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Nakasongola, Uganda | THE INDEPENDENT | The Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) has started Arabic and Chinese courses to enable soldiers to effectively communicate with their counterparts from countries speaking the two dialects. The new courses have been launched at the Military Intelligence School in Nakasongola district.
Maj Gen Charles Birungi, who is the commander of the Chieftaincy of Military Intelligence (CMI) launched the courses that will be taught in partnership with the Makerere University School of Languages.
Maj Gen Birungi lauded Makerere University’s Dean School of Languages for partnering with the UPDF for what he referred to as a noble cause for the country. “This is indeed an important milestone for the entire UPDF fraternity and the country. This course comes at a time when the new world order, globalization, and advances in technology have brought new opportunities and challenges that require effective communication skills to avoid ambiguities and the possibility of being misunderstood and navigating through multicultural and intricate partnerships,” Maj Gen Birungi said.
Birungi implored the trainees to be focused and have a positive attitude to be able them harness as much knowledge as they can to succeed in the Arabic and Chinese language courses. “This training will prepare you to become certified linguists on your job specification especially interpretation, translation, and being subject matter experts on cultural Issues, among others,” Birungi added.
Col James Muhumuza the Commandant of the School said that the course aims to produce trainees who can effectively read, listen, write, speak, and translate.
Muhumuza cited the historical perspective of the power of language particularly being a power of unity.
Gilbert Gumoshabe, the Director of the Confucius Institute – Makerere University, expressed gratitude for entrusting the University with the formation of the new language curriculum because it addresses the need for knowledge of other foreign languages besides English.
The event that took place at Kaweweta was graced by other senior military officers as well Chinese officials who include Brig Gen Bonny Wolimbwa, Brig Gen Tom Kabuye, Brig Gen Kenneth Shillingi, Asaba Charles, and Dr Zhong Jianghua Chinese Director Confucius Institute – Makerere University among others.
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