New batch of prospective sailors sets sail from Poonewa
Marking another significant stride in the Navy’s continuous efforts to bolster its maritime defence capability, 306 naval recruits ceremonially passed out upon the successful completion of their basic training at SLNS Shiksha, Poonewa, on 13 Sep 25.
This vibrant passing-out parade was held at the main parade ground of SLNS Shiksha under the patronage of the Director General Logistics, Rear Admiral Ruwan Kalubowila, who graced the occasion at the invitation of the Commandant and Commanding Officer SLNS Shiksha, Captain Luxman Amarasinghe.
The passed out 260th recruit intake comprised 273 personnel from the Regular Naval Force, including 177 male and 96 women recruits and 33 personnel from the Volunteer Naval Force, including 14 male and 19 women recruits. Having chosen a challenging yet noble career, they will now be assigned to various branches of the Sri Lanka Navy, contributing to national security and maritime operations.
During the ceremony, outstanding recruits were presented with special awards by the Chief Guest in recognition of their excellence in training:
• Recruit IS Dilshan – Best Recruit
• Woman Recruit MGEHNS Munasinghe – Highest Aggregate in All Subjects
• Recruit PGKD Jayarathna – Best Sportsman (Men)
• Woman Recruit MMHS Perera – Best Sportsman (Women)
• Recruit HSM Chandrathilaka – Best Marksman
• Hemamali Division – Best Division
Addressing the new batch of prospective sailors, Rear Admiral Kalubowila congratulated them on their achievements and noted that the knowledge, skills, and discipline gained through the training will be invaluable in fulfilling their future naval duties as well as in their personal lives. He also highlighted the Navy’s continued efforts to increase women’s participation in its ranks and thanked the parents who entrusted their sons and daughters to serve the nation through a noble career. Furthermore, he commended the directing staff of SLNS Shiksha for their dedication to shaping the recruits into disciplined and capable sailors.
The colourful ceremony also featured a dazzling drill display by the newly passed-out recruits, spirited performances by the Navy Band and Cultural Troupe, and a captivating demonstration of the traditional martial art ‘Angam Haramba’.
The event was attended by the Commander North Central Naval Area, Rear Admiral Indika De Silva; Acting Director General Administration, Commodore Danesh Pathberiya; flag-rank officers, officers and sailors from the North Central Naval Command, distinguished invitees, and proud parents of the passed-out recruits.
