UPDF Passes Out Russian Language Course Graduands

What the report says

The Uganda People’s Defence Forces has graduated officers and militants who completed a one-year Russian language course at the School of Defence Intelligence and Security in Migyera, Nakasongola District. According to Watchdog Uganda, the intake brought together personnel from different UPDF formations and was intended to build language skills for professional growth, future duties and international engagement.

The ceremony was attended by senior UPDF officers, Russian military representatives and other guests. Speaking on behalf of the Chief of Defence Forces, Major General Henry Masiko said the training marked an important point in Uganda-Russia military ties and praised the decision to conduct the course locally with support from Russian experts. He said this avoided the need to send personnel abroad for similar training. The school’s leadership and training command also said the programme was meant to strengthen capacity within the force.

Maj Gen Wycliffe Keita, who heads Joint Staff Training and Doctrine, urged the graduates to keep practising the language so the skills do not fade. The Russian side described the graduation as part of wider cooperation between the two countries. In broader context, military language training can support liaison work, exchanges and technical coordination, especially when armed forces maintain partnerships with foreign counterparts.