Online Reporter
Kimberley Chitambara [email protected]
A total of 156 soldiers graduated from the General Squad Drill and Small Arms Course at 1 Infantry Brigade Headquarters in Bulawayo on Friday, with military leaders urging the graduates to uphold discipline, professionalism and teamwork in executing their duties.
The graduation ceremony was officiated by the Director of Procurement in the Zimbabwe National Army, Colonel Albert Chibatamoto, who commended the graduates for completing the demanding 14-week training programme.
Col Chibatamoto said the course, which commenced on 2 March 2026, had enrolled 157 students drawn from various units across the Zimbabwe National Army.
Of the 156 graduates, 30 were female, while one student failed to complete the course due to indiscipline.
He said the training programme was designed to produce highly competent, proficient and hardworking junior non-commissioned officers in drill and small arms instruction.
“The graduates have been sufficiently drilled mentally and physically to endure both peace and wartime challenges,” said Col Chibatamoto.
“Drill remains the cornerstone of military discipline and embodies the army’s values of loyalty, respect, honour, dignity, personal courage and integrity.”
The guest of honour emphasised that military discipline was the foundation of an effective fighting force and highlighted the importance of teamwork, alertness and self-control among soldiers.
Graduates were declared qualified to conduct squad drill and train personnel in small arms at the level taught during the course.
The syllabus covered subjects such as Drill Theory, Foot and Arms Drill, Small Arms Theory, Weaponry, Range Work, Cyber Security and Civil-Military Relations (CMR), among others.
Col Chibatamoto encouraged the graduates to apply the knowledge and skills acquired during the training and to contribute positively to the Zimbabwe Defence Forces.
“You are expected to maintain high standards of discipline and maturity. The purpose of military training is to protect and defend the great nation of Zimbabwe that we all love,” he said. He also congratulated the spouses and families of the graduates for supporting their partners during the 14 weeks of training, acknowledging the sacrifices made during their absence.
Addressing those who may not have received top honours in the course, Col Chibatamoto urged them to remain focused and determined.
“Not all of you can be best students, but you still have the opportunity to outperform others in future courses. Remain determined and focused,” he said.
The senior officer further stressed the importance of teamwork in military operations, noting that collective effort enables soldiers to overcome individual limitations.
Special recognition was given to the Commander 1 Infantry Brigade and the training staff for their dedication and commitment in successfully conducting the course.
The graduates received certificates marking the successful completion of the course and their readiness to take up greater responsibilities within the Zimbabwe National Army.
