The recognition ceremony for 326 trainees as officer-candidates was recentlyorganised by the Arakan Army (AA)  for the first time in Rakhine State inwestern Myanmar, who have already completed their training courses.

The ceremony was held on 19 June in one of the AA controlled areas in theState, said an AA statement issued on 3 July.

Arakan Army officer training course number 3 was started by 1 November 2022 for326 officer-candidates and after its completion, the ceremony was organised.

"Coming out of efficient soldiers will be helpful for the AA in future.Since its inception, the AA has been constantly working with their goal todevelop good military leaders. But the troubled
situation in Rakhine State always puts obstacles in achieving the goal.However, the AA will continue working targeting their mission,” said thestatement.

The AA officer training academy was opened in Kachin State with 138 participantson its 9th  foundiation day on 10 April 2018.

The training courses number 1 & 2 were conducted in Kachin State and thelast one was opened in Rakhine State.

The training course number 4 will also be held in Rakhine State next year. Itshould start by the beginning of the new year.

The young people, who want to serve the Arakan nation and prefer to be involvedwith the AA in future, have contacted the AA leaders across the State.

The statement also added that they can participate in defense & sustainableactivities as well.

The AA, an ethnic armed force in western Myanmar with the strength of over30,000 freedom fighters, is capable of confronting the current militarycouncil. However, the AA is currently following a cease-fire agreement with theBurmese military rulers.