The Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) 3 Infantry Division passed out 63 Non-Commissioned Officers (NCOs) who completed a six-month Communication, Information, Technology and Signals (CITS) Level III course conducted at the division headquarters.
The ceremony was presided over by the Deputy Division Commander, Brigadier General Allan Kyangungu.
Brig Gen Kyangungu commended the decision to conduct the technical course at the division level, describing the intake as an exceptional group that excelled under the localised training framework.
He praised the trainees for their performance in foot drills, emphasising the importance of military discipline.
“The foundation of a soldier is being able to perfect drill before any speciality,” Brig Gen Kyangungu said.
Brig Gen Kyangungu commended unit commanders for the inclusion of female combatants for the signals course.
He urged the combatants to use the qualification as a stepping stone for further professional growth and cautioned them against the misuse of social media, especially in matters relating to military communication and security.
Speaking at the ceremony, the Division Operations and Training Officer (DOTO), Colonel Santorino Tumuryanze, reminded the soldiers that their professional journey was only beginning.
“You have all come from far and are yet to go far,” Col Tumuryanze said.
He emphasised that effective communication and signals are critical to the success of UPDF operations and urged the graduates to remain committed to their duties while maintaining physical and medical fitness.
The Chief Instructor of the School of CITS, Maj Charles Kiiza, on behalf of the Commandant, Lt Col B. Okol, expressed confidence in the soldiers’ readiness to undertake duties within the signals branch.
Pte Adong Josephine emerged as the overall best student, while L/Cpl Musoda Umar received the award for best leadership. Pte Kasada Richard Peter was recognised as the most disciplined trainee, and Pte Chemuatai Lillian, among others.
The event was attended by brigade commanders, senior and junior officers, as well as senior and junior Non-Commissioned Officers from the 3 Infantry Division
