The opening ceremony for the 2025-2026 academic year at the Centre for Advanced Studies in Defence and Security (CHEDS) was held this Thursday, January 15, in the amphitheater of the Defence Institute of Senegal, under the chairmanship of Air Force General Birame Diop, Minister of the Armed Forces.

On this solemn occasion, the authorities presented diplomas to the students of the 2024-2025 class of the Master's program in Defence, Security and Peace, marking the culmination of an academic journey focused on contemporary strategic issues, security governance and peacebuilding.

The ceremony also included the presentation of the Defense, Security and Peace Diploma to several individuals from both the civilian and military spheres. Among the recipients was Adama Sarr, mayor of Keur Massar Nord, recognized for his commitment and career in the field of territorial governance and security.

Several high-ranking military and security officials graced the event with their presence, including General Mbaye Cissé, Chief of the General Staff of the Armed Forces, and Major General Martin Faye, Commander of the National Gendarmerie and Director of Military Justice. Numerous alumni and prominent figures from major commands and services also attended the ceremony, lending it a special significance.

This academic year confirms the central role of CHEDS in training civilian and military leaders called upon to design and implement public policies for defense, security and peace in line with the strategic priorities of Senegal.

The event took place in the presence of representatives from the Ministry of the Armed Forces, the CHEDS and the National Police of Senegal, illustrating the inter-institutional synergy at the heart of the national security architecture.