The Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) has successfully passed out soldiers who completed a three-month Tactical Radio Operators Course held at the Headquarters Uganda Rapid Deployment Capability (HQ URDC) in Jinja.
The training was designed to improve the communication skills of soldiers, especially in modern and fast-changing operational environments. The course focused on preparing officers to become highly skilled radio operators who can handle critical communication tasks during military missions. It also aimed at strengthening the overall effectiveness of UPDF operations through better coordination and faster information sharing.
Speaking during the pass-out ceremony, the Commander of HQ URDC, Brigadier General Ernest Nuwagaba, praised the course as an important step in building the capacity of the force. He noted that communication plays a key role in the success of any military operation and emphasized that well-trained communicators are essential for responding to today’s security challenges. He encouraged the graduates to always apply the knowledge they have gained with discipline, integrity, and professionalism in their duties.
Representing the Joint Staff Communications and Information Technology (JSCIT), the Commandant of the School of ICT Lugazi, Lt Col Bernady Okol, also commended HQ URDC for investing in continuous training. He explained that modern military operations require officers who are not only skilled but also able to respond quickly and effectively in urgent situations. He highlighted that technology is constantly changing, and communicators must keep improving to remain effective.
The Head of Communications at HQ URDC, Maj Christian Kennedy Agaba, revealed that this was the fifth intake of the Tactical Radio Operators Course. He added that the programme was fully sponsored by HQ URDC and was carefully designed to equip personnel with advanced communication skills needed in modern military operations. He expressed pride in the progress made so far and the growing competence of the trainees.
The pass-out ceremony was attended by several senior and junior officers from HQ URDC and Jinja Cantonment Headquarters, as well as the Head of the Civilian Component at HQ URDC, Ms Allen Ruhangataremwa, among other guests. The event marked another milestone in strengthening the UPDF’s communication capacity and readiness for operational duties.
