On the 10 of July 2026,Participants of Course 3-2026 of the National College of Defence Studies (NCDS) have presented the findings of their Experiential Research Studies (ERS) conducted to the Ashanti and Volta regions as part of their academic programme.
The presentations, held at the College auditorium on Friday, 10 July 2026, showcased the outcomes of field research undertaken by participants who were organised into eight teams. The ERS forms an integral part of the College's curriculum, providing participants with practical exposure to research, stakeholder engagement, and the application of best practices in addressing national development challenges.
The research was conducted under the theme, "National Cohesion and Security for Sustainable Development." During the presentations, each team outlined its research methodology, objectives, literature review, key findings, and recommendations aimed at strengthening national cohesion and enhancing security.
The participants observed that their engagements with various stakeholders highlighted tolerance, mutual respect, inclusive dialogue, and peaceful coexistence as essential pillars for promoting social harmony and building national resilience.
The studies identified several pressing challenges affecting national cohesion and sustainable development, including youth unemployment, drug abuse, land tenure disputes, social fragmentation, and farmer-herder conflicts. The researchers further noted that the ageing farming population poses a significant threat to food security and sustainable agricultural production.
The teams also emphasised the need to increase women's participation in local governance, stressing that women should be afforded equal opportunities to contribute meaningfully to national development and decision-making processes.
Responding to some of the findings, particularly concerns surrounding the Peki/Chito land dispute, the Volta Regional Minister, Hon. James Gunu explained that the disputed land had been taken over by the government. He further assured participants that efforts were underway to create more employment opportunities for the youth through agricultural initiatives in collaboration with the National Service Secretariat (NSS). He also pledged that the recent road accidents in the region would be thoroughly investigated.
In his closing remarks, the Commandant of the National College of Defence Studies, Major General Frederick Dankyi Ntiri, expressed appreciation to the Volta Regional Minister for honouring the College's invitation. He commended the participants for the quality of their research and the professionalism demonstrated throughout the presentations. As a token of appreciation, Major General Ntiri presented a commemorative plaque to Hon. James Gunu on behalf of the College.
