The General Sir John Kotelawala Defence University (KDU) awarded degrees at the convocation of the Kotalawala Defence University held at BMICH yesterday (October 27). H.E. President Mahinda Rajapakse and the Chancellor of the Kotalawala Defence University Lt.Gen Dennis Perera were present at the presentation.

The Graduates, their parents, the members of the academic staff of the KDU, the Defence Secretary Mr. Gotabaya Rajapakse, President Secretary Lalith Weeratunga and the three Commanders of Armed Forces participated in this special occasion.

Addressing the gathering H.E. President Mahinda Rajapakse stated "Terrorism was defeated but should work hard for the development of the country and national security. It was the duty of all to work towards taking the country to a top position in the world After the liberation of the country we did not forget our war heroes we love them respect them and trust them forever"

The General Sir John Kotelawala Defence University (KDU) was initially established as the "General Sir John Kotelawala Defence Academy" by the Parliamentary Act 1981 and subsequently it was elevated to University status by the amendment Act No 27 of 1988, thereby empowering it to award Bachelors' and Postgraduate degrees in Defence Studies.

Major Thushara Kathriarachchi Commander of first Women's Corps was awarded the first in order of merit, MSc she is the first lady officer to complete MSc at Kotelawala Defence University.

Following Awards were conferred;

Trophy for the Best Student Officer from the Sri Lanka Army 2/Lt WANU Wijesinghe
Trophy for the Best Student Officer from the Sri Lanka Navy A/S/Lt WAMI Fernando
Trophy for the Best Student Officer from the Sri Lanka Air Force Fg Off KMS Bandara
Trophy for the First in Order of Merit 2/Lt WANU Wijesinghe

           

Courtsy: MCNS