CG Darboe reminds 57 GRA graduates of responsibility 

The graduation ceremony was the 7th Intake of GRA staff that had undergone rigorous training for the past two months.

The graduation was graced by the Inspector General of Police, senior command of the Gambia Armed Forces, commander of the Training School at Fajara Barrack, government officials, partners and family members as well as loved ones.

In addressing the graduands, CG Darboe expressed deep sense of honour to celebrate the successful completion of the intensive two-month training programme attended by 57 of the GRA’s regular staff and 6 dedicated facilitators at the prestigious Gambia Armed Forces Training School, marking a significant milestone in GRA’s collective pursuit of excellence.

According to GRA boss, the training; foot and arms drill, basic weapon handling, physical fitness, martial arts, and live firing exercises at Tintinba has not only tested the graduates’ limits but also moulded them into more disciplined, resilient, and mission-ready professionals.

CG Darboe further paid tribute to GRA Board and Management as well as the staff, leadership of the Gambia Armed Forces, particularly the Chief of Defense Staff Lieutenant General Mamat O. Cham, whose visionary leadership, he said, had been instrumental in ensuring the success of the programme.

“We also recognise the unwavering commitment and professionalism of the Training School Commandant, the Chief Instructor, the Regimental Sergeant Major of the Training School, as well as the Drill and Weapon Instructors, Martial Arts Instructors, and our own GRA Facilitators. Your dedication and expertise have not only imparted valuable skills but have also inspired a spirit of discipline and resilience in every participant for which we are sincerely grateful.”

“Your achievement today is just the beginning,” he reminded the graduates, while urging them to embody the highest ideals of public service: discipline, integrity, respect for lawful authority, and professionalism at all times. “Let this training reflect in your daily work and become the foundation upon which you build long and impactful careers at the GRA.”

“I expect you to carry forward the principles and values learnt during this training. Strive every day to exceed expectations and be exemplary ambassadors of the Gambia Armed Forces Training School.”

The GRA boss also challenged the graduating officers to uphold the highest standards of discipline and honour the hierarchy at their workplace. He stated that these qualities are not only the bedrock of a cohesive and effective team but are also essential characteristics of exemplary officers entrusted with responsibility and duty.

“As you return to your respective roles, let the lessons learned and the friendships fostered during this training guide your actions and decisions. Be functional, be professional, and be exemplary in all you do. The lofty ideals of an officer—integrity, discipline, respect, and dedication—must remain your guiding light,” CG Darboe emphasised.

CG Darboe also urged the graduates of GRA to be ambassadors of this great institution and a model to others. “Let your conduct continue to justify the significant investment made in your development.”