UPDF Air Force Passes Out 76 Officers to Enhance Operational Leadership
The Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) Air Force has passed out 76 officers who successfully completed the Squadron Officers Course at the Air Force College in Nakasongola.
The ceremony, held at the college, marked a significant milestone in the professional development of the officers, who are now poised to take on greater command responsibilities.
Speaking on behalf of the Chief of Defence Forces (CDF), General Muhoozi Kainerugaba, the Commander Air Force, Lieutenant General Charles Okidi, underscored the strategic importance of the course. He noted that the training was designed to transform officers from tactical executors into operational leaders, honing their mental resilience, strategic judgment, and command ability.
“Over the past months, you have been challenged to rise above pressure, make critical decisions, and work as a team. Having navigated this demanding curriculum, you have proven that you are ready to shoulder the responsibility of command,” Lt Gen Okidi told the graduates.
He emphasized that squadron-level officers are central to the Air Force’s operational readiness and urged them to ensure the force remains prepared to project power and respond effectively whenever called upon.
Prior to the pass-out, Lt Gen Okidi commissioned new dormitories at the college—a development he said underscores the Air Force’s commitment to improving the welfare and learning environment for both students and staff.
The Commandant of the Air Force College, Brigadier General Allan Kalanzi, urged the graduates to apply the knowledge and skills acquired during the course in their future assignments. He stressed that leadership begins with action and discipline, calling on the officers to lead by example.
Brig Gen Kalanzi described the squadron as the heart of the Air Force and highlighted the importance of continuous and transformative training in preparing the force to meet current and future security challenges. He encouraged the officers to view the course as a key milestone in their professional growth, reminding them that career development in the military is a continuous process.
The ceremony was attended by the Under-Secretary Finance and Administration, Mrs. Edith Buturo; the Under-Secretary Logistics, Mr. Francis Kahirita Ngabirano; Deputy Commander Land Force, Maj Gen Joseph Ssemwanga; Deputy Commander Air Force, Maj Gen David Isimbwa; the Chief of Defence Intelligence and Security, Maj Gen Richard Otto; Joint Staff Human Resource Management, Maj Gen James Kinalwa; Service Chiefs of Staff, Joint Staffs, as well as senior and junior officers.
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