The Commander of the Uganda Peoples' Defence Forces (UPDF) 2 Infantry Division, Maj Gen Paul Muhanguzi, has called on newly trained UPDF company commanders to apply the knowledge and skills acquired during their training to strengthen leadership, improve operational effectiveness, and enhance mission execution across their respective units.
He made the remarks while presiding over the pass-out of 194 officers, including 22 female officers, who successfully completed Company Commanders' Course Intake 28/26 at the School of Infantry (SOI) in Bihanga on behalf of the Deputy Commander Land Force.
He described the Company Commanders' Course as the backbone of tactical leadership in the UPDF, where operational plans are transformed into effective mission execution.
"The knowledge gained here should improve operational effectiveness in your formations. Continue learning, remain disciplined, and uphold the core values of the UPDF, including discipline, loyalty, integrity, patriotism, and professionalism. Be worthy ambassadors of the School of Infantry and the UPDF," he said.
Maj Gen Muhanguzi noted that contemporary security challenges require commanders who are adaptable, innovative, and capable of responding effectively to evolving threats.
He reminded the officers that command carries immense responsibility for the welfare, training, discipline, and combat readiness of the soldiers under their leadership.
"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.
Maj Gen Muhanguzi described the officers' successful completion of the course as a testament to their resilience and commitment to serving the UPDF with competence, adding that the quality of training reflects the force's commitment to developing highly capable officers.
He also commended the School of Infantry leadership and instructors for their continued efforts in producing competent commanders who contribute to national and regional security.
The Commandant of the School of Infantry, Brig Gen Godfrey Golooba, congratulated the graduates for their resilience, commitment, and perseverance throughout the intensive training programme.
He described the Company Commanders' Course as one of the UPDF's key professional military education programmes designed to prepare officers for greater 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," he said.
Brig Gen Golooba encouraged the officers to remain committed to professionalism, integrity, and mission accomplishment while applying the lessons learned in future assignments.
He also thanked the chief guest, instructors, support staff, and all stakeholders whose contributions ensured the successful completion of the course.
The Chief Instructor, Lt Col Nyero Kitara, said the trainees underwent extensive theoretical and practical instruction covering a wide range of command-related disciplines aimed at producing capable and effective company commanders.
He explained that the officers were continuously assessed through classroom instruction, operational planning exercises, leadership tasks, and field practicals.
"The officers demonstrated commitment, endurance, and a willingness to learn. They have been prepared to understand the demands of command and execute their responsibilities with confidence," he said.
Lt Col Kitara emphasized that passing out marks the beginning, rather than the end, of professional growth.
"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.
The best-performing officers were Lt Vincent Lugoloobi, Best Overall Student; Lt Norman Muhwezi, Best in Field Exercises; Lt Ham Opirisi, Best in Class; Maj Daudi Muhammad Komando, Best in Administration and Leadership; and Lt Aminah Namwano, Best Female Student.
The ceremony was attended by senior military officers, civil authorities, local leaders from Ibanda and neighbouring districts, relatives of the graduates, and other invited guests.
