Description

The United Nations Staff Officer Course-49 (UNSOC-49) was held from 15 to 26 September 2025. The purpose of the course was to provide a comprehensive understanding of the United Nations’ functioning, basic principles, guidelines, and policies. The course aimed at equipping attendees with the necessary knowledge and skills to effectively fulfil their responsibilities as Staff Officers (SOs) in Field Headquarters (FHQ) and Sector Headquarters (SHQ).

Participation

A total of 16 participants attended the course, including 5 lady officers. All participants were from the Pakistan Army.

Instructors

The participants received training from a diverse group of instructors, including:

• Peacekeeping Training Faculty
• Representatives from the Pakistan Army and Police Directorates
• Representative from the UNHCR
• Subject-Matter Experts (SMEs)

Conduct Methodology

The course was conducted as per the Integrated Training Service (ITS) developed training materials. The Core Pre-Deployment Training Materials (CPTM) remained a fundamental component of the course. Participants received DPO/DOS guidance materials such as peacekeeping training policies, standard operating procedures, and basic guidelines.
In addition, participants attended a guest lecture delivered by Major General Zia Ur Rehman, HI(M), Retd, former Force Commander of the United Nations Mission for the Referendum in Western Sahara (MINURSO). His session provided valuable insights into the operational realities and challenges faced by UN staff officers in mission areas.

Closing Ceremony

The closing ceremony taking place on 26 September 2025 started with the distribution of certificates among the successful participants followed by the closing remarks by the chief guest. In his closing remarks, Brig Sajjad Ahmad, SI(M), Retd, HoD PkT, commended the participants of UNSOC-49, noting that although the course spanned only two weeks, it successfully provided a realistic understanding of a UN Field Headquarters environment. He highlighted that the Department of Peace Operations Training had made remarkable progress by organizing 222 courses and training over 4,235 peacekeepers in accordance with UN policies and guidelines. He further emphasized that CIPS continues to maintain strong institutional partnerships with leading regional and international peacekeeping training institutions. Acknowledging Pakistan’s meaningful contribution to UN peacekeeping missions, he noted that the country has consistently provided soldiers, police personnel, diplomats, and relief workers in various conflict zones under the UN flag. He also lauded Pakistan’s distinguished status as one of the leading Troop Contributing Countries (TCCs) to UN missions.

Concluding his address, Brig Sajjad congratulated all graduates of UNSOC-49, expressing confidence that the course would serve as a valuable milestone in broadening their understanding of UN systems and enhancing their preparedness for future roles as Staff Officers. He extended his best wishes to all participants for continued professional success in their future endeavors.

Course Photos

United Nations Staff Officer Course-49 (UNSOC-49)