33 Officers Complete Communications Regiment Commanders Course

Thirty-three Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) officers completed the Communications Regiment Commanders Course at the School of Communication, Information Technology and Signals in Lugazi, Buikwe District.

The Joint Staff Communications, IT, and Signals, Colonel Simon Rabunyonyi Mwebaza, who presided over the ceremony, challenged the officers to translate the knowledge acquired into practical solutions that would improve operational effectiveness.

He said the communications and IT branch is undergoing significant transformation, in a phased implementation of a five-year communications modernisation programme.

“The software component will come first, followed by the equipment and eventually the establishment of our own network. We must ensure we fully utilise these capabilities and get value for money through continuous training,” he said.

Col Mwebaza highlighted the growing role of locally developed technology within the UPDF, noting that the online recruitment platform currently being used by the force was designed by officers from the Communications, IT and Signals branch.

He said the system has improved efficiency, reduced operational costs and minimised wastage by enabling the force to shortlist qualified applicants before physical screening.

Col Mwebaza urged the officers to embrace innovation and proactively develop solutions that address operational challenges rather than relying solely on conventional approaches.

On professionalism, Col Mwebaza warned that indiscipline would not be tolerated within the communications fraternity because of the sensitive nature of the information handled by the branch.

“As communication leaders, you must uphold professionalism and integrity, protect classified information, and continue learning because technology is evolving rapidly,” he said.

Referring to emerging technologies and evolving battlefields, Col Mwebaza said communications, cyber capabilities and digital systems have become central to modern command and control operations, citing ongoing conflicts around the world as examples of how technology is reshaping warfare.

The Commandant of the School of Communications, IT and Signals, Lt Col Bernard Okol, said the course was designed to prepare communications officers for higher responsibilities as commanders, planners and staff officers within the communications and IT branch.

He said the officers were trained in a wide range of subjects, including operations, combat support, cyber security, electronic warfare, leadership, peace support operations, data networking and communication support planning.

He urged the officers to lead with integrity, discipline and humility while continually improving their professional competence.

“The leadership you demonstrate will directly influence the readiness and effectiveness of the communication capabilities entrusted to your command,” Lt Col Okol said.

The best-performing officers on the course were Captain Dominic Okalebo, who emerged as the Best in Practical, while Lieutenant Richard Magezi, who was recognised as the Best in Academics.

Present were senior and junior officers.