According to Capt. Edrin Mawanda, the 5th Infantry Division Public Information Officer, sixty-nine soldiers from the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) have completed a three-month specialized course in Battalion Support Weapons and Anti-Aircraft Systems at the 5th Infantry Division Training School in Labwordwong, Agago District.
Presiding over the pass-out ceremony, the 5th Infantry Division Commander, Maj. Gen. Keith Katungi, commended the graduates for their dedication and urged them to pursue further technical training to enhance their capabilities in handling and maintaining modern military equipment. “Gaining more knowledge will not only improve your technical capacity but also contribute to your mental well-being,” Maj. Gen. Katungi said. He emphasized the importance of continuous learning to keep up with advancements in modern warfare.
Earlier in the day, Maj. Gen. Katungi, representing the Commander of Land Forces, Lt. Gen. Kayanja Muhanga, delivered a lecture to trainees at the same school. He spoke about the critical role the Land Forces play in national security and highlighted the value of support weapons in combat operations. He encouraged the soldiers to serve with integrity, remain patriotic and disciplined, and make savings a priority for their personal development. “Avoid being driven by money, and protect yourselves from HIV/AIDS,” he cautioned.
Col. Simon Onyinge, the Commandant of the training school, advised the soldiers to uphold discipline, remain focused, and avoid reckless behavior. He noted that such specialized training is crucial for enhancing combat readiness and professionalism in the force.
Meanwhile, among the notable officers addressing the graduates was Lt. Col. Ntimba, Commanding Officer of the 12th Artillery Regiment, who reminded the soldiers of the unity and shared mission within the UPDF. “We are one army operating under one command with a shared purpose and goal,” he said.
2nd Lt. Ivan Nawda and Pte. Stella Adakuru were recognized as the best-performing students in the field, earning praise for their exemplary performance.
Mr. Oon Paul Tongwiri, LC I Chairman of North Village, Paimol Sub-County, Agago District, applauded the UPDF for its continued collaboration with the local community, describing the partnership as essential to peace and development in the region.
The ceremony was also attended by the Deputy 5th Infantry Division Commander, Col. David Opeero, along with several other senior and junior UPDF officers.
