Defence Secretary Graces NDC Graduation Ceremony

• Our challenges demand leaders who can think beyond conventional military paradigms - Defence Secretary

"We live in an era where traditional military challenges intersect with cyber security threats, climate change implications, economic security and information warfare. The Indian Ocean Region, our periphery, stands at the crossroads of global maritime commerce and strategic competition. Our challenges demand leaders who can think beyond conventional military paradigms and understand the multidimensional nature of modern security challenges.

The Defence Secretary Air Vice Marshal Sampath Thuyacontha (Retd) said so while taking the stage as the Chief Guest at the National Defence College (NDC) graduation ceremony at the General Sir John Kotelawala Defence University today (Nov 18).

The distinguished Chief Guest was warmly received by the Commandant of NDC, Major General Sujeewa Senarath Yapa, upon his arrival at the occasion.

The Defence Secretary further said, "The NDC is poised to undergo a significant transformation from next year onwards, as the course will open its doors to civil sector officials. This decision reflects the growing recognition that national security is a collective responsibility, requiring the involvement of all governance sectors. Government officials who play vital roles in national security will have the opportunity to participate in the next course fostering greater inter-agency collaboration and a holistic approach to national security."

The ceremony saw Defence Secretary AVM Thuyacontha (Retd) conferring degrees upon 33 officers of the Tri-Services and Police of Sri Lanka and 08 foreign officers, marking the grand culmination of their year-long efforts at the NDC.

The NDC proudly stands as the apex institution in the country's national security and strategic studies and as the highest seat of military learning.

An array of notable invitees, including the Chief of Defence Staff, Tri-Forces Commanders, Acting Inspector General of Police, KDU Vice Chancellor, Defence Ministry officials, members of the diplomatic corps, foreign military dignitaries, members of the faculty, special invitees, and senior military officials.