KAIPTC marks 20 years of peacekeeping excellence
Story: Abdulai SAAKA, Accra
The Kofi Annan International Peacekeeping Training Centre (KAIPTC) has officially launched its 20th-anniversary celebrations in a ceremony held in Accra, highlighting two decades of impactful training in peace support operations. A significant development announced during the event was the expansion of the former Women Peace and Security Institute (WPSI) into a full department, now known as the Women, Youth Peace and Security Institute. This initiative aims to actively incorporate youth into peace and security discussions, recognizing their vital role in fostering stability.
Major General Richard Addo Gyane, commandant of the KAIPTC, expressed gratitude to the Swedish Government for its financial support in constructing office accommodation for the new department. He emphasized that the expansion reflects the Centre’s commitment to adapting its programs to the evolving landscape of peace and security in West Africa.
Since its establishment by the Ministry of Defence in 1998 and commissioning in 2004, the KAIPTC has been dedicated to building on Ghana’s extensive experience in peace operations. Major General Gyane highlighted the Centre’s growth from offering basic training courses to providing advanced degrees, including Masters and PhDs, in thematic areas such as Peace Support Operations, Conflict Management, and Peace and Security Studies. To date, the KAIPTC has trained over 25,000 military, police, and civilian personnel.
In a further effort to enhance its academic offerings, the Centre announced the reorganization of the Faculty of Academic Affairs and Research (FAAR) into two entities: the Applied Research Department and the Kofi Annan School of Peace and Security Studies (KASPSS). This new structure aims to better prepare students for careers in peace and security, with a focus on both undergraduate and postgraduate programs.
Major General Gyane acknowledged the crucial support from various partners and stakeholders, including countries like Germany, Norway, Canada, and the United States, as well as organizations like ECOWAS and the UNDP. He highlighted the infrastructural improvements made at the KAIPTC, which have transformed it into a premier training institution.
As Ghana prepares for its upcoming December elections, the Ministry of Defence emphasized the importance of collaboration among peace and security stakeholders to ensure a peaceful electoral process. Rear Admiral Issah Yakubu, speaking on behalf of the Minister of Defence, reinforced the need to protect Ghana’s democracy during this critical time.
In his closing remarks, Major General Gyane urged attendees to remember the sacrifices of colleagues who have passed, including the late Caleb Masamaka, and expressed appreciation for the ongoing support from alumni and partners. He invited them to continue their commitment to advocating for peace. With this focus on new initiatives and a commitment to involving youth in peace discussions, the KAIPTC reaffirms its mission to be a beacon of peace and stability in the region and beyond.
