The Ghana Armed Forces is to recruit 1200 people for training as soldiers this year. Out of the total number, 800 will serve as army officers, 200 as navy officers and 200 as air force officers.

The Minister of Defence, Lt. Gen. Joseph Henry Smith made this known in parliament today in response to a question by Hon. Major (rtd) Derek Yaw Oduro. Hon. Oduro wanted to know when recruitment of new military personnel into the army will commence.

According to the Minister, 7357 out of total applicants of 46,124 have been short-listed for recruitment based on general eligibility and educational requirement.

He said the short listed candidates will be invited to Accra to go through some tests from 8th to 19th March 2010 followed by a medical examination before the final selection will be made. Lt. General Joseph Henry Smith said the first batch of trainees will start training from first July 2010 to 31st December 2010 whilst the second batch of trainees will begin training from 6th January 2011 to 30th June 2011.