Deputy Speaker of Parliament Thomas Tayebwa has described the National Defence College–Uganda (NDC-U) as a strategic institution vital to the country’s long-term security and development.
Tayebwa made the remarks while delivering a lecture on strategic leadership and civil-military relations to the third cohort of officers at the college in Njeru, Buikwe District.
“This college was founded with a purpose to shape leaders who will have a lasting impact on national security,” Tayebwa said.
He noted that the college is more than a traditional military academy, emphasizing its role in promoting professionalism, discipline, and continuous learning among Uganda’s security forces.
“The UPDF is becoming the most educated security force in the region, and institutions like NDC-U are playing a vital role,” he said. “Empowering human resources with a clear purpose is a sign of strength, and the UPDF is doing exactly that.”
Tayebwa quoted President Yoweri Museveni, highlighting the importance of strategic thinking in leadership. He said effective leaders must anticipate both challenges and opportunities.
Reflecting on Uganda’s history from independence in 1962 to the liberation era in 1986, Tayebwa attributed past political instability to weak civil-military relations. He credited the current professionalism of the Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) for strengthening national stability.
“Today, the UPDF complements civilian leadership and operates within a legal framework that aligns with the people’s interests, earning it respect both at home and internationally,” he said.
Tayebwa urged Ugandans to safeguard the prevailing peace and warned against complacency. He also encouraged leaders to pursue lifelong learning. “Effective leadership requires constant reading, listening, and reflection,” he added.
The National Defence College–Uganda was commissioned in 2021. It has graduated two cohorts and is currently training its third intake of senior leaders in national security and strategic studies.
