On successful completion of their training at Naval Institute of Technology (NIT) in Welisara, eleven (11) naval artificer apprentices of the 19th artificer intake of NIT passed out at the main parade ground of NIT in Welisara today (08th September 2023). The ceremony was graced by Director General Electrical and Electronic Engineering, Rear Admiral Viraj Leelarathna, as the Chief Guest.
Today’s ceremony saw, eleven (11) naval artificer apprentices who completed their three-year training at NIT and were qualified for the National Diploma in Technology (NDT) offered by the 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, Engine Room Apprentice I, LDR Madhusanka won the awards for the Highest Aggregate in Marine Engineering and Best Artificer Apprentice of the 19th intake. The award for the Highest Aggregate in Electrical Engineering was won by Electrical Apprentice I, HMPVM Herath. Meanwhile, Shipwright Apprentice I, WMSB Weerakoon won the award for the Highest Aggregate in Hull Repair & Ship Construction Engineering. The awards for the, Best Sportsman and Best Marksman were won by Electrical Apprentice I, WACS Thilakarathna.
The Passing out Parade was made more colourful by the entertaining performances presented by Navy Band and Cultural Troupe. Director General Training, Rear Admiral Rohitha Abeysinghe, Director General Personnel, Rear Admiral Damian Fernando, officers from the Navy Headquarters, Western Naval Command and Welisara Naval Complex and a group of sailors were also present on this occasion.