UPDF, India Strengthen Security Ties as NFSU Uganda Marks Independence Day

What the report says

Uganda and India are widening their cooperation beyond standard diplomatic engagement, with a focus on forensic science training, institutional exchanges and broader security ties, according to Nile Post. The remarks came during events marking India’s Independence Day at the National Forensic Sciences University (NFSU) Uganda campus in Jinja, where UPDF officials, NFSU management, students and members of the Indian community gathered.

Brigadier General Alex Olupot Opolot, commandant of the National Defence College-Uganda and the chief guest, said India has played a meaningful role in Uganda’s socio-economic development, particularly through investment in industry and healthcare. He also praised NFSU for creating a space that brings Ugandans and Indians together while supporting bilateral relations.

NFSU-Uganda campus director Air Commodore Thaakar said the two countries share historical experiences shaped by colonial rule and the struggle for independence, while urging continued vigilance against emerging threats. The university, which focuses on forensic science and related fields, is presented as an important channel for cooperation in criminal investigations, national security and justice. Nile Post also noted that the campus offers more than 70 postgraduate programmes and trains participants from around 95 countries.

The celebration also included recognition of the 150th anniversary of India’s national song, Vande Mataram. The UPDF’s presence at the event reflects the wider areas of Uganda-India cooperation mentioned in the report, including education, healthcare and investment.