Page 13 - The Cormorant Issue 24 Crest Publications

Perspective from Cameroon
Major Jules Calor Dimo Oubinhou
THE DREAM OF MANY ambitious officers at the start of their military life is to have a successful career, both professionally and academically. Thus, in most countries, progression in rank and appointment is tightly linked to the military academic curriculum. ACSC represents, on
a purely military level, the highest level of training in many countries, thereby making it a prestigious course.
ACSC 24, as is the case for this level of training, is designed to meet the challenge of both academic requirements, sanctioned by the award of the Master’s degree, as well as military requirements, sanctioned by the award of the psc( j) competency. ACSC 24 stands out from other nations’ courses, though, due to the diversity of the participants, the diversity of the topics covered, and the pleasant setting of the Defence Academy itself.
Firstly, concerning diversity, it is clear from conversations with colleagues that the greatest benefit of this year will have been cultural interactions, experience sharing, and the discussion of insights on the world. In short, ACSC 24 has encouraged the blossoming of a sort of miniaturised world contained in the architectural masterpiece that is the Cormorant Building.
Secondly, the themes tackled on the course were as broad as they were deep, giving a comprehensive overview of the world and the realities of international relations. The issue of security was addressed in all its forms, leading to the study of the strategy. The Management of the Defence Enterprise module, supplemented by Application of the Military Instrument, made it possible for trainees to prepare
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for their future functions and responsibilities. Since it is difficult to talk about war without talking about planning, the study of the Operational Planning Process (OPP), supplemented by several practical exercises, has been the hard core of the course.
In addition, command being so closely tied to leadership, various activities enabled our ethical and leadership development ready for a changing world.
Finally, Shrivenham station confirmed its reputation as being a highly conducive environment for
student development. The living quarters, the library, the various facilities, have all made the stay of participants, particularly internationals, very pleasant - despite the impact of COVID. The continued efforts of military and civilian personnel, both management and support, have been highly commendable.
To conclude, being part of the ACSC 24 ‘train’ has been a particularly memorable experience not only for the uniqueness of the year, but for, above all, the warmth of the academic and social environment. The adaptable Cormorant, emblem of the College, has been a worthy symbol for ACSC 24.
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The continued
efforts of military and civilian
personnel, both management and support, have been highly commendable