Africa-Press – Eritrea. The annual graduation ceremony at Sawa is a pivotal event, where students simultaneously celebrate the completion of their secondary school education as well as military training as part and parcel of their preparations for the national service. This convergence at Sawa underscores the nation’s commitment to fostering educated and socially cohesive citizenry. Far more than just a training facility, Sawa has evolved into a true melting pot, bringing together young Eritreans from all nine ethnic groups and six administrative regions. Here, in an environment of shared purpose and harmony, the students forge bonds that transcend their ethnic and religious differences, embodying the spirit of national unity central to Eritrea’s identity. The comprehensive experience at Sawa, encompassing both academic and military training, is an indispensable cornerstone in shaping a harmonious generation in modern Eritrea.
The graduation ceremony took place on July 12th, a momentous day for thousands of young Eritreans. The highly anticipated event was attended by President Isaias Afwerki as well as high-ranking government and military officials. The ceremony began with a solemn moment of silence in tribute to Eritrea’s martyrs, followed by a military salute from the graduating class.
A captivating artistic show highlighted the multifaceted nature of the Sawa program. A choir of approximately 20 trainees performed national songs in Tigrinya, Arabic, and Bedawiyet, demonstrating that artistic performances thrive alongside academic and military training. This was followed by an awe-inspiring parade of the graduates, a testament to perfect harmony and discipline. The synchronized march, accompanied by a vibrant marching band, vividly demonstrated Sawa’s ability to unite Eritrea’s diverse ethnic groups and regions.
The parade itself was rich with symbolism, featuring five distinct blocks representing the five units of Sawa Military Training Center. Additionally, five other blocks meticulously formed various shapes: a camel, an intimate friend of Eritrean freedom fighters and Eritrea’s national emblem; a tank, representing Eritrea’s ground forces; a ship, representing the Eritrean navy; an aircraft, reflecting the nation’s air force; and a dove, a powerful emblem of peace, signifying the Eritrean armed forces’ commitment to a peaceful existence.
Sawa stands as far more than a training ground; it’s a unique extension of the Eritrean educational system. Here, 12th-grade students complete their high school studies while undergoing national service training. This interwoven program is designed to cultivate not only academic prowess but also to instill unwavering patriotism and deep understanding of Eritrea’s rich cultural tapestry. The vibrant festivities continued after the impressive military parade with diverse artistic performances, including songs, dances and poetry recitations. There were 11 songs in all Eritrean languages and dances of the nine ethnic groups, each reflecting the spirit of the event. These musical performances were accompanied by impressive calisthenics by approximately 260 trainees, all adorned in the vibrant colors of the Eritrean flag, alongside captivating choreography from both trainees and other cultural troupes.
In his keynote address, President Isaias Afwerki congratulated the trainees and their parents. He urged the graduates to always pursue higher academic achievements to acquire greater knowledge and professional skills, noting that these are critical components and multiplying factors for national progress and development.
In his address, Colonel Debesay Ghide, Commander of the National Service Training Center, gave detailed information about the extensive programs implemented to foster the psychological resilience, morale, and physical fitness of national service members during their year-long tenure. Colonel Debesay elaborated that this comprehensive year at the center seamlessly integrates various crucial components. These include completing 12th-grade academic program, political education, and military training. The military training itself is multifaceted, encompassing practical military exercises, marching, tactical instruction, military discipline, body building, and a wide array of athletic activities, all designed as part of the center’s holistic annual curriculum. Colonel Debesay further elaborated on the diverse composition of the 37th round of trainees for national service. Notably, in a significant development, girls outnumbered boys in this year’s graduating class, making up 50.4% of the participants. The trainees undertook an intense, year-long program that ran from August 24, 2024, to July 12, 2025.
The graduation ceremony was a significant occasion for recognizing excellence. President Isaias and General Filipos presented awards to graduates who excelled across various aspects of the training. These accolades went beyond simply acknowledging outstanding results; they were a profound tribute to the graduates’ entire journey at Sawa, honoring their past efforts, celebrating their present achievements, and serving as powerful motivation for their future endeavors. Sawa Military Training Center, therefore, is much more than a place for military drills. It is a center for transformative experience, equipping young Eritreans with a unique skillset, thoroughly preparing them to navigate life’s challenges. The program at Sawa champions holistic development, nurturing not only physical prowess but also intellectual capabilities. It provides a clear roadmap for future success by instilling vital qualities such as critical thinking, a strong work ethic, and the unwavering discipline needed to overcome obstacles.
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