Africa-Press – Uganda. The Commandant of the Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) Air Force College Brigadier General Allan Kalanzi, has emphasised the critical role of continuous training in ensuring military effectiveness and mission success.
He made the remarks a the graduation of 33 personnel from the Air Defence Operations Officers Course, marking a significant milestone in strengthening the force’s operational readiness and air defence capability.
“In the military, training is one of the most important activities after operations. Its ultimate aim is to prepare individuals and units for success in operations,” he said at the pass-out ceremony held at the Air Operations and Command Centre (AOCC) in Entebbe.
Brig Gen Kalanzi called upon the newly trained officers to uphold discipline, professionalism, and dedication in the execution of their duties. He also cautioned against corruption and discouraged what he termed “allowance nomadism,” urging personnel to remain focused on service delivery and national duty.
Brig Gen Kalanzi stated that ongoing efforts to enhance operational capacity through sustained training programs, while noting that leadership remains committed to addressing challenges related to infrastructure, human resources, and personnel welfare.
The Commander of AOCC, Lieutenant Colonel Benon Byakureme, described the course as a critical component in the professional development of Air Force personnel. He underscored its importance in equipping officers with the necessary skills to operate effectively within increasingly complex air defence environments.
“This course reflects the commitment of both the trainees and the institution to excellence in operational readiness. The officers have been prepared to operate within the complex air defence and AOCC environment,” he said.
Lt Col Byakureme added that the transformation exhibited by the graduates is a testament to disciplined training, teamwork, and professional dedication, noting that the AOCC continues to play a pivotal role in enhancing airspace surveillance as well as command and control capabilities.
During the ceremony, several trainees were recognized for outstanding performance. Major Richard Tayebwa received the award for best leadership, Lieutenant Vincent Abitegeka was named best team player, Sergeant Byaruhanga Godfrey emerged as the best overall student in both theory and practical assessments, while Private Kinyeera Moses was honored for excellence in practical and system operations.
The ceremony was attended by senior and junior UPDF Air Force officers, including Brigadier General Richard Rubongoya, Director of Human Resource Air Force, Colonel Mango Baraza (DHRM-SFC), and other distinguished guests, alongside serving and retired personnel.
The successful completion of the Air Defence Operations Officers Course underscores the UPDF Air Force’s continued commitment to building a highly skilled, professional, and mission-ready force capable of safeguarding Uganda’s airspace.
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