The Kofi Annan International Peacekeeping Training Centre (KAIPTC) has graduated 104 postgraduate students at its 13th graduation in Accra.
The graduands pursued Master of Arts degree in gender, peace and security, Master of Arts degree in conflict, peace and security, and Executive Master of Arts degree in conflict, peace and security
It was under the theme “Two decades of excellence: Promoting peace and security in a changing world order.”
Osabarima Ansah Sasraku II, Mamfehene and Kyidomhene of the Akuapem Traditional Area, underscored the need to invest in education and skills development to equip the youth for sustainable growth.
He said strengthening institutions and creating jobs, especially for the youth, were critical steps towards lasting peace.
“Encouraging entrepreneurship and fostering innovation, especially among the youth, will help drive economic transformation,” he said.
Osabarima Ansah Sasraku II charged the graduands to champion good governance, justice, human rights, and accountability.
He also encouraged them to use their training to build resilient communities and contribute to conflict prevention, peacebuilding, and economic development.
“Your expertise and commitment to peace and security will drive meaningful change,” he said, urging everyone to embrace their roles in creating a peaceful and just world.
To address Africa’s security challenges, the Mamfehene called for better conflict prevention mechanisms, including early warning systems and dialogue facilitation.
He called for significant reforms in the United Nations Security Council to ensure Africa’s interests were better represented.
He emphasized the need to expand permanent membership to include African countries or regional blocs, which would reflect the continent’s growing importance in global affairs.
Osabarima Ansah Sasraku II also proposed increasing non-permanent seats to amplify African voices in decision-making and adopting a system that allows fair regional representation.
The Mamfehene highlighted the importance of transparency and accountability in the Security Council’s operations.
In his address, the Commandant of KAIPTC, Major General Addo-Gyane, reflected on the institution’s journey since its inception in 2004. “From humble beginnings, KAIPTC has grown into a world-class institution for cutting-edge research and capacity-building in conflict, peace, and security,” he said.
He praised the graduates as peace ambassadors equipped to tackle Africa’s pressing challenges.
The Commandant stressed that education must drive social and economic change, urging the graduands to use their knowledge to empower communities and promote lasting peace.
He announced the establishment of the Kofi Annan School of Peace and Security Studies (KASPSS) as part of Ghana’s National Defence University.
“We have Plans to introduce undergraduate programmes and expand the Women, Youth, Peace, and Security Institute,” he said
As Ghana heads to the polls in December, the Commandant called for peace, tolerance, and respect for democratic processes.
“Ghana has a strong tradition of free and fair elections. Let’s uphold this legacy and set an example for the world,” he urged.
The occasion was used to launch of the Second Edition of KAIPTC
Journal of African Peace and Security, (JAPS).
BY AGNES OPOKU SARPONG