THE COMMANDANT OF THE VOLUNTEER FORCE VISITS THE SRI LANKA ARMY VOLUNTEER FORCE TRAINING SCHOOL

On 19 November 2024, Major General B K G M L Rodrigo RSP psc IG - the Commandant of the Sri Lanka Army Volunteer Force (SLAVF) visited the Sri Lanka Army Volunteer Force Training School (VFTS), to participate in a special programme. The aim of the visit was to facilitate improvements and thoroughly review the inner workings of the VFTS.

The Commandant was greeted warmly upon arrival at the venue in accordance with military formalities. He was saluted by military personnel in a Drive Pass and then planted a sapling on the VFTS grounds to commemorate his visit.

All participants then gathered for the address of the Commandant -VFTS, Colonel J AG Jayarathne KSP, who held a very productive briefing. The training aspects of the school were thoroughly scrutinized, including the potential for future training programmes. The Commandant VFTS also addressed areas for improvement, where by instructions were given to the Deputy Commandant (Overlooking) and Colonel Training SLAVF.

Afterwards, two students following the Administrative Assistants’ Clerical Course conducted a documentary programme. They shared their experiences, reinforcing the significance of the skills they acquired while following the course.

Following this enlightening session, the Commandant SLAVF distributed stationery packs to all students participating in the Basic Information Technology Course. He was then called on to present National Vocational Qualification (NVQ4) certificates from the National Apprentice and Industrial Training Authority (NAITA) to students of the Administrative Assistants’ Course.

The certificate presentation ceremony culminated in an address by the Commandant SLAVF, to all Officers, student Officers, permanent staff and other students. He emphasized the importance of the work of the VFTS in implementing their various training programmes and their value to the Sri Lanka Army as a whole. He also addressed Commanding Officers following the Officers Par Excellence Course, championing the pursuit of high standards among Officers of the Sri Lanka Army. He highlighted the significance of leadership qualities, skills and wisdom as well as values like integrity, honesty, loyalty- all of which are paramount to creating a well-rounded Officer.

The session concluded with an All Ranks tea party, after which the Commandant- SLAVF conducted a visit of the camp, inspecting the accommodation and lab facilities of the institution.

Brigadier B M R J Bandara - the Deputy Commandant (Overlooking) and Inspector of Training SLAVF and Colonel T S B R Fernando - Colonel Training SLAVF graced the occasion, joined by Senior Officers, Officers and Other Ranks representing the Volunteer Force and staff of the VFTS.