Ugandan soldiers progress in learning Russian language
"Our willingness to share knowledge and skills is a testament to the strong bond between Russia and Uganda. We are committed to sponsoring students for advanced Russian language training,” Lt. Col. Richard Ssejemba, the chief instructor at SODIS, said.
Col Vitaly Dimenko (L), head of the Russian delegation being welcomed by UPDF officers during his visit at the School of Defence Intelligence and Security (SODIS) in Migeera, Nakasongola District on March 26 2026. (Courtesy Photo)
NAKASONGOLA - Uganda People's Defence Forces officers learning the Russian language are progressing in a one-year course at the School of Defence Intelligence and Security (SODIS) in Migyeera, Nakasongola district.
The programme, the first of its kind in Uganda, includes officers drawn from the Armoured Division, Artillery Division, Special Forces Command, Defence Intelligence and Security, and other UPDF formations.
“This training ensures our forces can operate seamlessly in joint missions, peacekeeping operations, and humanitarian efforts,” he said.
A group picture of Russian delegation and UPDF offices at the School of Defence Intelligence and Security (SODIS) in Migeera, Nakasongola District on March 26 2026. (Courtesy Photo)
Col Vitaly Dimenko, the head of the Russian delegation, on March 28, 2026, described the initiative as a symbol of trust and co-operation.
"Our willingness to share knowledge and skills is a testament to the strong bond between Russia and Uganda. We are committed to sponsoring students for advanced Russian language training,” Lt. Col. Richard Ssejemba, the chief instructor at SODIS, said.
Ssejemba said this during a visit by a Russian military delegation to the school to assess the progress of Russian language training for officers of the UPDF.
Col Vitaly Dimenko, head of the Russian delegation at the School of Defence Intelligence and Security (SODIS) in Migeera, Nakasongola District on March 26 2026. (Courtesy Photo)
“Our willingness to share knowledge and skills is a testament to the strong bond between Russia and Uganda. We are committed to sponsoring students for advanced Russian language training,” Dimenko said.
Oksana Vasilieve, the Russian chief Instructor, highlighted the students’ enthusiasm and progress.
“The officers are learning at an impressive speed. Their commitment, coupled with the support of the school leadership, has made this success possible,” she said.
Col Vitaly Dimenko (front-left), head of the Russian delegation and right, Lt Col Richard Ssejemba, the Chief Instructor at SODIS plus offices arrive at the School of Defence Intelligence and Security (SODIS) in Migeera, Nakasongola District on March 26 2026. (Courtesy Photo)
he delegation included Maj. Gen. Sergey Marchuk, Lt. Col. Nicolai Boiko, and Lt. Col. Aleksei Razuvanov, among other senior Russian defence officials.
The training program, which started in October last year, intends to equip soldiers with practical skills in reading, writing, speaking, and translating Russian.