The need for peaceful co-existence and unity among the races is felt more strongly than at any time in history, in our country where different races live together and children in all parts of the island are working together without discrimination, Defence Secretary General Kamal Gunaratne said.
The National Cadet Corps (NCC), including in the North and Eastern Provinces, is doing silent service to build harmony among nationalities supporting the government’s program after lasting peace was restored in the country.
The Defence Secretary made these remarks today (Oct 26) while gracing as the Chief Guest of the passing out parade of NCC Hermann Loos & De Soyza Championship – 2022 held at the NCC Training Centre at Rantembe.
The Defence Secretary also said there is an opinion in society that children who are engaged in cadet activities during school period acquire leadership qualities, discipline, persistent performance of their duties, the ability to face challenges and live with self-confidence when socializing as adults and it reflects well through them.
He congratulated the cadets who won the national championship as well as all the other cadet platoons who competed very well in the competition. He also paid his gratitude to their parents for directing their children to the training activities of the NCC and for being a great strength to them.
General Gunaratne in his address said that our children should be prepared to face the emerging world as future employment sector is undergoing a massive transformation and accordingly, digital technology methods such as artificial intelligence, intelligent automation, robotics etc. will be used more for the jobs in the future.
While stressing the need to develop hard and soft skills of the cadets for digital literacy, English language trends and adaptability to any future environment, the Defence Secretary stated that the soft skills that need to be developed to live a successful life are practically developed in the cadets. He also requested them to develop other necessary skills by using the expertise and knowledge gained through the training.
He said that as Defence Secretary, he closely observes the activities of the NCC and the required guidance is given.
The Defence Secretary, who arrived at the NCC’s training centre premises, was warmly received by the NCC Director, Maj. Gen. Priyantha Jayasundara. He was also accorded a Guard of Honour.
During the occasion, the Chief Guest also pinned medals to the winners of the Hermann Loos & De Soyza platoons, followed by the presentation of awards to the winners. Band show and drill display added color to the parade.
Religious dignitaries including Maha Sangha, Chairperson of the Defence Ministry’s Seva Vanitha Unit Mrs. Chithrani Gunaratne, Chief of National Intelligence, Army and Navy Commanders, Air Force Chief of Staff, state officials, Commandant and the training staff of the NCC Training Centre, Armed Forces and Police Officers, Provincial and Zonal Directors of Education, Principals, invitees and parents attended the event.