Maj Gen Ssemwanga made the remarks while representing the Commander Land Force at the pass-out ceremony of 742 recruits, including 32 women, who successfully completed the Basic Military Training Course at the UPDF Mountain Warfare Training School (MWTS) in Karugutu, Ntoroko District.
The recruits were drawn from the districts of Bunyangabu, Ntoroko, Kabarole, Kasese, Kamwenge and Bundibugyo.
Addressing the newly qualified soldiers, Maj Gen Ssemwanga advised them to continue learning from their senior colleagues while upholding the core values of the UPDF throughout their service.
He reminded them of the fundamental responsibilities of an infantry soldier, including maintaining their weapons, fostering teamwork and comradeship, and respecting the civilian population.
"Learn from your senior colleagues and uphold the values of professionalism. As infantry soldiers, you must maintain your weapons, promote teamwork and comradeship, and always respect civilians," he said.
Maj Gen Ssemwanga also expressed gratitude to the parents and residents of Ntoroko and the neighbouring districts for entrusting the UPDF with their sons and daughters, assuring them that the recruits had been transformed into disciplined personnel ready to serve the nation.
"To the people of Ntoroko and the neighbouring districts, thank you for entrusting us with your children. They are no longer the children who used to play football; they are now security personnel serving their country," he said.
The Commander of the Mountain Infantry Division, Major General Stephen Mugerwa, thanked parents for supporting their sons and daughters in joining the UPDF and assured them that the force would continue to nurture and professionally develop them throughout their military service.
The Commandant of the Mountain Warfare Training School, Colonel Jedidiah Kiyengo, urged the recruits to apply the knowledge and skills acquired during their training, emphasizing that discipline remains the foundation of military excellence.
"Remember that discipline is the backbone of the UPDF. It drives us to excel, making us reliable in the face of adversity," he said.
Col Kiyengo also commended the instructors for their dedication and professionalism in delivering training that meets UPDF standards and enhances the operational effectiveness of the Mountain Infantry Division.
The pass-out ceremony was attended by senior and junior officers of the UPDF, representatives of the Uganda Police Force and the Uganda Wildlife Authority, among others.