Summary:
- Some were disqualified due to various health issues such as hernias, ringworm infections, extensive scars, and physical fitness limitations, including the inability to run.
KASESE: The Uganda People’s Defense Forces (UPDF) have disclosed that a significant number of individuals who did not participate in the standard recruitment process in Kasese district were found to have presented falsified academic credentials.
Some were disqualified due to various health issues such as hernias, ringworm infections, extensive scars, and physical fitness limitations, including the inability to run.
The UPDF is currently in the process of recruiting 9,627 young people between the ages of 18 and 22 to join their ranks nationwide. In Kasese district, the physical screening and recruitment of shortlisted candidates commenced on Monday and concluded on Tuesday at Rwenzori Square in Kasese town.
Major Bilal Katamba, the UPDF Public Information Officer for the Mountain Division and Operation Shujja, noted that while the recruitment process proceeded smoothly overall, a significant number of candidates were disqualified for presenting fraudulent Uganda Certificate of Education (UCE) documents or failing to pass medical examinations. As a result, only candidates with genuine documentation, both male and female, were considered eligible.
In Kasese, out of the initial 261 candidates, only 140 have qualified and been selected to attend military training at Kaweweta Army Training School.
The UPDF officer commended the district’s political leaders and security personnel, particularly the Resident District Commissioner (RDC), for their pivotal role in ensuring the orderly conduct of the exercise.
Ham Natuhwera, the Vice Chairperson of Kasese District, expressed disappointment at the revelation that some youths had not completed their O-level education. He urged parents to prioritize guiding their children towards acquiring formal education, emphasizing its importance in preparing them for future employment opportunities.
