The Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) took part in Gayaza High School’s Career Day, joining other government ministries, agencies, and corporate organisations to expose students to the variety of career paths available within the military.
Lt Col Nimanya, Head of Operations at the Directorate of Civil-Military Cooperation in the Office of the Political Commissariat, highlighted the dual purpose of the UPDF’s involvement.
“We represent almost all professions here,” Lt Col Nimanya said, addressing common misconceptions about military careers. “We have pilots in the UPDF. We have engineers, doctors, and teachers.”
He pointed out that students are key stakeholders in Uganda’s defence and security, and are central to the country’s socio-economic transformation.
Lt Col Nimanya noted that many Ugandans tend to see the UPDF only as a combat force. However, the UPDF has evolved significantly in line with Article 209 of the Ugandan Constitution, which requires the force to be productive and to support civilian authorities during emergencies and natural disasters.
He encouraged students considering a military career to view it as a service to the nation rather than just a job, emphasising the importance of sacrifice and patriotism.
Mr Kalyango Patrick, Education Officer and Head of the Careers Department at Gayaza High School, welcomed the UPDF’s participation.
“Today has been a wonderful day for us. We organise this Careers Day annually, and this year we are honoured to host the UPDF,” he said.
He noted that students learned about various opportunities within the UPDF, such as medical roles and engineering, inspiring them to align their career goals with national service.
The UPDF’s involvement in the Gayaza High School Career Day is part of its wider commitment to engage with educational institutions and the public.
