justice, equity, and good governance.”
He further called for the continent to rise strategically in the face of challenges such as climate change, youth unemployment, and political instability. “Africa is poised to play a significant role in the changing world order,” he proclaimed, “but only if we act with responsibility, unity, and purpose.” His call to action resonated deeply with the audience as he emphasized the urgent need to address environmental degradation and uphold democracy.
A Day of Celebration and Reflection
The occasion wasn’t just about looking back on 20 years of excellence; it was a rallying cry for the future. With the launch of the second edition of the KAIPTC Journal of African Peace and Security, the Centre demonstrated its continued commitment to amplifying African scholarship in global peace and security discourse.
The journal, a beacon of intellectual rigor, underscores KAIPTC’s mission to reshape the foundations of global security governance. “Let us amplify African voices,” Maj Gen Addo Gyane urged, “and chart a new course that assures security and prosperity for all.”
The Graduates: Africa’s New Peace Ambassadors
As the ceremony reached its climax, the graduates took their rightful place in the spotlight. Maj Gen Addo Gyane reminded them of their duty to their communities, saying, “Never put personal interests above the needs of the very communities that contributed to what you have become today.” Osabarima Nana Ansah-Sasraku echoed this sentiment, challenging the graduates to lead with integrity, compassion, and courage.
From their polished regalia to their palpable pride, the graduates symbolised the promise of a brighter, more peaceful Africa. Their certificates, as Osabarima aptly put it, are not mere accolades but mandates to serve as catalysts for justice, innovation, and equity.
The Road Ahead: A Renewed Commitment to Peace and Security
As KAIPTC celebrates its 20th anniversary, this landmark event encapsulated the Centre’s unwavering dedication to shaping the next generation of peacebuilders. The words of Maj Gen Addo Gyane and Osabarima Nana Ansah-Sasraku III will undoubtedly echo through the annals of KAIPTC’s history as a clarion call for excellence, innovation, and leadership in the pursuit of peace and security.
In the words of Maj Gen(DR) Addo Gyane: “Forward, peace ambassadors—your time is NOW!”
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