N’Djamena, 4 June 2026 – The Groupement des Écoles Militaires Interarmées (GEMIA) marked a significant milestone today with a dual ceremony celebrating the induction of its sixth cohort of Enfants de Troupe and honoring academic and athletic excellence. The event drew high-ranking military and civilian officials, including General of Division Hisseine Abderamane Haggar and the Second Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces, Yangmmargue Beh Félix.

The ceremony brought together generals, officers, defense attachés from allied nations, the Mayor of N’Djamena, the Sultan of the First Arrondissement, proud parents, and alumni of the program. Speaking to this diverse assembly, the GEMIA commandant highlighted the resilience and transformation of the new recruits who had completed a rigorous initiation phase known as « bahutage »—a period designed to instill brotherhood, camaraderie, and solidarity beyond family ties.

« Today, they shed their ‘Bleus’ status to fully embrace their identity as Enfants de Troupe, » declared the general, underscoring the gravity of their transition. He reiterated the vision of President Mahamat Idriss Déby Itno, Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces: « The future of Chad is shaped within its schools. » This principle resonates deeply with the School of Enfants de Troupe’s guiding ethos: « Learn to build better, » anchored in values of honor, discipline, and excellence.

The event also recognized outstanding achievements, with awards presented to the top academic performers, most exemplary students, promotion majors, and standout athletes. The commandant commended the winners and urged them to sustain their momentum. He extended gratitude to parents for their unwavering support in nurturing the nation’s future leaders.

In closing, the GEMIA commandant called on partners and the Association of Former Enfants de Troupe to elevate the institution into a model school. He wished all personnel and students an enriching break, marking the transition into the next phase of their journey.