CHATTOGRAM, June 18 (V7N) — Army Chief General Waqar-uz-Zaman on Thursday stressed that a modern, efficient, and patriotic army is critical to protecting the nation’s independence and sovereignty, adding that the primary responsibility for leading this force lies with its officers.
Speaking at the President’s Parade for the commissioning of the 90th BMA Long Course at the Bangladesh Military Academy (BMA) in Bhatiari, Chattogram, the Army Chief said BMA was established in 1974 to develop dedicated, efficient, intelligent, and talented officers for the 21st century.
“Under the guidance of officers commissioned from this esteemed academy, the Bangladesh Army, driven by loyalty, discipline, fairness, and a strong sense of duty, is currently making significant contributions beyond the nation's borders,” he said.
Committed to the motto 'Chiro Unnata Momo Shir' — “Ever High is My Head” — the Army continues to enhance its capabilities through BMA’s planning and training, he added. “We take pride in and express our gratitude for the contributions made by the Bangladesh Military Academy.”
General Waqar-uz-Zaman inspected the parade at the BMA Parade Ground, took the salute, and presented awards to outstanding cadets.
He said various practical initiatives have been taken to modernize the Army in response to the evolving global situation. As part of that, the Second Bangladesh Battalion was officially inaugurated at BMA on Thursday to improve cadet training quality, provide modern facilities, and ensure timely training continuity. He expressed confidence the new battalion will be vital in developing skilled, agile, and competent leadership for modern challenges.
Addressing the graduating cadets, the Army Chief said their oath entrusts them with the “esteemed duty of safeguarding the nation's independence and sovereignty.”
A total of 184 officer cadets from the 90th BMA Long-Term Course — 166 male and 18 female — were commissioned into the Bangladesh Army after three years of intensive training. Four Palestinian, one Tanzanian, one Zambian, and one Maldivian cadets also completed training and will join their respective armed forces.
Battalion Senior Under Officer Khairul Islam received the ‘Sword of Honor’ as the best cadet and the ‘Chief of Army Staff Gold Medal’ for outstanding military performance. Sergeant Abu Bakar from Tanzania was awarded the ‘BMA Trophy of Excellence’ as the top foreign cadet.
The newly commissioned officers took the oath to defend the country’s independence and sovereignty. Guests and family members then presented rank badges to the graduates.
On arrival at the parade ground, the Army Chief was received by the Acting General Officer Commanding (GOC) of the Army Training and Doctrine Command, the BMA Commandant, and the GOC and Area Commander of the Chattogram Area.
The event was attended by Members of Parliament, senior military and civilian officials from home and abroad, parents and guardians, invited guests, and media.
Later, the Army Chief inaugurated the ‘2nd Bangladesh Battalion’ at BMA, established alongside the ‘1st Bangladesh Battalion’ to boost cadets’ professional skills, leadership, and training quality to meet future challenges.
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