The Commander of the 3 Infantry Division the Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF), Major General Wilberforce Serunkuma, has described Non-Commissioned Officers (NCOs) as the backbone of the army and urged them to embrace leadership with discipline, responsibility, and commitment.
He made the remarks as the 3 Infantry Division of the UPDF passed out 175 Non-Commissioned Officers (NCOs) who successfully completed a three-month Ideological and Leadership Course at the Division headquarters in Moroto. The officers were drawn from units across the division and affiliated formations.
The course was conducted under the framework of Operation Usalama Kwa Wote, which has supported peace, stability, and disarmament efforts in the Karamoja sub-region.
“Today marks not the end of training but the beginning of renewed responsibility in your careers. The successful completion of this course is a testament to your commitment, hard work, and readiness to take on even bigger responsibilities in the force,” he said.
Maj Gen Serunkuma underscored the importance of ideology in military service, noting that the UPDF was founded on principles that must continue to guide its conduct and mission in serving the country.
The Deputy Division Commander, Brigadier General Allan Kyangungu, commended the Division Commander for supporting the training and encouraged the officers to transfer the knowledge and values acquired to fellow soldiers in their respective units.
Moroto Deputy Resident District Commissioner, Justine Tuko, urged the officers to remain disciplined, avoid desertion, and safeguard their careers.
Outstanding trainees were recognised during the ceremony, including Lance Corporal Okurut Jacob (Best Ranger), Private Odongo Ramathan (Best in Drill), Private Murungi Precious (Best Female Trainee), and Sergeant Ojede Alfred (Best Overall Trainee).
The ceremony also coincided with the conclusion of the Commanders’ Easter Cup, where the 3 Division Instructors won the football title, Artillery finished second, and the Other Ranks team defeated PCC to win the volleyball competition.
The event was attended by senior and junior officers from the UPDF, as well as representatives from the Uganda Police Force, Uganda Prisons Service, and the Internal Security Organisation, among other security agencies.
