Tinashe Mlambo
Post Reporter
A TOTAL of 84 Zimbabwe National Army (ZNA) officers on Tuesday successfully completed the prestigious Potential Officers Course at the All Arms Battle School in Nyanga.
Notably, three talented female officers were among the proud graduands.
In his keynote address during the graduation ceremony, ZNA Commander, Lieutenant-General Anslem Sanyatwe, exhorted the newly commissioned officers to remain steadfast in upholding the nation’s Constitution, safeguarding national interests, and ensuring the security of the country as they resume their duties.
“This graduation ceremony marks, yet another important achievement by this prestigious institution in training officers for the Zimbabwe Defence Forces. Your course commenced with an initial enrolment of 84 potential officers, inclusive of three female members.
“It is a fact that armies, all over the world, train officers and men in peacetime to prepare them for war. It was in pursuit of this very important principle that I directed your class to undergo this special potential officers’ induction training programme.
“Allow me to also re-state that the basic tenets to fighting, and winning battles, and campaigns at strategic, operational and tactical levels lie in the thorough undertaking to train for war.
“I believe you have noted, and become aware of the responsibility to promote teamwork among your officers and subordinates in your future responsibilities. Team spirit is particularly essential for a military officer,” he said.
Adding on, Lieutenant-General Sanyatwe said it is always ZNA’s thrust to ensure that training teams are staffed with qualified and knowledgeable course officers and instructors.
“This thrust and focus reconcile with the mandate of this prestigious school, and basis for this induction course.
“It is encouraging to note the presence of female officers on your course. Ladies; this is testimony that you measured up with your male counterparts throughout your training programme. That is the spirit we expect. Go out there, and be an inspiration to other female officers. Be rest assured that, the ZNA headquarters will continue to make efforts to ensure more slots are given to females in line with the organisation’s thrust towards gender mainstreaming.
“Let me extend my heartfelt appreciation to Brigadier-General (Training), Commandant (All Arms Battle School), the course director, course officers and all the staff for a job well done.”
“Your insistence on a high standard of training despite the resource constraints is commendable. Mind you, it is a virtue to optimally perform and produce quality graduands under minimal conditions of resource,” he said.
Potential Officer Monica Langton, speaking on behalf of her peers, vowed to harness the expertise gained during the course to drive positive transformation within the ZNA.
“Today marks a momentous occasion for us graduands, a culmination of our hard work and dedication. We remember the day we first enrolled in this course, full of uncertainty and anticipation. But as women in the Zimbabwe National Army, we have proven that with discipline and focus, nothing is impossible. We have shown that we are capable of overcoming any obstacle and achieving greatness. As we stand here today, we are proud of the progress we have made, and the bonds we have formed.
“We are no longer just individuals, but a united force, driven by a shared purpose. We are determined to make a positive impact, not just in our own lives, but in the lives of those around us. We will carry the lessons we have learned and the values we have instilled into our future endeavours. We will continue to push boundaries, challenge ourselves, and strive for excellence.
“We will be the change-makers, the trailblazers, and the leaders that Zimbabwe needs. So, let us celebrate this achievement, but also let us remember that this is just the beginning. We have a responsibility to use our skills, knowledge, and experience to make a difference. We will rise to the challenge, and we will make our mark,” she said.
The comprehensive Potential Officers Course encompasses a broad curriculum, including administration, military law, civil-military relations, map reading, logistics, and more, equipping the officers with the necessary skills to excel in their roles.
