UBOS staff learn swahili, self-defence and leadership at NALI
Speaking on behalf of the graduates on July 26, 2026, Judith Nansereko admitted many had arrived at the institute expecting the dreaded Mchakamchaka—the military-style drills often associated with NALI training.
The group, which included 16 women, says the experience transformed their outlook on life, leadership, patriotism and public service. (Courtesy photo)
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For four weeks, 40 Uganda Bureau of Statistics (UBOS) staff swapped spreadsheets for parade drills, self-defence lessons and rifle assembly at the National Leadership Institute (NALI) in Kyankwanzi.
The group, which included 16 women, says the experience transformed their outlook on life, leadership, patriotism and public service. They also left with conversational Kiswahili, improved physical fitness and a renewed appreciation of discipline and teamwork.
Speaking on behalf of the graduates on July 26, 2026, Judith Nansereko admitted many had arrived at the institute expecting the dreaded Mchakamchaka—the military-style drills often associated with NALI training.
"We came here expecting to be handled harshly, but we are leaving with a completely different mindset," she said.
"The morning drills have shown us that we can stay fit without spending money on the gym. We have learnt to pace ourselves, build stamina and persevere. This has been a classroom where theory and practice came together," she said.
She added that the friendships forged during the training were likely to last a lifetime because participants had shared demanding experiences that required teamwork and mutual support.
The graduation ceremony featured demonstrations of skills acquired during the course. Blindfolded participants stripped and assembled AK-47 rifles within minutes before displaying goose-stepping drills and martial arts techniques that drew applause from guests.
Addressing the graduates, NALI Director Col. Okei Rukogota urged them to carry the discipline and values acquired during the course into their workplaces.
"If you want results, good health and success, maintain the discipline you have learnt here," he said.
"Set ambitious goals for yourselves. As the country pursues its development agenda, ask yourselves how you will contribute to that journey," he said.
He also called on Ugandans to remain patriotic and safeguard the country's interests against external forces seeking to exploit its resources.
UBOS Deputy Executive Director Fred Senono congratulated the graduates and challenged them to demonstrate the discipline they had acquired.
"I will be looking at your time management, professionalism and commitment at work. The real test begins when you return to your duty stations," Senono said.
He expressed confidence that the graduates would become ambassadors of the values they had acquired and help strengthen teamwork and professionalism across the bureau.