Page 25 - Bugle Spring 2024

Perspective from Kenya
Maj Gavin Kasyoka (Kenyan Navy)
FIRST AND FOREMOST, I am grateful to my country Kenya and the United Kingdom which, through bilateral agreements, have made it possible for Kenyan military course members
to undertake staff course training in the United Kingdom. This is in support of Kenya’s vision
to undertake capacity building of its senior course members in order to maintain a credible, professional and competent force.
The Advanced Commandand Staff Course (ACSC) stands out as a key course that has equipped me with the requisite skills to undertake my duties diligently in my future appointments either in command or staff duties. The course has been designed to impart professional knowledge and
skills and prepare the course members for advanced responsibilities in command and staff appointments. The defence/security and academic modules have been designed to equip the course members with the capacity to adapt and navigate through the evolving and complex security environment.
ACSC course design emphasizes critical thinking and planning. This is evidently achieved through tasks and assignments. The course has enabled Course members to learn how to analyse complex situations, assess risks, and develop comprehensive strategies to achieve military objectives. In terms of leadership development, the course has been designed to enhance and develop skills among course members through the assignment of leadership and command roles during various evolutions or college activities.
In my view this has provided the course members with the requisite tools to effectively navigate future assignments and tasks. Modern military operations often require collaboration with various agencies, both military and civilian. The course has equipped course members with the skills to work effectively
with different organizations and coordinate efforts for mission success. The focus on Multi Domain Integration, emphasis on working with industry players in security through best strategies in Managing the Defence enterprise affirms this.
In an increasingly interconnected world, understanding international perspectives and cooperation is crucial. This has been achieved since the course often includes course members from allied and partner nations, fostering international collaboration and understanding. Further, I believe the course has enabled course members adapt to evolving military environments, technologies, and tactics. This adaptability is essential for maintaining the effectiveness of the armed forces. ACSC has provided course members with the opportunity
“
to interact with their peers and instructors. This
has provided networking opportunities which can
be invaluable throughout our military careers, fostering collaboration and information sharing
and contributing towards collective security in a globalised world. The social events have promoted the spirit of comradeship and enhanced E spirit de Corps and fostered long lasting friendships across the divide. Getting to know each other and appreciating one’s strength or weakness has anchored the tenets of empathy and humility.
I can authoritatively state that I am leaving the course as a better-trained and equipped officer capable of advising senior leadership as well as professionally lead and guide my subordinates. I wish all my fellow course members fair winds and following seas.
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Getting
to know each other and
appreciating one’s strength or weakness has anchored the tenets of empathy and humility.