The Naval Recruit Training School (NRTS) of the Naval Training Command (NAVTRAC) has held a passing out parade for 346 recruits of Basic Training Intake 85 (BT 85) on Friday 25 September 2026 at the NAVTRAC Parade Square, Nutekpor.
The parade marked the successful 26 weeks of completion of the recruits’ standard military and basic naval training, which combined classroom instruction, practical exercises and military drills to prepare them for service in the Ghana Navy.
The Special Guest of Honour, the Volta Regional Minister, Honourable James Gunu, congratulated the recruits on the successful completion of their rigorous physical, academic and character training. He noted that their transition from recruits to members of the Ghana Armed Forces represented not merely a change in uniform, but an assumption of greater responsibility and the trust of the Ghanaian people. He therefore urged them to wear the uniform with integrity, professionalism and patriotism and to discharge their duties with firmness, fairness, discipline and respect for human rights.
The Regional Minister further charged the recruits to remain vigilant and professional in responding to emerging security challenges, including armed robbery, land guards, cybercrime, drug trafficking, substance abuse and threats to public order. He cautioned them against extortion, brutality and other forms of unprofessional conduct and urged them to serve as proud ambassadors of law and order. He commended the Commanding Officer and instructors for their efforts in shaping the recruits, assuring them of Government’s commitment to retooling the Armed Forces and providing the necessary logistics for training and operations.
The Reviewing Officer, Commodore Godson Kwabla Zowonoo (Rtd), also congratulated the recruits and urged them to uphold the values of loyalty, courage, integrity, discipline, professionalism, teamwork and selfless service instilled in them during training. He reminded them that passing out marked the beginning of a lifelong journey of learning and professional development, and encouraged them to pursue continuous self-improvement, exercise sound judgement, respect lawful authority and remain committed to excellence.
Commodore Zowonoo (Rtd), emphasised that the naval uniform symbolised responsibility, trust and national service, and urged the recruits to conduct themselves in a manner that would uphold the image of the Ghana Navy and the Ghana Armed Forces. He further cautioned them against corruption and abuse of authority, encouraged them to lead by example and commended the Commanding Officer and training staff of NRTS for their dedication, professionalism and sacrifices in preparing the recruits for the realities of military service.
At the end of the training, Recruit Petty Officer Class 1 Asafo-Agyei Audrey Kantanka received the Overall Best Recruit Award. Recruit Chief Petty Officer Class 1 Alimenu Hamza was adjudged Best in Drill, while Ordinary Seaman Under Naval Training (OSUT) Amadi Blankson De-young Jnr received the Best in Academics Award. Ordinary Seaman under Naval Training (OSUT) Sadiq Huseifa received the Commanding Officer’s Special Award.
The ceremony was attended by the District Chief Executive for South Tongu District, Madam Victoria Dzeklu, former Chief of the Naval Staff, Rear Admiral Geoffrey Mawuli Biekro (Rtd), senior officers, officers, instructors, Senior Rates, families and friends of the graduating recruits. The Ghana Navy Regimental Band was in attendance.
