Uganda: Gen Takirwa Lauds Non-Commissioned Officers As Backbone of the UPDF

23 December 2024
Nile Post (Kampala)
By Billclinton Nuwahereza

The Uganda Peoples' Defence Forces (UPDF) has celebrated the graduation of 637 Non-Commissioned Officers (NCOs) who completed four months of intensive training at the Non-Commissioned Officers Academy (NCOA) in Gaddafi Barracks, Jinja Cantonment.

The graduates undertook courses in Senior Non-Commissioned Officer (SNCO) leadership, Instructor development, and Junior Non-Commissioned Officer (JNCO) training.

The programmes focused on enhancing leadership, discipline, and operational skills to foster a professional and resilient force.

Presiding over the ceremony, Deputy Commander Land Force, Maj Gen Francis Takirwa, underscored the critical role of NCOs in the UPDF's operations.

"The NCO core is the foundation of any army," Maj Gen Takirwa said. "A professional and well-trained force is essential to maintaining the UPDF's competency and reputation."

He urged the graduates to demonstrate discipline, teamwork, and a sense of responsibility while serving the nation.

Takirwa also encouraged them to maintain good health, exercise financial prudence, and focus on national development, cautioning against lobbying for preferential assignments.

Col Stephen Mulindwa, representing the Joint Staff Training and Doctrine (TRADOC), reaffirmed the UPDF's commitment to continuous training programs tailored to prepare soldiers for future challenges.

"The academy is dedicated to producing professional soldiers who are equipped to handle emerging operational demands," Col Mulindwa stated.

Col Michael Ssesanga, Commandant of the NCOA, praised the graduates for their dedication and resilience throughout the rigorous training.

"You have been moulded into leaders capable of serving with passion and excellence. The UPDF places its trust in your abilities," Col Ssesanga remarked.

Outstanding trainees were recognised for their exemplary performance. Sgt Otwa Norble Charles was named Best Overall Student in the SNCO course, while Pte Ambeja Hilder and Pte Munguja Felix excelled in the Instructors Course and the JNCO course, respectively.

The ceremony was graced by senior military officials, including Brig Gen Chris Ogwal, Commandant of the Junior Staff College; Col Saad Katemba, Director of Training for Land Force; and other high-ranking officers.

Read the original article on Nile Post.

Tagged:
Copyright © 2024 Nile Post. All rights reserved. Distributed by AllAfrica Global Media (allAfrica.com). To contact the copyright holder directly for corrections — or for permission to republish or make other authorized use of this material, click here.

AllAfrica publishes around 600 reports a day from more than 110 news organizations and over 500 other institutions and individuals, representing a diversity of positions on every topic. We publish news and views ranging from vigorous opponents of governments to government publications and spokespersons. Publishers named above each report are responsible for their own content, which AllAfrica does not have the legal right to edit or correct.

Articles and commentaries that identify allAfrica.com as the publisher are produced or commissioned by AllAfrica. To address comments or complaints, please Contact us.