Maj Gen Felix Busizoori, Commander of the 4 Infantry Division of the Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF), praised the outstanding performance of 92 graduates during the closing ceremony of the Training of Trainers (TOT) Methods of Instruction course at the Lugaya Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) Training Centre today.
“Congratulations Commandant and your team for the excellent performance demonstrated on the combat assault and target acquisition. I am convinced now we have more competent instructors to roll out more training,” said Gen Busizoori.
He also expressed gratitude to UWA, under Chief Warden Fredrick Kiiza, for providing the training facility to the UPDF, describing the shared resources as a testament to the strong collaboration between the two institutions for national prosperity and peace.
The General urged the new trainers to maintain discipline, avoid intoxicants, and lead by example. “As an instructor, you must be exemplary to your students. Everything you do, do it professionally. Above all, prepare yourself before embarking on any lesson,” he advised, while commending the graduates for their endurance and positive attitude throughout the course.
Lt Col Michael Ssempija, Commandant of Lugole Military Training School, announced that 92 of the original 96 trainees had successfully graduated, with four dismissed for medical reasons. He noted that among the graduates, two were female and two were commissioned officers at the rank of Lieutenant. “I’m happy to inform you that the training objectives of the Methods of Instruction TOT have been achieved,” he said, encouraging the graduates to share their newly acquired skills with fellow soldiers.
Lt Col Ssempija reminded the graduates that their training was just the beginning of their career progression and that future challenges would require resilience and dedication. “You embody the values our military holds dear: ideology, honour, discipline, and selfless service. You are no longer just individual soldiers, but a united force ready to defend, preserve, and train our national forces.”
Lt Col David Kreys Matua, representing 4 Division Operations and Training Officer Col Innocent Tukashaba, urged unit commanders to utilise the expertise of the new instructors to enhance the training capacity of their units. He suggested that further TOT courses be held to continue strengthening the UPDF’s human resources.
The ceremony also showcased various practical courses, including dynamic shooting, long-range firing, shooting under pressure, RPG 7V 40mm firing, and drill exercises.
In attendance were Col Samson Nabeta, Administrative Officer of the 4 Infantry Division, Fredrick Kiiza, Chief Warden of Murchison National Park, Lt Col Isabirye Igulu, Commander of the 501 Brigade, and Maj Paul Malinga, Chief Instructor of Lugole Military Training School, among others.
