A total of 49 Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) soldiers were among the 13,221 graduates at Makerere University last week.
They were awarded Bachelors Degrees upon completion of their studies in Defence Studies (BDSK) from Uganda Military Academy (UMA) – Kabamba, an affiliate of Makerere University (MUK).
In his remarks at the luncheon on behalf of the Chief of Defence Forces Gen Wilson Mbadi, the Chief Political Commissar Maj Gen Henry Masiko commended the President and Commander in Chief of the UPDF H.E Gen Yoweri Museveni for spearheading the path to professionalism in the forces.
He said continuous training and improvement of welfare create a standard army. “Creating a standard and professional army is a big milestone in Uganda,” he said.
He urged graduates to apply the acquired knowledge and skills in their units and formations. “Go to the field and command others and don’t seat in offices,” he emphasized.
Maj Gen Masiko further advised graduates of Intake One MUK – BDSK, to desist from all behaviour that derails performance.
Speaking at the same luncheon held at Ndere Centre in Kisaasi, Kampala, the Chief of Personnel and Administration Brig Gen Eugene Ssebugwawo noted that graduates were initially carefully selected based on age, performance and discipline, among others.
He called upon the fresh graduates to maintain discipline, noting that indisciplined soldiers cannot be considered to attend courses.
Col Tumuranzye, who represented the Chief of Training and Recruitment Brig Gen Mathew Gureme remarked that UMA trains character, adding that graduates have been shaped into better soldiers.
The MUK Faculty of Social Science Dean Mr. Justus Twesigye thanked UPDF for collaborating with the university to widen the scope of social sciences. He said embracing social sciences builds a stronger pro-people army.
Maj Charles Ainomugisha, who spoke on behalf of graduates lauded UPDF leadership for enhancing their career development.
The day’s luncheon in recognition of graduates’ performance was also attended by the Chief of Staff Air Force Brig Gen Gonyi, Brig Gen Fred Twinamatsiko, Dr. Enos Rwashama, and parents of graduates among other invited guests.
