Thirty Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces Public Relation Officers and media staff at the Ministry of Defence and Veteran Affairs have successfully completed a Three-day (5th -7th March 2018) training in media planning and management course at Mbuya in Kampala. The course aimed at initiating a process of rapid improvement in the officers general communication skills through achieving the desired communication methods to employ in units, formations and headquarters.
The Ministry of Defence and Veteran Affairs Under Secretary in charge of Finance and Administration, Mrs Edith Buturo in her closing Speech on behalf of the Permanent Secretary Mrs Rosette Byengoma, noted that training allows effective understanding and interpretation of events happening in the environment, adding that it helps in shaping and reconstructing the image of both UPDF and government.
She urged participants to identify, gather and disseminate information that can build the nation, most especially in the field of peace and security. “Do not settle for less when you can achieve more as we move together with the people through fair, balanced and professional reporting,” she said, adding that producing quality work results from having quality staff.
Buturo further implored UPDF Spokespersons and media staff to dedicate their work towards communicating government policies and programs as well as building the image of the institutions they serve.He urged them to always have a very harmonious relationships with the people.
The participants completed training in image building, understanding the media, writing press releases, crisis communication, effective public speaking, photography and captioning among others. Lead facilitators included Mr Ramadhan Goobi, Ms Robie Kakonge, Dr Adolph Mbaine and Mr Bart Kakooza.
The closing ceremony was also addressed by the Defense Spokesperson Brig Richard Karemire who urged the officers to build a professional relationship with the media in their areas of operation and also remain mindful of the core values of the UPDF .The function was also attended by the MODVA Human Resource Commissioner Mr Cox Anguzu and his Principal officer Mr Elias Mparana .
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