The Uganda People's Defence Forces (UPDF) has officially passed out more than 1,000 Senior One and Senior Five students at Mbarara Army Boarding Secondary School following a week of intensive training in patriotism and leadership.
The training, designed to instill ideological clarity and national values, concluded with a colourful ceremony on Wednesday at the school grounds in Makenke. During the event, the young “cadets” showcased the results of their rigorous training, with some drawing cheers from the audience as they demonstrated skills in dismantling and reassembling firearms with precision and speed.
Speaking at the ceremony, the headteacher, Richard Okullo, praised the students for their resilience and quick adaptation to military-style discipline. He noted that the school’s curriculum goes beyond traditional academics to prepare students for real-life challenges.
“Students at Mbarara Army are unique in ways that extend far beyond the classroom. We focus on values and skills that stay with them for life,” Okullo said.
“Whether it is discipline, time management, or the ability to handle challenges under pressure, we are moulding a generation that is not only academically sound but also practically equipped to serve their country,” he added.
The 2nd Infantry Division Commander, Paul Muhanguzi, in a message delivered by Col. Okwoba, reaffirmed the UPDF’s commitment to supporting the National Secretariat for Patriotism Corps. He emphasised that the training is a strategic investment in Uganda’s security and stability.
“The UPDF remains steadfast in its commitment to supporting patriotism in schools. By training these young minds in cadetship, we are building a foundation of loyalty and responsibility. A patriotic youth is the best defence a nation can have against internal and external threats,” Muhanguzi said.
“I urge the passed-out students to use the skills they have acquired—ranging from physical drills to ideological lessons—to become ambassadors of peace and development in their respective communities. Listen to your parents as your first mentors,” he added.
The one-week course included lessons on Uganda’s history, the principles of the National Resistance Movement, financial literacy, and basic self-defence.
Parents and guardians who attended the event expressed admiration at the transformation of the students, noting that the cadetship training is a vital tool in curbing indiscipline and fostering a sense of responsibility among the next generation of Ugandan leaders.