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The Joint Staff Communications, Information Technology and Signals, Col Simon Rabunyonyi Mwebaza, has called on newly trained Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) communications officers to apply the knowledge and skills acquired during their training to develop practical solutions that enhance operational effectiveness and strengthen the force’s communications capabilities.
He made the remarks while presiding over the pass-out of 33 officers who successfully completed the Communications Regiment Commanders Course at the School of Communications, Information Technology and Signals in Lugazi, Buikwe District.
Col Mwebaza said the Communications, IT and Signals branch is undergoing significant transformation through the phased implementation of a five-year communications modernisation programme aimed at enhancing the UPDF’s command, control and communication capabilities.
“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.
He 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.
Col Mwebaza said the system has improved efficiency, reduced operational costs and minimised wastage by enabling the force to shortlist qualified applicants before physical screening.
He urged the graduating officers to embrace innovation and proactively develop solutions that address operational challenges instead of relying solely on conventional approaches.
Col Mwebaza also emphasised the importance of professionalism, warning 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 noted that 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, Information Technology 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, IT and Signals branch.
He said the officers underwent training in a wide range of subjects, including operations, combat support, cyber security, electronic warfare, leadership, peace support operations, data networking and communication support planning.
Lt Col Okol urged the graduates 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,” he said.
The best-performing officers on the course were Capt Dominic Okalebo, who emerged as the Best in Practical, and Lt Richard Magezi, who was recognised as the Best in Academics.
The pass-out ceremony was attended by senior and junior officers.
, https://nilepost.co.ug/news/357490/updf-urges-communications-officers-to-embrace-innovation-and-modern-technology
