Nalanda College, Colombo and the Old Nalandians Ravaviru Association paid their highest tribute to the Secretary to the Ministry of Defence, its alumni, Mr. Hemasiri Fernando at the college premises this morning (21 January 2019) at a special assembly, in keeping with Nalanda College tradition of recognizing those who have achieved the highest degree of recognition and achievement in society.

The Commander of the Air Force, Air Marshal Kapila Jayampathy attended the ceremony as the President of the Old Nalandians Ranaviru Association and received the Secretary of Defence on his arrival.

The ceremony showcased an impressive pageantry of current Nalanda College students and staff members, with the college cadet platoon and the cadet band heralding the parade, with a distinguished gathering of past Nalandian Tri- Service members participating in full strength.

Speaking at the ceremony, the present principle of Nalanda College, Mr. Thilak Waththuhewa stated that Nalanda College has a history of producing noble sons who serve the country in the highest offices and that Mr. Fernando, who had excelled in sports, studies and extracurricular activities whilst at school and who has reached a prestigious position in the Ministry of Defence, is a source of pride to his alma mater.