The Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) engaged students at Makerere University Business School (MUBS) during the 12th Annual Employer-Employee Expo, held under the theme “Bridging Opportunities: Connecting Talent with Industry.” The event attracted participants from both the public and private sectors, aiming to educate, mentor, and connect students with potential employers.
The UPDF used the platform to demystify its operations and highlight career opportunities available to young professionals within the force. Representatives also underscored the military’s commitment to national development and its evolving professional standards.
Speaking at the event, the Acting Deputy Director for Defence Public Information, Maj Bilal Katamba, emphasized that the UPDF, established under Article 209 of the 1995 Constitution, plays a critical role not only in safeguarding Uganda’s sovereignty but also in supporting civil authorities and contributing to national development.
He reminded students that recruitment into the UPDF is increasingly competitive and grounded in values such as discipline, resilience, and commitment. “We break recruits down physically and mentally before building them back up. Your degree doesn’t exempt you from the grind. Resilience comes first,” he said.
While briefly sharing his path from university to military service, Maj Katamba encouraged students to seek role models and pursue purpose over prestige. He also emphasized the value of peace, stating, “You must keep the peace in this country. Your employment and future can only thrive in a peaceful Uganda.”
Lt Col Gideon Makanzu from the Joint Staff Legal Services described the UPDF as one of Uganda’s top government employers and called on students to consider joining the force. “We are transforming into a modern, professional army and need young minds to support this shift,” he said.
The MUBS administration, led by the Acting Deputy Principal and the Dean of the Faculty of Business Administration Associate Professor Rogers Mwesigwa, thanked the UPDF for its significant role in Uganda’s development. “Most importantly,” he added, “we appreciate the pro-people approach that the UPDF has continued to exhibit something demonstrated by honouring our invitation to this event.”
The UPDF team offered students insights into the structure and roles of various branches, including the Land Force, Air Force, Marine Unit, and Special Forces Command.
Civil-military contributions by the Engineers Brigade and Medical Services were also highlighted during the expo. These include supporting infrastructure projects in collaboration with ministries like Health, Education and Sports, and Internal Affairs.
The UPDF delegation included officers from Joint Staff Legal Services, Joint Staff Engineering, Human Resources, and the Defence Public Information Office.
