KAIPTC has strengthened its regional footprint with the inauguration of its second National Alumni Chapter in The Gambia. This milestone follows the establishment of the first chapter in Sierra Leone in 2024 and signals the Centre’s commitment to building a continent-wide network of peace and security professionals.
Nearly 40 graduates of KAIPTC courses—spanning topics from election management and disaster preparedness to conflict prevention and humanitarian assistance—attended the ceremony in Banjul. For many, it was both a reunion and a reaffirmation of their professional journey with the Centre.
Acting Commandant, Air Commodore David Akrong, underscored the importance of alumni as “lifelong ambassadors” of the Centre’s mission. “This chapter is not just about staying connected; it’s about leveraging our shared expertise to drive peace, security, and good governance across the region,” he said.
Air Commodore Akrong swore in the newly elected executive team, namely Mariynn Jabang, President; Bubacarr Sambou, Vice President; Mariama Barry, Secretary General; Juju Jallow, Public Relations Officer, and Lamin Jallow, Vice Public Relations Officer. He urged them to foster a strong and collaborative network that will benefit both members and the Centre.
The executives pledged to amplify alumni engagement, citing how their training at KAIPTC has advanced their work in gender advocacy, election monitoring, and counterterrorism.
“Alumni chapters are not just formalities,” noted Ms. Jabang. “They are engines of collaboration that ensure we remain connected to the Centre while making real contributions to our societies.”
Operating under the theme “Unity for Peace and Security: Strengthening the Alumni Network for Regional Impact,” the Gambian chapter aims to provide a hub for professional networking, mentorship, continuing education, and collaborative initiatives. Its objectives include fostering lifelong ties with KAIPTC, supporting career development, enabling knowledge exchange, and contributing to the Centre’s long-term sustainability.