SMOOTH MILITARY EMPLOYABILITY THROUGH TRAINING

The assurance of military employment through continuous training is a key factor that enhances the administrative operations of the Volunteer Force. A two-day training programme for the Commanding Officers and Liaison Officers, conducted under the guidance of Major General K V N P Premaratne RSP USP nps psc, the Commandant of the Sri Lanka Army Volunteer Force (SLAVF), was successfully concluded on 14 August 2025 at the Headquarters SLAVF.

The inaugural session of the workshop commenced with the presence of Brigadier B J Lekamge RSP KSP – the Inspector of Training SLAVF on 13 August 2025. The day's proceedings began with a documentary presentation outlining the profound history of the Volunteer Force. The workshop thoroughly addressed key concerns related to administrative, training, and relevant legislative considerations essential for effective command and control of the volunteer battalions.

The second session of the workshop (14 August 2025) was unfolded with interactive sessions that dealt with subject specific contents.

A special homage is paid to Brigadier H A Keerthinatha RSP KSP psc - Brigadier Administration, Colonel B C K Ferdinandez USP - Colonel Legal, Lieutenant Colonel P A G A P Madiththapola - General Staff Officer 1, Lieutenant Colonel A M M B Attanayake - Staff Officer 1 (Recruiting), Lieutenant Colonel G S S Galagedara - Staff Officer 1 (Welfare & Public Relations) and Major M U I C Gunawardana psc - Staff Officer 1 (Finance) for generously sharing their knowledge and serving as resource persons throughout the workshop.

In a thought-provoking concluding key note, the Commandant SLAVF affirmed the importance of continuous professional development and structured training in enhancing leadership, operational effectiveness, and regimental functioning. He further spelled out the significance of the workshop that serves as a platform to refresh knowledge, align responsibilities, and uphold the high standards of military professionalism.

In recognition of commitment, participation and active engagement, participants were awarded with certificates by the Commandant SLAVF marking the culmination of an insightful and enriching workshop. The certificate awarding ceremony was attended by Brigadier P M S Karunaratne psc - the Principal Staff Officer and Senior Officers of the Headquarters SLAVF.

The Commandant SLAVF highly acknowledged the presence of the intended group of senior officers. He highly commended the efforts of Colonel M G G W R Gamage – Colonel Training and the staff of the General Staff Branch of the Headquarters SLAVF for their contribution to the success of this workshop, while extending his best wishes to continue the spirit of learning and excellence.