Haruna Iddrisu inaugurates National Defence University Governing Council

Education Minister Haruna Iddrisu has inaugurated a 19-member Governing Council for the National Defence University (NDU) in Accra, marking a significant step in centralizing Ghana's military and security education. Chaired by Professor John Owusu Gyapong, the council is tasked with overseeing the institution's development following the passage of the National Defence University Act, 2026. The government has allocated GH₵25 million in seed funding to support the university's initial operations as it works to unify various defence-related educational programs.

The university's establishment aims to address emerging security threats by providing a centralized platform for research, strategic leadership, and high-level training. During the inauguration, Mr. Iddrisu emphasized that the NDU would serve as a center of excellence, offering programs not only to the Ghana Armed Forces and security personnel but also to civilians. This inclusive approach is intended to strengthen military-civil relations, which the Minister noted is crucial for maintaining democratic stability and national cohesion.

Professor John Owusu Gyapong and the council members were urged to uphold the highest standards of meritocracy, ensuring that all admissions and appointments are conducted with transparency and professional integrity. The Minister stressed that the institution must be free from discrimination to truly reflect its status as a premier national body. In his response, Professor Gyapong committed to fostering public trust and ensuring the university delivers on its mandate to equip professionals with the necessary expertise for national defence.

The NDU will initially operate through six accredited colleges while its main campus is under construction at the Whistler Barracks in Teshie. This phased rollout allows for immediate academic engagement while the physical infrastructure is being developed. Once fully operational, the institution is expected to provide a robust framework for security studies in Ghana, eventually positioning the country as a regional hub for defence education and strategic analysis.