By Fostina Mkandawire

Salima, November 30, Mana: Malawi Defence Force (MDF) Commander, Paul Valentino Phiri has encouraged Junior Officers who have completed their course at Command and Staff College to maintain professionalism as they serve Malawians.

He made the remarks on Friday during the closing ceremony of Junior Command and Staff Course number 5 of the Malawi Defence Force academic year 2024 at the Staff College.

Phiri said upholding the core values that encompass military ethics should never be underemphasized.

He then emphasized that special military courses are essential for junior officers to gain new knowledge and skills as they serve as middle managers.

In his remarks, MDF Command and Staff College Commandant Colonel Enock Ntonya applauded the junior officers for their discipline and successful completion of the course.

Ntonya added that the military officers have been equipped with knowledge in different sectors of their daily work adding the junior command and staff course is essential as it plays a great role in decision-making.

"This course is specifically crafted to equip junior officers as they progress to higher ranks of serving in bigger roles. We have courses in decision-making, critical thinking and other important topics that shape military officers with integrity," he said.

He then commended stakeholders who supported in different ways to make the training a success.

The 5-month Junior Command Course drew 31 participants including those from Malawi and other seven from Zambia, Mozambique, Eswatini, Botswana, and Tanzania.