A total of 637 Non-Commissioned Officers (NCOs) of the Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) graduated after completing four months of intensive training at the Non-Commissioned Officers Academy (NCOA) in Gaddafi Barracks, Jinja Cantonment.
The training included the Senior Non-Commissioned Officers Course (SNCO), the Instructors Course, and the Junior Non-Commissioned Officers Course (JNCO), aimed at sharpening leadership and operational skills.
Presiding over the ceremony, Maj Gen Francis Takirwa, Deputy Commander Land Force, lauded the NCOs as the backbone of the UPDF. “The NCO core is the foundation of any force. Building a professional and well-trained force is key to ensuring the UPDF remains a competent institution,” he stated.
Takirwa encouraged the graduates to exemplify discipline, teamwork, and responsibility, urging them to serve with sacrifice and avoid lobbying for favourable assignments. He emphasized the importance of maintaining good health, financial discipline, and a commitment to national development.
Col Stephen Mulindwa, representing the Joint Staff Training and Doctrine (TRADOC), assured attendees of the UPDF’s ongoing commitment to advanced training programs. He highlighted the academy’s focus on producing professional soldiers capable of meeting future challenges.
Commandant of the NCOA, Col Michael Ssesanga, commended the graduates for their dedication. “You have been prepared into competent leaders who must serve with passion and excellence because the UPDF has hope in you,” he said.
Top performers were recognised during the event. Sgt Otwa Norble Charles emerged as the best overall student in the SNCO course, Pte Ambeja Hilder excelled in the Instructors Course, and Pte Munguja Felix led in the JNCO course.
The ceremony was attended by senior officers, including Brig Gen Chris Ogwal, Commandant of the Junior Staff College; Col Saad Katemba, Director of Training for Land Force; and other high-ranking officials.