At a time when there is a spirited effort to market destination Uganda, a group of 54 students of the Uganda Hotel and Tourism Training Institute (UHTTI) pursuing certificates and diplomas in tourism were on Tuesday, August 13^th passed after successfully completing a three-weeks paramilitary course.

While presiding over the function at the Non-Commissioned Officers Academy, Gaddafi Barracks, the State Minister for Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities, Martin Mugarra, urged the graduates to use the skills they have attained to promote destination Uganda.

The minister in a speech read for him by the ministry’s Principal Assistant Secretary, Mukokha Yusuf, emphasized the importance of the strategic partnership between the Jinja-based hospitality institute and the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF).

“The military plays a pivotal role in providing peace and stability at the destination, something that enables tourism to thrive,” the minister’s speech read in part.

The Jinja Cantonment Commander, Brig. Gen. Emmanuel Kanyesigye, while speaking at the same occasion, urged the graduands to love their country and use lawful means to fight corruption.

“There are complaints about corruption. This is your fight now. For us we are retiring. We want to see you fight corruption in a meaningful way rather than destroying the country,” Brig. Gen. Kanyesigye said.

“Start fighting corruption with yourself. Stop offering bribes in exchange for employment but instead use your integrity,” he added.

He explained that empowering the youth with patriotism and ideology skills is a commitment promised to the people of Uganda which has been exhibited through the actions and the relationship between the UPDF and the civilian community.

Brig. Gen. Kanyesigye urged the graduands to jealously defend the country in good and bad situations, saying that if the youths want a new Uganda, it should be brought peacefully.

“The UPDF is apolitical. We do not take part in partisan politics but we are politically conscious and we can’t allow bad politics,” he said.

Meanwhile, Col. Saad Katemba, the NCOA commandant, said the training was aimed at providing national ideology and security packages towards the tourism sector which highly contributes to the socio-economic development of the country.

“The skills you have acquired should serve the right purpose of protecting tourists. Tourism resources and yourselves when attacked,” Col. Katemba said.

Moses Kaneene, the Deputy Principal of UHTTI, said this is the 10^th paramilitary training and commended the UPDF for the partnership.

“This is a very expensive program but you have assisted us by virtually subsidizing everything,” Kaneene said.

He said they intend to bring on board all students offering hospitality courses to undergo the training.