A total of 637 Non-Commissioned Officers (NCOs) of the Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) graduated after completing four months of training at the Non-Commissioned Officers Academy (NCOA) in Gaddafi Barracks, Jinja Cantonment.
The courses included the Senior Non-Commissioned Officers Course (SNCO), the Instructors Course, and the Junior Non-Commissioned Officers Course (JNCO).
Maj Gen Francis Takirwa, Deputy Commander Land Force, who officiated at the ceremony, praised the graduates and highlighted the vital role of NCOs in the military. “The NCO core is the foundation of any force. The UPDF is focused on building a professional, well-trained force as an investment in human capital that will maintain the good shape of the force,” he said.
He encouraged the graduates to demonstrate discipline, patience, and commitment in their duties while embracing responsibility and sacrifice. He also urged them to apply their newly acquired skills in their respective units and avoid lobbying for favoured assignments, emphasising the importance of teamwork and the national character that defines the UPDF’s success.
Maj Gen Takirwa also stressed the significance of maintaining good health and financial discipline, urging soldiers to remain dedicated to the values of national development.
On behalf of the Joint Staff Training and Doctrine (TRADOC), Colonel Stephen Mulindwa assured that the UPDF would continue enhancing its training programs to ensure the force remains professional and ready for future challenges.
Col Michael Ssesanga, Commandant of the NCOA, commended the NCOs for their dedication and confirmed that the course objectives were fully achieved. “You have been prepared into competent leaders who must serve with dedication and passion because the UPDF has hope in you,” Col Ssesanga remarked.
Recognition was given to Sgt Otwa Norble Charles, named the best overall student in the SNCO course, Pte Ambeja Hilder, who excelled in the Instructors Course, and Pte Munguja Felix, who was the top performer in the JNCO course.
The ceremony was attended by senior officers, including Brig Gen Chris Ogwal, Commandant of the Junior Staff College; Col Saad Katemba, Director of Training for Land Force; Col Katongole, Commandant of SOST; and Col James Rukundo, Third Division Training and Operations Officer.
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