The General Officer Commanding (GOC) Training Command, Maj Gen M. Sizani hosted a series of bilateral meetings with Defence Attachés from six nations including Pakistan, China, United Kingdom, India, Japan and Sweden from 27 February 2026 until 05 March 2026 at Training Command Headquarters in Thaba Tshwane, Pretoria. Defence Attachés were received each day, allowing for focused discussions tailored to the perspectives of each country. This structured approach ensured that every country had an opportunity to engage directly with the GOC Training Command, strengthening professional ties and fostering mutual understanding.
The main purpose of these meetings was to exchange ideas on joint training initiatives, in line with Training Command’s vision of a “World class defence education, training and development provider” and its mission “To direct, manage and provide professional defence education, training and development (ETD) services to the Department of Defence (DOD) including its strategic partners through designated learning opportunities to enhance force preparation”. Each Defence Attaché shared insights into their national approach to military education, while Training Command highlighted its existing colleges and capabilities including the Military Academy, SANDC, SANWC, SANDF COLET, Personnel Service School and Warrant Officers’ Academy as well as specialised capabilities such as PMTC, CECE, CCDT and CONSIM.
These bilateral meetings laid a strong foundation for enhancement of cooperation and continuity. The National Defence University was envisioned as a shared institution of academic rigor and multinational collaboration, while joint training programmes promised to enhance interoperability and trust among the participating forces. The individual meetings ensured that each nation’s priorities were heard and respected, aligning with Training Command’s broader Vision and Mission. Together, these engagements marked a significant step toward building a unified framework for professional military education and preparing forces to meet evolving global security challenges.
