The Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) has graduated 178 officers who successfully completed a five-month Company Commanders’ Course (CCC) Intake 27/25-26 at the School of Infantry in Bihanga, in a move aimed at strengthening leadership and operational effectiveness within the force.
The pass-out ceremony was presided over by the Commander of the 2 Infantry Division, Maj Gen Paul Muhanguzi, representing the Deputy Commander Land Forces.
Addressing the graduates, Maj Gen Muhanguzi urged the newly trained officers to apply the leadership and command skills acquired during the course to improve performance within their respective units.
“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,” he said. “The UPDF expects you to become commanders who lead by example, uphold discipline, and safeguard the values of our institution.”
He reminded the officers of the heavy responsibility entrusted to commanders, particularly in ensuring the welfare, discipline, training, and combat readiness of soldiers under their command.
“The knowledge gained here should improve operational effectiveness in your formations. Continue learning, remain disciplined, and uphold the core values of the UPDF, including loyalty, integrity, patriotism, and professionalism,” Maj Gen Muhanguzi added.
The Commandant of the School of Infantry, Brig Gen Godfrey Golooba, commended the officers for their resilience and dedication throughout the demanding training programme.
He noted that the Company Commanders’ Course remains one of the UPDF’s key professional military education programmes designed to prepare officers for higher command responsibilities.
“This course was deliberately structured to broaden your understanding of command, leadership, and troop management,” Brig Gen Golooba said. “Command demands competence, integrity, and the ability to make timely decisions under difficult circumstances.”
He further encouraged the graduates to remain committed to professionalism, mission accomplishment, and integrity as they take on future assignments.
Chief Instructor Col Ssebagala revealed that the officers underwent both theoretical and practical instruction in various command-related disciplines aimed at producing capable and effective company commanders.
“The officers demonstrated commitment, endurance, and willingness to learn. They have been prepared to understand the demands of command and execute responsibilities with confidence,” he said.
Col Ssebagala emphasized that graduation marked the beginning of greater responsibility and 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 ceremony was attended by senior and junior officers, representatives from sister security agencies, and local community leaders.
