Hundreds Turn Up for UPDF Recruitment Exercise in Mukono
By Evans Najuna
MUKONO – Hundreds of young Ugandans from Mukono and neighbouring districts have turned up in large numbers for the ongoing Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) recruitment exercise, hoping to secure an opportunity to join the national army.
The Friday, August 21, exercise attracted applicants from Mukono, Kayunga, Buvuma and Buikwe, with candidates undergoing a series of physical, medical and academic assessments to determine their suitability for military service.
One of the most challenging moments came after a four-kilometre fitness run designed to test the applicants’ physical endurance. Among those who struggled during the exercise was Abdalla Nahate, a native of Butaleja District.
Nahate reportedly collapsed after the demanding run and became distressed, pleading with the medical team to return his academic documents so that he could leave the recruitment centre and return home.
He reportedly told the medical team that he had failed to make it into the army.
Nahate was later rushed to Mukono Referral Hospital for further medical attention.
His ordeal highlighted the demanding nature of the UPDF recruitment process, in which applicants are expected to meet strict physical, medical and academic requirements before being considered for enlistment.
According to the recruitment guidelines, eligible Ugandan applicants are not required to pay money to join the UPDF. Candidates report to designated recruitment centres, where they undergo several stages of screening, including physical fitness tests and medical examinations.
Applicants who fail to meet the required standards at any stage are released from the exercise. In some cases, candidates may be referred through their respective district representatives, while those with medical conditions that can be addressed may be advised to seek treatment and return when appropriate.
Medical screening covers a range of health conditions, as well as dental health and physical fitness. Candidates found to have conditions requiring further medical attention may be advised to return home for treatment rather than proceed with the recruitment process.
The recruitment exercise in Mukono is expected to conclude tomorrow with the screening of applicants from Buikwe District, as medical teams continue assessing candidates competing for the available opportunities to join the UPDF.
For many of the young people gathered at the recruitment centre, the exercise represents more than a test of physical endurance. It is an opportunity to pursue a career in the military, serve their country and build a future in the national army.
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