Non-commissioned officers are heart of UPDF – Maj Gen Francis Takirwa

Jinja | Non-commissioned officers (NCOs) of the Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) have been recognized for their contributions to the military.

The commendation comes as 637 graduates from the Non-Commissioned Officers Academy (NCOA) in Gaddafi Barracks, Jinja Cantonment, after four months of training.

They took three courses: the Senior Non-Commissioned Officers Course (SNCO), the Instructors Course, and the Junior Non-Commissioned Officers Course.

Maj Gen Francis Takirwa, Deputy Commander Land Force, who presided over the ceremony, praised the graduates and emphasized the importance of NCOs in the military.

“The NCO core is the backbone of any force. The UPDF is focused on building a professional, well-trained force as an investment in human capital that will keep the force in good shape,” he stated.

Takirwa urged the graduates to be disciplined, patient, and committed to their duties while accepting responsibility and sacrifice.

He also urged them to use their newly acquired skills in their respective units rather than lobbying for preferential assignments, emphasizing the importance of teamwork and national character in defining the UPDF’s success.

The commander also emphasized the importance of maintaining good health and financial discipline, urging soldiers to remain committed to national development principles.

Colonel Stephen Mulindwa, speaking on behalf of the Joint Staff Training and Doctrine (TRADOC), assured that the UPDF would continue to improve its training programs to ensure that the force remained professional and prepared for future challenges.

Col Michael Ssesanga, Commandant of the NCOA, praised the NCOs for their dedication and confirmed that the course objectives were fully met.

“You have been prepared to be competent leaders who must serve with dedication and passion because the UPDF believes in you,” Col Ssesanga said.

Sergeant Otwa Norble Charles was named the best overall student in the SNCO course; Private Ambeja Hilder excelled in the Instructors Course; and Pte Munguja Felix was the best performer in the JNCO course.