Technical proficiency achieved: New batch of naval artificers ready for duty

On successful completion of their training at Naval Institute of Technology (NIT) in Welisara, 32 naval artificer apprentices of the 22nd artificer intake passed out at the main parade ground of NIT in Welisara on 20 Jun 25. The ceremony was graced by Director General Engineering, Rear Admiral Hasantha Dassanaike as the Chief Guest, at the invitation of Director of Studies (NIT), Captain Hemajith Bandara.

This batch of naval artificer apprentices completed their four-year training at NIT and were qualified for the National Diploma in Technology (NDT) offered by the General Sir John Kotelawala Defence University. The artificer apprentices who remained outstanding during their training period were presented awards by the Chief Guest, in recognition of their performances.

Accordingly, Engine Room Apprentice I, MKRN Fernando won the award for the Highest Aggregate in Marine Engineering. The award for the Highest Aggregate in Electrical Engineering was won by Electrical Apprentice I, KDA Kodikara. Meanwhile, Shipwright Apprentice I, LSD Liyanage won the award for the Highest Aggregate in Hull Repair & Ship Construction Engineering. Additionally, Automobile Apprentice II, KGAC Madhuranga secured the award for Highest Aggregate in Automobile Engineering. The awards for the Best Marksman and Highest Aggregate in Electronic and Telecommunication Engineering won by Radio Electrical Apprentice I, RMDTK Rathnayake. Further, Engine Room Apprentice I, PGUD Rathnayake was adjudge the Best Sportsman and Radio Electrical Apprentice I, IGSI Jayasena won the award for Best Artificer Apprentice.

Addressing the passed out sailors, the Chief Guest extended best wishes to them and emphasized that the Navy expects them to remain dedicated and committed to fulfilling their duties with concentrated effort. Newly passed out artificer apprentices exhibited their creative innovations to the attending guests, which was a testament to the technical knowledge and practical skill they gained through the training.

The Passing out Parade was made more colourful by the entertaining performances presented by Navy Band. Director General Training, Rear Admiral Dammika Wijewardana, Commandant Volunteer Naval Force, Rear Admiral HNS Perera, Director General Personnel, Rear Admiral Sanjeewa Premerathna, Deputy Area Commander Western Naval Area, Commodore Buddika Jayaweera, a group of officers and sailors as wells near and dear ones of the passed out sailors were present on this occasion.