Peacekeeping Training

1st African Conference on Curriculum Development A curriculum model of higher learning on peace support operations in Africa By; Dr KJ De Beer (CUT) and Col PJ De Montfort(SANDF). ABSTRACT: In preparing its forces for peace support missions, the SANDF rely almost exclusively on a core of general-purpose combat training, supplemented by mission-specific training during the pre-deployment phase. The reliance on general-purpose combat training base on the conviction that troops well trained for high-intensity warfare would be well prepared for any scenario falling short of combat, including peacekeeping. It assumes that peacekeeping draw on the same set of skills as conventional warfare, but test soldiers to a lesser degree. It assumes that any necessary training beyond general-purpose combat training is achievable within the relatively short period between the notice of mission and a unit's actual deployment. Unfortunately, this traditional approach to training is not adequate to give military personnel either the full range of skills or the appropriate orientation necessary to meet the diverse and complex challenges presented in African peace support operations. The topics relevant to training for peace support operations are numerous and complex, and could not be covered adequately in the pre-deployment phase, particularly in cases where that period is measured in days. The failure of the formal training plan to provide adequately for these non-combat skills arise primarily from the lack of doctrine recognising the need for such training, and the lack of supporting training materials and standards. Therefore, a much wider array of knowledge and skill is required than is normally covered under general-purpose combat training. There is a lack of education, training, and development opportunities in the SANDF and in particular at institutions of higher learning in the RSA concerning peace support operations.