UPDF Partners With MAK University To Introduce Arabic and Chinese Language Courses

The Chief of Military Intelligence Major General James Birungi, has launched the languages wing and officially opened the Arabic and Chinese courses that will be conducted in partnership with the Makerere University School of Languages at the School of Military Intelligence in Nakasongala district.

Maj Gen Birungi lauded the Dean School of Languages, Makerere University for partnering with the Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces on the noble cause for the country. “This is indeed an important milestone for the entire UPDF fraternity and the country,” said Maj Gen Birungi.

He observed that the course comes at a time when the new world order, globalization and advances in technology have brought new opportunities and challenges that require effective communication skills to avoid ambiguities and the possibility of being misunderstood and navigating through multicultural and intricate partnerships.

Maj Gen Birungi implored the participants to be focused and have a positive attitude to be able to harness as much knowledge as they can to succeed in the course. “This training will prepare you to become certified linguists on your job specification especially interpretation, translation, and being subject matter experts on cultural Issues, among others.”

Col James Muhumuza the Commandant of the School said that the course aims to produce trainees who can effectively read, listen, write, speak and translate.

He cited from the historical perspective the power of language as a power of unity in the Bible during the building of the Tower of Babel which the same was used as a defensive tool to disintegrate the people and save God’s kingdom.

The Director of the Confucius Institute – Makerere University, Dr Gilbert Gumoshabe expressed gratitude for entrusting Makerere University in the formation of the new language curriculum adding that there is a need for knowledge of other foreign languages besides English.

In attendance were; Brig Gen Bonny Wolimbwa Commandant Kaweweta Recruit Training School, Brig Gen Tom Kabuye, Brig Gen Kenneth Shillingi, Asaba Charles and Dr. Zhong Jianghua Chinese Director Confucius Institute – MAK among others.