A total of 491 UPDF officers have graduated after completing a five month training course at Non commissioned Officers Academy in Jinja
Col. Saad Katemba the commandant of the academy revealed that the graduates include 132 who completed an instructor’s course level three and 359 junior Non commissioned officers who received training in different fields especially warfare, tactical operation and short range shooting.
Before the awarding of certificates, the graduands first showcased the practical skills they acquired during their five months training especially in short range shooting using a pistol and other machine guns.
They also demonstrated tactics how to surround and overpower the enemy in the warfare.
In his speech, the chief of Training and Recruitment in the UPDF Maj. Gen. Jim Willis Byarugaba who presided over the pass out ceremony encouraged the trainees to desist from torturing civilians since it stifles the working relationship between the UPDF and members of the public who a core component in the security of the country.
He also discouraged soldiers from alcoholism and drug abuse which he says could be the cause of indiscipline in the force citing the recent incident at Nile bridge when a UPDF soldier Pte Jonan Katusiime shot dead his commander Sergeant Peter Ouma while on duty.
Some of the students were awarded with certificates of excellence.
Sergeant Stephen Basalirwa emerged the best overall student.
