The Uganda Peoples' Defence Forces (UPDF) has passed out 122 trainees who successfully completed a Platoon Commanders Course at the School of Defence Intelligence and Security in Migyera, Nakasongola District.

The ceremony was presided over by Commander Motorised Infantry Division Major General Charles Byanyima on behalf of the Commander Land Forces. He described the occasion as not only the end of a training phase but also the beginning of greater responsibility, career progression, and accountability in leadership.

Maj Gen Byanyima told the graduates that the skills acquired during the course had equipped and mentored them with professional abilities to handle challenging tasks in their line of duty. He urged them to remain disciplined, uphold the UPDF code of conduct, and demonstrate loyalty, patriotism, and ideological clarity in their service.

He reminded the officers of their constitutional obligation to fulfill the mandate of the UPDF under Constitution of the Republic of Uganda, emphasizing the importance of integrity and responsibility in every decision they make. He further encouraged them to remain focused, maintain good health, and prepare themselves as future leaders of the force.

Maj Gen Byanyima also commended the Chief of Defence Forces for leadership that has strengthened infrastructure, enhanced combat capability, improved welfare, promoted ideological awareness, and reinforced zero tolerance to corruption within the UPDF.

Joint Staff Training and Doctrine (JS TRADOC) Brigadier General Wycliff Keita praised the Chief of Defence Intelligence and Security for facilitating the training in Migyera. He noted that the course was specifically designed to address practical operational challenges while bridging gaps in professional military education.

Brig Gen Keita explained that the training initiative, introduced by the Chief of Defence Forces, aims to eliminate backlogs in military training and ensure that all eligible personnel access professional development opportunities.

Representing the Chief of Defence Intelligence and Security, Colonel Nicholas Humble Nyesiga expressed appreciation to the President for championing human resource development within the security forces. He also lauded UPDF leadership for transforming the force into a versatile and agile institution capable of responding to modern security demands.

The Commandant of the School of Defence Intelligence and Security, Colonel Ezra Kokundakwe revealed that 22 of the officers who graduated were female, highlighting progress in gender inclusion within the military.

Col Kokundakwe thanked the UPDF leadership and the Migyera community for their continued support toward training programs and urged the graduates to maintain discipline and strive for excellence throughout their service.

The ceremony was attended by several senior officers, including Chief of Staff – Special Forces Command Brig Gen Paul Namawa, Commander Ground-Based Air Defence Brig Gen Freeman Mugabe, Brig Gen Columbus Tumwine, Commandant Uganda Air Force College Brig Gen Allan Karanzi, and Commandant Basic Military Training School Brig Gen John Patrick Otongo, alongside other senior and junior officers.

The completion of the course reflects the UPDF’s continued commitment to strengthening leadership, enhancing operational readiness, and building a professional force capable of effectively executing its national and constitutional responsibilities.