178 UPDF officers graduate in company commanders’ course

The Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) has passed out 178 officers who completed a five-month Company Commanders’ Course (CCC) Intake 27/25-26 at the School of Infantry (SOI) in Bihanga.

The ceremony was presided over by the Commander of the 2 Infantry Division, Maj Gen Paul Muhanguzi, who represented the Deputy Commander Land Forces.

Maj Gen Muhanguzi urged them to apply the knowledge and skills acquired to enhance leadership within their respective units.

“Leadership in the military is measured not by rank alone, but by the ability to inspire, guide, and make sound decisions under pressure, especially in modern warfare. The UPDF expects you to become commanders who lead by example, uphold discipline, and safeguard the values of our institution,” he said.

He reminded the graduates that commanders carry immense responsibility for the welfare, discipline, training, and combat readiness of soldiers under their command.

“The knowledge gained here should improve operational effectiveness in your formations. Continue learning, remain disciplined, and uphold the core values of the UPDF, including loyalty, integrity, patriotism, and professionalism. Become worthy ambassadors of the School of Infantry and the UPDF,” he added.

Speaking at the ceremony, the Commandant of the School of Infantry, Brig Gen Godfrey Golooba, applauded the graduating officers for their resilience, commitment, and perseverance throughout the intensive training programme.

Golooba observed that the Company Commanders’ Course remains one of the UPDF’s key professional military education programmes aimed at preparing officers for higher command responsibilities.

“This course was deliberately structured to broaden your understanding of command, leadership, and troop management.

“Command demands competence, integrity, and the ability to make timely decisions under difficult circumstances,” Brig Gen Golooba noted.

He encouraged the officers to remain committed to professionalism, integrity, and mission accomplishment while applying the lessons learned in future assignments.

The Chief Instructor, Col Ssebagala, said the trainees underwent extensive theoretical and practical instruction covering several command-related disciplines intended to produce capable and effective company commanders.

“The officers demonstrated commitment, endurance, and willingness to learn. They have been prepared to understand the demands of command and execute responsibilities with confidence,” he stated.

Col Ssebagala emphasised that graduation marks the beginning rather than the end of professional growth and responsibility.

“As commanders, you will influence the morale, discipline, and operational performance of the soldiers under your command. The professionalism you exhibit will determine the effectiveness of your units,” he added..