Ouagadougou: The Minister of Defense and Veterans Affairs, Brigadier General Celestin Simpore, presided over a significant ceremony at Camp Guillaume Ouedraogo, where 144 officer cadets from the Georges Namoano Military Academy were awarded their second lieutenant epaulettes, marking the culmination of nine months of intensive training.

According to Burkina Information Agency, the Minister emphasized that this ceremony aligns with the vision of the President of Burkina Faso, Captain Ibrahim Traore, to strengthen the Burkinabe army. The Minister remarked that the nation’s defense capabilities are crucial for safeguarding its assets and populace. He highlighted the readiness of these newly commissioned officers to join active operations and contribute to ongoing military efforts.

The Minister noted the continuous effort over the past three years to train officers expected to ascend to senior roles within the national armed forces. Second Lieutenant Frederic Ouedraogo, representing the 9th class of officer cadets, expressed confidence in the training received, stating their readiness to join forces with existing military personnel in combating opposition forces.

Ouedraogo acknowledged the potential risks involved, including the possibility of personal sacrifice, but assured that their training instilled resilience and courage.

The ceremony celebrated the achievements of 144 officer cadets, categorized into 50 officer cadets from the ranks, 70 specialist officer cadets, and 24 cadets from the initial promotions of the continuum. The 9th class specifically consisted of 50 Burkinabe trainees, including four women, drawn from various military and defense units, underscoring the diverse backgrounds and skills brought into the force.

The 15th class of specialist officer cadets comprised 91 students, including 21 from the continuum, who received training across 15 different specialties. This diversity in training and specialization reflects the comprehensive approach to preparing the cadets for their future roles in the national defense strategy.