Twenty (20) 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, 20 naval artificer apprentices of the 20th artificer intake of NIT passed out at the main parade ground of NIT in Welisara today (17th May 2024). At the invitation of Acting Training Commander, Commander RS De Soyza, the ceremony was graced by Director General Civil Engineering, Rear Admiral Hiran Balasooriya, as the Chief Guest.

In today’s ceremony, twenty (20) 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 in Welisara. The artificer apprentices who remained outstanding during their training period were presented awards by the Chief Guest, in recognition of their performances.

Accordingly, the Best Marksman of the 20th artificer intake of NIT was Radio Electronic Artificer I TD Vidanage. Meanwhile the Best Sportsman was Engine room Artificer I BRS Rashmika. The award for the Highest Overall Average in Hull Repair & Ship construction Engineering was won by Hull Engineering Artificer I TMKA Thennakoon, Engine room Artificer I CSC Kumara won the award for Highest Overall Average in Marine Engineering. Further, the award for Highest Overall Average in Engineering was secured by Radio Electrical Artificer I TD Vidanage. Similarly, the award for the Best Artificer Apprentice of 20th intake was won by Ship Wright Artificer TMKA Thennakoon.

The Passing out Parade was made more colourful by the entertaining performances presented by Navy Band and Cultural Troupe. The Commander Western Naval Area Rear Admiral Saman Perera, Director General Personnel Rear Admiral Ravindra Tissera, officers from the Navy Headquarters, Western Naval Command and Welisara Naval Complex and sailors were also present on the occasion.

Senior and junior officers as well as sailors from the Western Naval Command and Welisara Naval Complex were present at this event.