Navy Commander Chief Guest at Prefects' Day of Defence Services College, Colombo
The Commander of the Navy, Vice Admiral Damian Fernando, attended Prefects' Day at the Defence Services College in Colombo on 3 November 2026, as the Chief Guest.
The Navy Chief graced the ceremony following an invitation extended by the Director of the College, Brigadier Anil Priyadarshana, Principal Mrs. Madhuka Daasaman Fernando and the teaching staff.
Upon arrival, Vice Admiral Fernando received a warm welcome from the Director and Principal, followed by a ceremonial guard of honour presented by the school's cadet platoon. Head Prefect Master Sadevu Akash and Head Prefect Miss Tanisha Diumali ushered the Navy Commander to the assembly hall and delivered the welcome speech.
Addressing the gathering as Chief Guest, the Navy Commander said it was an honour to attend the occasion. He stressed that teachers, parents and student leaders bear a special responsibility to protect children from the drug menace now reaching the doorstep of schools.
The Navy Commander also explained the Navy's work with law enforcement agencies to safeguard the nation's future generations from drugs, urging teachers, parents and students to remain especially vigilant against the various forms of inducement in society aimed at drawing children toward drug use.
Reflecting on his school days, Vice Admiral Fernando noted that the challenges faced by prefects today differ significantly from those of the past. As a parent of children belonging to Generation Z, he emphasized that adult guardians and prefects must understand these modern pressures and guide students.
He reminded the prefects that true leadership requires leading by example, prioritizing service over status, and treating peers with fairness, honesty and mutual respect.
During the proceedings, the Navy Commander awarded certificates to students who won the "Phoenix Labyrinth" leadership activity programme held in conjunction with Prefects' Day. School authorities presented a memento to Vice Admiral Fernando to mark his visit.
The event was attended by Colonel Bandula Serasinghe, Deputy Director of Administration; Deputy Principals Ms. Nidasthi Abeysekara, Mr. Arosha Jayasinghe and Mr. Krishan Manoj; Assistant Principals Ms. KD Mangalika, Ms. Dinuka Perera and Ms. Darshika Sirimanne; together with the college's academic staff, students and prefects from invited schools.