Why every young leader needs structured leadership training

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OPINION

By Jackline Turinayo

Recently, I had the rare privilege of attending a seven-week residential leadership training at the Institute of Security and Strategic Studies in Entebbe. What initially appeared to be a demanding professional programme quickly unfolded into a transformative life experience, one that reshaped my understanding of leadership, discipline, citizenship, patriotism, and service to one’s country. From the very first day, it became clear that this was not merely a training course, but a deliberate process of character formation and national orientation.

The program was intensive and holistic in nature, carefully structured to engage the mind, body, and spirit. It combined academic instruction, physical conditioning, moral guidance, and social responsibility, ensuring that participants were developed as complete individuals. We were introduced to a wide range of subjects, including Kiswahili, leadership studies, scientific thinking, human rights, parade and drills, civic responsibility, and the history of Uganda. Each subject was thoughtfully selected and purposefully delivered to cultivate disciplined, patriotic, and socially conscious citizens capable of contributing meaningfully to national development.

One of the most striking aspects of the training was the exceptional quality of instruction. The lecturers, trainers, and drill instructors demonstrated a remarkable level of professionalism, competence, and dedication. They were articulate, knowledgeable, and deeply committed to the ideals of service and national transformation. Beyond teaching content, they embodied the very principles they sought to instill; integrity, discipline, responsibility, and selflessness. Every lecture and practical session challenged us to think critically, act ethically, and hold ourselves to higher personal and professional standards. Their leadership by example left a lasting impression and reinforced the idea that true leadership begins with character.

The physical training and drills were among the most demanding yet memorable components of the program. Conducted under the intense Entebbe sun, the drills tested our physical endurance, mental strength, and emotional resilience. Commands such as “nyuma gehuka” (turn back) still echo vividly in my mind. Though physically exhausting, these exercises offered a powerful insight into the discipline, sacrifice, and commitment required of the men and women who protect and serve our nation. They fostered a deep respect for duty, teamwork, obedience, and perseverance, reminding us that national security and stability are built on unwavering discipline and collective effort.

A particularly transformative lesson from the program was the intentional and disciplined management of time. Every hour of the day was structured, purposeful, and accounted for, leaving no room for idleness or complacency. This rigorous schedule exposed how much time many of us unknowingly waste on distractions, particularly unproductive engagement with social media and other non-essential activities. At the Institute, time was treated as a precious resource; one to be respected, protected, and used productively. I returned home with a renewed commitment to valuing my time and using it deliberately to pursue meaningful goals.

Closely tied to time management was the uncompromising emphasis on punctuality. Punctuality was non-negotiable; lateness was not tolerated. While I had always valued timekeeping, this training elevated my standards significantly. I became more organized, more disciplined in my daily routines, and more accountable in both individual and collective responsibilities. Punctuality came to symbolise respect for time, others, for duty, and for the mission at hand.

Teamwork emerged as a central pillar of the training experience. Through shared accommodation, group assignments, drills, and collective responsibilities, I learned that leadership is not about individual brilliance or personal recognition, but about collective strength and shared purpose. The program reinforced the understanding that no single person possesses all the answers or abilities. Success is achieved through unity, cooperation, mutual respect, and a willingness to support one another. These lessons reshaped my perception of leadership as a collaborative rather than individual pursuit.

Equally profound was the lesson of obedience and respect for authority. I learned firsthand that even minor acts of disobedience or negligence can have far-reaching consequences for an entire group. This reinforced the importance of rules, structure, and order as essential frameworks for safety, effectiveness, discipline, and growth. Obedience, when guided by purpose and integrity, becomes a foundation for collective success and national stability.

The physical fitness component was both challenging and deeply revealing. It exposed personal weaknesses, tested limits, and forced me to confront areas of neglect in my health and discipline. This marked a turning point in my perception of physical fitness as a critical pillar of endurance, mental resilience, emotional stability, and leadership capacity. I now appreciate fitness as essential to sustaining the demands of leadership and service.

Living with limited resources was another humbling and enlightening experience. With only a few sets of clothing, shared facilities, and minimal personal comforts, I learned the value of simplicity, contentment, and resilience. This lifestyle nurtured patience, tolerance, adaptability, and a strong sense of community, values often overlooked in today’s fast-paced, comfort-driven society. It reminded me that fulfilment is not found in abundance, but in purpose, discipline, and meaningful relationships.

By the time I completed the program, I emerged with a renewed sense of purpose and clarity. I left determined to be a better citizen, a more responsible leader, a better wife, a more intentional mother, and a better member of society. The training instilled in me a profound sense of responsibility to myself, my community and country.

This experience reaffirmed a critical truth: while leaders may be born, leadership must be intentionally developed. Programs such as the one offered by the Institute of Security and Strategic Studies are indispensable, particularly for young people and emerging leaders. They go beyond imparting knowledge; they mold character, instill discipline, foster patriotism, and prepare individuals for selfless service. In a time when our nation urgently needs principled, focused, disciplined, and service-oriented leadership, such training is not a luxury but rather it is a necessity.

baganizijackie@gamil.com