“Avoid tattoos and maintain maximum discipline,” Captain Mukula advises aviation graduands

12 April 2025, 10:51 am

By Ronald Ssemagonja

The Vice Chairman of the Board of Directors at Uganda Aviation Academy, Captain Mike Mukula, has urged aviation graduates to uphold the discipline they acquired during their training and to avoid tattoos on their bodies. This was during the 13th graduation ceremony of Uganda Aviation Academy at Protea Hotel, Kampala. Over 130 students from various countries graduated in different disciplines, such as cabin crew and airport operations, among others, and all received their certificates.

“When I see you like this, I see our dreams come true, of flying high. You’re flying high. I thank the parents from the bottom of my heart for their sacrifices and support of your dreams, because this is not a cheap investment. We have students who have joined Qatar Airlines, Emirates, Fly Dubai, Uganda Airlines, Air Tanzania, Rwanda Air, Kenya Airways, and American Airlines. Avoid tattoos—aviators don’t walk with tattoos. If Emirates or Qatar come here and find you with tattoos, be assured that no matter how beautiful or excellent your credentials are, they will not take you. Aviation is the most disciplined industry in the world, so be aware that aviation has its own discipline and order,” Mukula said.

He went on to thank the government for its efforts to expand the aviation sector. “I want to thank Uganda Airlines and the president because, very soon, they intend to acquire additional aircraft, including cargo planes, to ensure Uganda Airlines can expand its wings. Very soon, Uganda Airlines will be flying to the UK. Staff like you will be needed on the new aircraft. So, prepare yourselves. Now that you have been trained, I look forward to writing letters of recommendation for you. I thank the Board of Directors and our guests from Kenya for coming,” he added.

The Board of Directors of Uganda Aviation Academy, Goggi Biriggwa, in her address, thanked the board for their excellent work and congratulated the students on their achievements. “I know the journey has not been easy, as some of you have had other responsibilities, but you have managed to persevere. I also thank the parents for supporting you and the school,” Goggi said. She added that the graduates can apply to any international aviation authority and be employed, as the academy is internationally recognised.

Esther Kasali from Kenya emphasised that, without discipline, it does not matter how good or excellent you are; you cannot be retained in a serious industry like aviation. She urged the graduates to keep this in mind. She also noted that regional integration is no longer optional, but a necessity. “When Africa speaks with one voice, we can negotiate success, strengthen our currency, protect our borders, and create more jobs for you, our youth,” she said.

On behalf of the Uganda Civil Aviation Authority, Olivia Birungi, who was the chief guest, applauded Uganda Aviation Academy for fighting unemployment by training young people. “It has taken a lot of determination, focus, resilience, and commitment to get you this far. Congratulations on the effort you have put in. Thank you to the parents for sacrificing and supporting the dreams of your children. I have seen about 72 women graduating today. Thank you to the academy for supporting women’s empowerment. To the students, let people know that you can achieve great things and show them that you care. We are happy at UCAA that this school is compliant. The demand for aviation skills continues to rise, especially with upcoming airports like Kabalega. I encourage young people not to focus on just one thing; you have what it takes to be whatever you want in life, but remember, discipline is key,” she said.