Forty-five (45) naval artificer apprentices pass out after successful completion of training at Naval Institute of Technology

On successful completion of their training at Naval Institute of Technology (NIT) in Welisara, 45 naval artificer apprentices of the 21st artificer intake of NIT passed out at the main parade ground of NIT in Welisara today (20th December 2024). At the invitation of Acting Training Commander (E), Commander RS De Soyza, the ceremony was graced by Director General Electrical and Electronic Engineering, Rear Admiral Prashantha Anthony, as the Chief Guest.

In today’s ceremony, those 45 naval artificer apprentices who completed their four-year training at NIT and were qualified for the National Diploma in Technology (NDT) offered by General Sir John Kotelawala Defence University, passed out in a dignified sequence. The artificer apprentices who remained outstanding during their training period were presented awards by the Chief Guest, in recognition of their performances.

Engine Room Artificer I WGRP Rathnayake won the award for Highest Aggregate in Marine Engineering. The award for Highest Aggregate in Electrical Engineering was won by Electrical Artificer I KAHID Fernando. Highest Aggregate in Electronic and Telecommunication Engineering was secured by Radio Electronic Artificer I KD Samson. Highest Aggregate in Hull Repair & Ship Construction Engineering was won by Shipwright Artificer I GMH Lakshan. Highest Aggregate in Automobile Engineering was secured by Automotive Artificer I RMCDD Rathnayake. Electrical Artificer I WMRKL Weerasinghe was adjudged the Best Marksman and the award for Best Sportsman was won by Electrical Artificer I RMDS Rathnayake. Meanwhile, the Best Marksman of the 21st artificer intake of NIT was Electrical Artificer I KAHID Fernando.

Addressing the newly passed out sailors, Rear Admiral Prashantha Anthony extended his heartfelt congratulations to the fresh batch of artificers. He urged them to build upon the technical expertise gained during their training and emphasized the importance of dedicating themselves to safeguarding the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the nation through their contributions to the Navy's maritime security efforts. Additionally, he expressed sincere gratitude to the parents for their unwavering support and encouragement, which motivated the sailors to complete their training successfully, and to the training staff for their dedication and commitment in shaping the sailors' skills and professionalism.

An exhibition showcasing inventions created by artificers during their training was also organized alongside the passing out ceremony, with Rear Admiral Prashantha Anthony attending to observe the innovative displays.

The Passing out Parade was made more colourful by the entertaining performances presented by Navy Band and Cultural Troupe. The Director General Personnel, Rear Admiral Ravindra Tissera, Director Marine Engineering, Rear Admiral Hasantha Dassanaike, officers from the Navy Headquarters, Western Naval Command and Welisara Naval Complex, sailors and parents of artificer apprentices were also present on the occasion.