News

GAF Opens 2026 Sergeant Majors Convention to Strengthen Leadership and Discipline

• 05 May
• Admin

By Badasu Kate

Brigadier General Isaac Nicholas Paintsil, General Officer Commanding Southern Command, on behalf of the Chief of Army Staff, Major General Lawrence Kwaku Gbetanu, officially opened the Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) Sergeant Majors Convention Monday 4 May 2026 at the Engineer Training School, Wajir Barracks.

The convention runs from Monday 4 May to Friday 8 May 2026. The theme for this year’s convention, “Strengthening Leadership at the Core: Empowering Sergeant Majors for Modern Military Excellence”.

In his remarks, Brigadier General Paintsil said the convention marks an important milestone in the continuous effort to strengthen professionalism, discipline and leadership within the GAF. He expressed pleasure at the presence of sergeant majors from the Army, Navy and Air Force, saying their attendance demonstrates the unity of purpose central to the force’s effectiveness.

On behalf of the Chief of Army Staff, the GOC highlighted that the modern operational environment has become more complex, dynamic and demanding, and that the role of the sergeant major remains indispensable. He described sergeant majors as the backbone of discipline, custodians of standards and the trusted link between commanders and the rank and file.

He urged all participants to take full advantage of the opportunity to engage actively in syndicate discussions, share experiences candidly and approach every session with professionalism and intellectual curiosity. He emphasised that the strength of the convention depends not only on the quality of presentations but also on the depth of participation.

Brigadier General Paintsil added that the responsibility placed on sergeant majors is significant and that the convention is intended to sharpen leadership skills and strengthen their ability to meet emerging challenges.

He urged them to remain focused on enhancing leadership at every level of command, to contribute purposefully and to maintain unwavering commitment to the welfare and discipline of their personnel.

The thematic areas selected for discussion including customs and traditions, leadership development, discipline, training standards and the challenges of unit administration are central to the continued growth and transformation of the Ghana Armed Forces.

He commended Headquarters, 5 Infantry Battalion and the Engineer Training School for the extensive preparations undertaken to ensure the successful conduct of the convention.