Description

The United Nations Military Observers Course – 45 (UNMOC) was conducted at the Centre for International Peace and Stability (CIPS), NUST Islamabad, from 13^th to 24^th April 2026. The course aimed to equip peacekeepers with the necessary knowledge, skills, and attitudes required for their roles as UN Military Observers in both current and prospective UN Peacekeeping Operations. Participants engaged in comprehensive training aligned with the UN Integrated Training Service to ensure effective preparation for deployment.

Participation

A total of 25 officers successfully completed the course. Of these, 20 participants were from allied nations, including Kazakhstan, Rwanda, Bangladesh, Egypt, Mozambique, Malawi, Sri Lanka, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Lebanon, and Eswatini, Qatar. The remaining 5 participants were officers from the Pakistan Army.

Conduct Methodology

The course employed a structured training methodology encompassing Core Pre-deployment Training Materials (CPTM), Specialized Training Materials (STM), and in-mission training. Experienced military observers shared insights on mission environments, mandates, and the specific roles and responsibilities of UN Military Observers. This approach enabled participants to gain a contextualized understanding of the operational areas they may be deployed to.

Visits

During the course, participants had the opportunity to experience Pakistan’s cultural and natural heritage through organized visits. These included exploring iconic sites in Islamabad, enjoying a day at Murree’s Chinar Golf Club, and attending a farewell dinner at the Monal. Additional visits included Jinnah Super Market, Centaurus Mall, Lok Virsa & Pakistan Monument, providing participants a well-rounded experience of Pakistan’s hospitality and rich cultural traditions.

Closing Ceremony

The closing ceremony of the United Nations Military Observers Course (UNMOC-45), held on 24 April 2026, commenced with the National Anthem, followed by the distribution of certificates among the successful participants.

The ceremony was graced by H.E. Mr. Muhammad Iqbal Hussain Khan, High Commissioner of Bangladesh, who presented certificates to the graduating participants.

Subsequently, the allied officers from Belarus presented mementos and souvenirs to Brigadier General Naveed Qalb-I-Abbas, Director Overseas Operations. In return, he presented souvenirs, along with CIPS magazines and journals, to the Chief Guest as a token of appreciation.

H.E. Mr. Muhammad Iqbal Hussain Khan delivered the closing remarks as the Chief Guest. He expressed his pleasure and honor at addressing the participants and commended them on the successful completion of the course. He further noted that the course brought together a diverse group of officers, reflecting the multicultural environment in which United Nations peacekeepers are expected to operate in missions worldwide.

He further emphasized that the training and sensitization of prospective peacekeepers remains a vital element of pre-deployment preparation for all Troop Contributing Countries and commended the Centre for International Peace and Stability (CIPS) for its continued role as a Centre of Excellence in this regard. He appreciated the efforts of the Department of Peace Operations Training (DPOT), which, within a short span of time, has successfully conducted 231 courses and trained over 4,400 peacekeepers in line with United Nations policies and guidelines. He also acknowledged the value of in-situ training provided to infantry battalions and multi-role units, where CIPS teams serve as master trainers and evaluators of peacekeeping contingents. He also hoped that the participants would take back positive memories of the course as well as Pakistan’s hospitality and wished them continued success in their professional careers while commending the institute for conducting the course in a highly professional and impactful manner.

Course Photographs

United Nations Military Observers Course – 45 (UNMOC-45)

 

Description

The United Nations Staff Officer Course-50 (UNSOC-50) was held from 2 to 13 February 2026. 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 21 participants from Pakistan Army completed the course, including 4 lady officers.

Instructors

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

• Peacekeeping Training Faculty

• Representatives from the Pakistan Army

• Representative from the UNHCR and UNAIDS

• 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.

Closing Ceremony

The closing ceremony of UNSOC-50 held on 13 February 2026 commenced with the distribution of certificates among the successful participants, followed by the closing remarks by Associate Dean CIPS, Dr Muhammad Makki. Dr. Makki expressed his pleasure in interacting with the participants of the UN Staff Officers Course-50 and observed that training at CIPS reflects the diversity and professionalism of the United Nations itself. He remarked that despite being a short course of two weeks duration, UNSOC-50 successfully provided the participants with a realistic understanding of a UN office environment.

Highlighting the achievements of the DPOT, he stated that over its brief yet productive history, the department had organized 228 courses and trained more than 4,375 peacekeepers in accordance with UN policies and guidelines. He further emphasized that CIPS remains in close institutional partnership with leading regional and international peacekeeping training institutions, thereby strengthening its role as a premier center for peacekeeping education and training.

The Associate Dean also acknowledged Pakistan’s significant and meaningful contribution to UN peacekeeping missions across the globe. He noted that Pakistan has consistently contributed soldiers, police personnel, diplomats, civil servants, and relief workers to conflict-affected regions under the UN flag. He appreciated Pakistan’s distinguished status as one of the leading Troop Contributing Countries (TCCs), whose commitment to international peace and stability continues to receive worldwide recognition. Concluding his remarks, the Associate Dean congratulated all graduates of UNSOC-50 and expressed confidence that the course would serve as an important milestone in enhancing their understanding of UN systems and preparing them for future responsibilities as Staff Officers.

Course Photos

The United Nations Staff Officer Course-50 (UNSOC-50)

Description

The United Nations Military Observers Course – 44 (UNMOC) was conducted at the Centre for International Peace and Stability (CIPS), NUST Islamabad, from 6th  October to 17th  October 2025. The course aimed to equip peacekeepers with the necessary knowledge, skills, and attitudes required for their roles as UN Military Observers in both current and prospective UN Peacekeeping Operations. Participants engaged in comprehensive training aligned with the UN Integrated Training Service to ensure effective preparation for deployment.

Participation

A total of 38 officers successfully completed the course. Of these, 20 participants were from allied nations, including Jordan, Kazakhstan, Rwanda, Azerbaijan, Bangladesh, Egypt, Mozambique, Malawi, Nigeria, Sri Lanka, South Africa, Malaysia, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, China, and Iraq. The remaining 18 participants were officers from the Pakistan Army.

Conduct Methodology

The course employed a structured training methodology encompassing Core Pre-deployment Training Materials (CPTM), Specialized Training Materials (STM), and in-mission training. Experienced military observers shared insights on mission environments, mandates, and the specific roles and responsibilities of UN Military Observers. This approach enabled participants to gain a contextualized understanding of the operational areas they may be deployed to.

The course participants also attended a two-day event on “Peace Operations” at CIPS-NUST. On Day one, they engaged in a book presentation of “Military Diplomacy: Reflections by Former UN Force Commanders” by Lt Gen (R) Dr. Dennis Gyllensporre and Lt Col (R) Prof Håkan Edström, gaining insights from the experiences of former UN Force Commanders. On Day two an expert panel discussion on “Future of UN Peace Operations”, moderated by Dr. Col Arshad Mehmood and including Lt Gen (R) Dr. Dennis Gyllensporre, Lt Col (R) Prof Håkan Edström, Lt Gen (R) Maqsood Ahmad, and Maj Gen (R) Dr. Shahid Ahmad. The panel explored global power dynamics, ongoing peacekeeping reforms, and strategies to enhance UN credibility and effectiveness in a multipolar world, providing participants with a forward-looking perspective on their future roles as UN Military Observers.

Visits

During the course, participants had the opportunity to experience Pakistan’s cultural and natural heritage through organized visits. These included exploring iconic sites in Islamabad, enjoying a day at Murree’s Chinar Golf Club, and attending a farewell dinner at the Ramada. Additional visits included Jinnah Super Market, Centaurus Mall, Lok Virsa & Pakistan Monument, providing participants a well-rounded experience of Pakistan’s hospitality and rich cultural traditions.

Closing Ceremony

The closing ceremony taking place on 16 October 2025 started with the National Anthem followed by the closing remarks by Brig Sajjad Ahmad SI(M), Retd, HOD PKT. The ceremony continued with the distribution of certificates among the successful participants.  The certificate distribution ceremony was graced by H.E. Khazar Farhadov, Ambassador of Azerbaijan to Pakistan, and H.E. Harerimana Fatou, High Commissioner of Rwanda to Pakistan, who presented certificates to the successful participants. 

Followed by the certificate distribution ceremony, Brig Sajjada Ahmad, SI(M), Retd, HoD PkT, presented the chief guests with souvenirs along with CIPS magazines and journals as a token of appreciation.

Shortly afterwards, H.E. Khazar Farhadov, Ambassador Azerbaijan addressed the participants.  H.E. extended his congratulations to the participants on the successful completion of the course, emphasizing that its diversity mirrors the multicultural environment that peacekeepers will encounter during UN missions. He underscored the pivotal role of CIPS as a centre of excellence, noting that the Department of Peacekeeping Training has successfully conducted over 200 courses in accordance with UN guidelines. He characterised UNMOC-44 as a significant milestone in expanding the participants’ understanding and preparing them for future peacekeeping missions, while expressing his hope that they appreciated Pakistan’s renowned hospitality and that the experience would have a lasting impact on their professional and personal development.

The ceremony concluded with a souvenir exchange, where participants from friendly countries presented tokens of appreciation to Brig Sajjad Ahmad, SI(M), Retd, HoD PkT.

Course Photos

United Nations Military Observers Course – 44 (UNMOC-44)

 

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)

 

Description

The United Nations Military Observers Course – 43 (UNMOC – 43) was conducted at the Centre for International Peace and Stability (CIPS), NUST Islamabad, from 25 August to 5 September 2025. The objective of this course was to equip peacekeepers for their deployment as UN Military Observers in both current and prospective UN Peacekeeping Operations. 

Participation

The course had 18 participants from the Pakistan Army, including three (03) lady officers.

Conduct Methodology

Participants underwent a three-tiered training process, encompassing Core Pre-deployment Training Materials (CPTM), Specialized Training Materials (STM), and the facets of in-mission training. Military Observers from selected missions provided briefings on mission environments, mandates, and the specific roles/assignments of military observers. This approach offered participants a more contextualized understanding of their deployment areas.

Closing Ceremony

The closing ceremony for the course took place on 5 September 2025. The ceremony concluded with the certificate distribution, followed by closing remarks delivered by the Associate Dean of the Centre for International Peace and Stability (CIPS). He welcomed the participants and faculty, noting that the two-week training at CIPS reflected the diversity of the UN and closely resembled real UN office operations. The Dean further highlighted the achievements of the Department of Peacekeeping Training, which has conducted 221 courses, training over 4,234 peacekeepers according to UN policies, and maintained partnerships with leading regional and international peacekeeping centers. He emphasized Pakistan’s crucial and ongoing contribution to UN peacekeeping, including its soldiers, police, diplomats, civil servants, and relief workers serving under the UN flag, and its status as a top Troop Contributing Country (TCC). In closing, he congratulated the UNMOC-43 graduates, expressing confidence that the course will be a significant step in expanding their understanding of the UN and preparing them for their future roles as Military Observers in complex peacekeeping missions. He wished all participants continued success in their careers.

Course Pictures

United Nations Military Observers Course – 43

 

Description

United Nations Staff Officer Course-48 (UNSOC-48) was held from 4 to 15 August 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

The course had a total of 41 participants. Of these, 26 were from the Pakistan Army. The remaining 15 participants came from various friendly countries, including China, Thailand, Jordan, Belarus, Bangladesh, Malawi, Iraq, South Africa, Sri Lanka, Egypt, Nigeria, the USA, and KSA.

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 material such as peacekeeping training policies, standard operating procedures and basic guidelines. Also, subject-matter experts (SMEs) in the field delivered valuable lectures.

Visits

During their stay, the officers enjoyed a series of visits and cultural engagements in and around Islamabad. The program included visits to markets, malls, as well as a cultural visit to Lok Virsa and the Pakistan Monument. A full-day excursion to Murree and lunch at the Chinar Golf Club allowed participants to experience the natural beauty of Pakistan’s hill stations. They also joined the Independence Day celebrations at Jinnah Auditorium, NUST, and concluded their stay with a send-off dinner at Ramada. These activities provided the participants with an opportunity to experience Pakistan’s vibrant culture, rich heritage, and warm hospitality.

Closing Ceremony

The closing ceremony of the course was held on 15 August 2025. The opening remarks were delivered by Major General Zahid Mehmood, Retd, Principal NIPCONS, who warmly welcomed the participants, defence attachés, and distinguished guests. In his address, he highlighted Pakistan’s long-standing commitment to UN peacekeeping and underscored the role of the Centre for International Peace and Stability (CIPS) as a Centre of Excellence in training peacekeepers. He expressed confidence that, with the experienced faculty and state-of-the-art training infrastructure, participants had drawn maximum advantage of the course. He also hoped that allied officers would take home fond memories of their stay in Pakistan and wished them success in their future pursuits and a safe journey back home.

The ceremony proceeded with the distribution of certificates to the successful participants by the chief guest, His Excellency Dr. Ihab Mohamed Abdelhamid Hassan, Ambassador of the Arab Republic of Egypt. Following this, the allied officers presented souvenirs to the Principal NIPCONS as a token of appreciation.

In his closing address, the chief guest, His Excellency, Dr. Ilhab Hassan, congratulated the successful participants of UNSOC-48, appreciating the diversity of participants which reflected the multicultural environment of UN missions. He commended CIPS for its significant contribution in preparing peacekeepers and expressed his hope that the participants would carry forward the knowledge and experience gained during the course into their future assignments in UN peacekeeping operations. He further hoped that participants would carry with them positive memories of both the course and Pakistan’s hospitality and extended his best wishes for their continued success in professional endeavors.

Course Pictures

United Nations Staff Officer Course – 48

 

Description

United Nations Staff Officer Course-47 (UNSOC-47) was held from 5 to 16 May 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 to equip attendees with the necessary knowledge and skills to effectively fulfil their responsibilities as Staff Officers (SOs) in Field Headquarters (FHQ) and Sector Headquarters (SHQ).

Participants

The course included a total of 31 participants, of which 21 were from various foreign countries, representing Saudi Arabia, Japan, Jordan, Morocco, South Africa, Türkiye, Bangladesh, Malawi, Mozambique, Nigeria, Sri Lanka, Belarus, Côte d’Ivoire, Egypt, and France.

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 material such as peacekeeping training policies, standard operating procedures and basic guidelines Also, Subject-matter experts (SMEs) in the field delivered valuable lectures.

Visits

During their stay, the officers enjoyed a series of visits and cultural engagements in and around Islamabad. The program included visits to markets, malls, as well as a cultural visit to Lok Virsa and the Pakistan Monument. A full-day excursion to Murree and lunch at the Chinar Golf Club allowed participants to experience the natural beauty of Pakistan’s hill stations and a farewell dinner at Ramada. These activities provided the participants with an opportunity to experience Pakistan’s vibrant culture, rich heritage, and warm hospitality.

Closing Ceremony

The closing ceremony of the course was held on 16 May 2025. The ceremony commenced with the opening remarks delivered by Associate Dean, Dr. Muhammad Makki. In his address, he welcomed the participants, faculty members, defence attachés, and distinguished guests, and highlighted the truly diverse and multicultural representation of the course, which mirrors the environment peacekeepers face in UN missions worldwide. Dr. Makki underscored the importance of training and sensitization as a critical component of pre-deployment preparations for Troop Contributing Countries, commending CIPS for its role as a Centre of Excellence in peacekeeping training. He noted that the Department of Peacekeeping Training has successfully conducted 216 courses and trained over 4,122 peacekeepers in line with UN policies and guidelines. He also emphasized CIPS’s institutional partnerships with leading regional and international peacekeeping training institutions, while appreciating the contribution of Colonel Nanjo Mamoru from Japan, whose role as an instructor added unique value to the course. In conclusion, Dr. Makki congratulated the participants of UNSOC-47, expressed confidence that the course would serve as a vital milestone in broadening their understanding of the UN system, and wished them continued success in their professional endeavors, while also hoping they would carry with them fond memories of Pakistan’s hospitality and warmth.

The ceremony proceeded with the distribution of certificates by the chief guest, H.E. Mr. Mohamed Karmoune, Ambassador of the Kingdom of Morocco. This was followed by the presentation of souvenirs to Brig Sajjad Ahmad, SI(M), Retd, HOD Department of Peacekeeping Training by the allied officers as a gesture of appreciation.

In his closing address, the chief guest, congratulated the participants of UNSOC-47 and commended CIPS for its valuable role as a Centre of Excellence in peacekeeping training. He emphasized the importance of such courses in preparing peacekeepers for the multicultural environment of UN missions and extended his best wishes to the participants for their future professional responsibilities.

Course Pictures

United Nations Staff Officer Course – 47

 

Description

The United Nations Military Observers Course – 41 (UNMOC – 41) was conducted at the Centre for International Peace and Stability (CIPS), NUST Islamabad, from 21 April to 2 May 2025. The objective of this course was to equip Peacekeepers for their positions as UN Military Observers in both current and prospective UN Peacekeeping Operations. 

Participation

The course had three participants from the Pakistan Army

Conduct Methodology

Participants underwent a three-tiered training process, encompassing Core Pre-deployment Training Materials (CPTM), Specialized Training Materials (STM), and the facets of in-mission training. Military Observers from selected missions provided briefings on mission environments, mandates, and the specific roles/assignments of military observers. This approach offered participants a more contextualized understanding of their deployment areas.

Closing Ceremony

The closing ceremony for the course took place on 2 May 2025 and the closing remarks were delivered by the Associate Dean of the Centre for International Peace and Stability (CIPS) during the closing ceremony of the United Nations Military Observer Course – 41 (UNMOC-41). In his address, he welcomed the participants and faculty, noting that the two-week course at CIPS provided a training environment that was as diverse as the UN itself and closely mirrored the operational realities of a UN office setting. He highlighted the achievements of the Department of Peacekeeping Training, which has organized 214 courses and trained over 4,086 peacekeepers in accordance with UN policies and guidelines, while also maintaining institutional partnerships with leading regional and international peacekeeping training centers. He further underscored Pakistan’s longstanding and meaningful role in UN peacekeeping operations, emphasizing its consistent contributions of soldiers, policemen, diplomats, civil servants, and relief workers under the UN flag, as well as its distinction as one of the leading Troop Contributing Countries (TCCs). In conclusion, he congratulated the graduates of UNMOC-41, expressing confidence that the course would serve as a milestone in broadening their understanding of UN systems and preparing them for their future roles as Military Observers in complex peacekeeping missions. He extended his best wishes to all participants for continuing success in their professional pursuits.

Course Pictures

The United Nations Military Observers Course – 41

 

 

Description

The United Nations Comprehensive Protection of Civilians Course – 14 (UNCPoCC – 14) was held from 07 April 2025 to 18 April 2025. This UN-certified course was conducted with the purpose of educating and sensitizing the participants about the functioning of the UN, the roles and responsibilities of the Peacekeepers, and educating participants about working in peacekeeping operations to develop a conceptual framework for PoC.

Participation

The course was attended by 37 participants from diverse backgrounds, including military personnel, police officers, and civilians. Of these, 20 were from friendly countries such as Belarus, China, Côte D’ivoire, KSA, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Jordan, Malaysia, Morocco, Niger, Nigeria, Malawi, Türkiye. Egypt, and Iraq. Additionally, 4 participants were from the Pakistan Army, 6 from the police department, and 17 were civilians, contributing to the course’s diversity.

Conduct Methodology

The participants went through an initial test at the commencement of the course. The course mainly focused on the latest Specialized Training Material (STM) for the Protection of Civilians. However, important and relevant lectures from the Core Pre-deployment Training Module (CPTM 2107) were included.  Subject Matters Experts (SMEs) including representatives from UN organizations also delivered lectures.  Moreover, the interaction of both army officers and civilian participants fostered a collaborative environment conducive to mutual learning and the exchange of insights from diverse perspectives on peacekeeping.

Visits

During their stay, the officers enjoyed visits to iconic landmarks in and around Islamabad with an entire day at Murree at the Chinar Golf Club, allowing them to experience the natural beauty of Pakistan. Alongside this, the participants visited the Lok Virsa Heritage Museum and Pakistan Monument to fully experience Pakistan and its rich heritage and culture.

Closing Ceremony

The closing ceremony of the United Nations Comprehensive Protection of Civilians Course (UNCPoCC-14) was held on 18 April 2025. The event included certificate distribution and was graced by H.E. Mr. Mohamed Karmoune, Ambassador of the Kingdom of Morocco, and Maj Gen Muhammad Arif Malik, Retd, Pro-Rector (P&R), NUST, as chief guests. Maj Gen (Retd) Raja Aftab Khan, HI(M), Retd, Principal NIPCONS, delivered the opening remarks, welcoming the participants and highlighting the growth of CIPS as a key contributor to UN peacekeeping training.

In his address, H.E. Mr. Karmoune commended the diverse participation in the course and lauded CIPS for its professional excellence and global outreach. He acknowledged Pakistan’s historic role as a major Troop Contributing Country and emphasized the importance of such training in equipping peacekeepers to protect civilians in complex conflict environments.

The ceremony concluded with the exchange of souvenirs by international participants as a gesture of goodwill and appreciation. Both dignitaries congratulated the graduates and expressed hope that they would apply their learning in future UN missions while carrying positive memories of Pakistan’s hospitality and culture.

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United Nations Comprehensive Protection of Civilians Course – 14

Description

The United Nations Military Observers Course – 40 (UNMOC) was conducted at the Centre for International Peace and Stability (CIPS), NUST Islamabad, from 20 to 31 January 2025. The objective of this course was to equip Peacekeepers for their positions as UN Military Observers in both current and prospective UN Peacekeeping Operations. 

Participation

The course had four participants from the Pakistan Army, including two lady officers

Conduct Methodology

Participants underwent a three-tiered training process, encompassing Core Pre-deployment Training Materials (CPTM), Specialized Training Materials (STM), and the facets of in-mission training. Military Observers from selected missions provided briefings on mission environments, mandates, and the specific roles/assignments of military observers. This approach offered participants a more contextualized understanding of their deployment areas.

Closing Ceremony

The closing remarks were delivered by Brig Sajjad Ahmad, SI(M), Retd, Head of the Peacekeeping Training Department (PKT). He congratulated the participants on the successful completion of the course and acknowledged the Department of Peacekeeping Training’s impressive achievements, having conducted over 211 courses and trained more than 4,000 officers per UN standards. He also highlighted Pakistan’s longstanding and meaningful contributions to UN peacekeeping over the past 76 years. In his concluding remarks, he expressed confidence that the course would play a vital role in preparing them for their future responsibilities in complex peacekeeping environments. He extended his best wishes to all participants and commended the institute for conducting the course in a highly professional manner.

 

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The United Nations Military Observers Course – 40