On Wednesday, the air was thick with smiles, hugs, and palpable relief as 28 young Greenlanders gathered to receive their education certificates from Arctic Basic Education. After enduring a rigorous six months of physical training and personal development, these individuals could finally claim their status as graduates.
Among them was Julia Steenholdt, who radiated a mix of pride and exhaustion. “Finally—it feels great,” she said, reflecting on how the months seemed to stretch out and fly by simultaneously.
### An Education That Opens Doors
Arctic Basic Training is a six-month introduction to essential soldiering skills and preparedness in the challenging Arctic environment. This rigorous program equips participants with the foundational knowledge needed to advance within the Armed Forces, whether their aspirations lie with the Navy, Air Force, Army, or in civilian roles that emphasize discipline, teamwork, and resilience.
“Completing this training has unlocked a pathway to various educational opportunities within the Armed Forces. There are numerous programs available,” Julia shared, expressing her dreams of one day serving as a marine constable in the Navy.
Before stepping into that future, however, she and 27 of her fellow graduates will embark on a perspective course. This next stage is designed to help them apply their new skills in real-world scenarios, both civilian and military. The excitement mounts as they prepare to begin four weeks of fire training in Nuuk this coming Monday. But first, Julia allows herself a moment to unwind.
The culmination of their training was a grueling 36-kilometer march across the ice cap, each participant carrying a 20-kilogram pack—a true test of physical and mental endurance. “We were nearly competing to see who could limp the least,” Julia recalled with a chuckle. “We tried to act tough, but the pain was worth it.”
The training encompassed everything from field exercises in Denmark to sailing between Iceland and East Greenland, culminating in a hands-on action module in Sisimiut. “We woke up each day at six, cleaned up, had breakfast, and then went through room inspections. Our day officially began at eight. On shooting days, we practiced extensively, while other days were spent in classrooms. But we were mainly out in nature,” she explained.
Yet the experience was not without its challenges. “You truly test your limits. It can be intense and a bit frightening, but when it’s all over, you feel an immense sense of satisfaction,” Julia said.
### Young People from All Over the Country
Julia, who opted for Arctic Basic Education after completing her upper secondary education, found herself uncertain about her future. She is not alone; many have used this program as a catalyst for their careers. “A lot of us come from small villages, where opportunities like becoming a firefighter may not exist. Now, with this training, we have the skills to return home and make a difference,” she noted.
Though coming from diverse backgrounds and regions, the bond among these young people remains strong. For Julia, one of the most valuable lessons learned was the significance of camaraderie. “Each of us has our unique strengths and weaknesses, and supporting one another has been crucial,” she remarked.
As the second cohort to complete Arctic Basic Training, these graduates are seen as vital to enhancing Greenland’s readiness and defense capabilities. Julia is resolute about her desire to contribute to her country’s security. “It’s important for me to help, and I feel hopeful about the ways I can make a difference in the future,” she concluded.