In a pivotal move aimed at fortifying the capabilities of the Ghana Armed Forces (GAF), Ghana is gearing up to inaugurate its first National Defence University (NDU) in 2024. The announcement, made by President Nana Akufo-Addo in November 2023, signals a significant step towards advancing military education and strategic studies within the nation.
The NDU is poised to be a multidisciplinary higher education institution, offering master's and doctoral programs in military science, defence, strategic studies, international relations, and related subjects. Functioning as a modern research and educational hub, the NDU aims to facilitate long-term research, capacity building, and policy shaping in defence and security.
This groundbreaking initiative is set to play a pivotal role in addressing the complex security challenges faced by Ghana and Africa as a whole. The NDU will provide current analysis and strategic studies for various state institutions, contributing to the formulation of informed policies.
As an overarching institution, the NDU will collaborate with existing higher education institutions within the GAF, creating a cohesive educational ecosystem. This collaboration includes institutions such as the Ghana Armed Forces Command and Staff College, Kofi Annan International Peacekeeping Training Centre, National College of Defence Studies (NCDS), Ghana Military Academy, and the Ghana Armed Forces Training and Doctrine Command.
The NDU will cater to a diverse student body, educating personnel from the armed forces, security agencies, and governmental departments, and even welcoming foreign military personnel. Notably, the university will extend its reach to students from allied African countries, aligning with Ghana's vision for fostering peace and stability in the region.
Simultaneously, the GAF has inaugurated the National College of Defence Studies (NCDS), a new war college designed to train senior officers in modern warfare and strategic leadership. The NCDS will offer a comprehensive 41-week course to GAF senior officers and civil servants from the Defense and National Security ministries.
These strategic initiatives mark a significant stride for Ghana, eliminating the challenges of sending personnel abroad for strategic training. Aligned with Ghana's broader vision, the establishment of both the NDU and the NCDS positions the country as a hub of excellence in defence and security education and research in Africa, contributing to peace and stability on the continent.
In recognition of the evolving threat of cybercrime, the GAF is also set to establish a Directorate of Cyber and Electronic Warfare Operations. This initiative underscores Ghana's commitment to ensuring national security in the digital age by safeguarding its data, networks, and communication infrastructure from cyberattacks.
Article by Jed Mwangi
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