Officers’ Capacity Building at General Sir John Kotelawala Defence University: A Platform for Growth and Dialogue

General Sir John Kotelawala Defence University hosted its Officers’ Training Day Organized by Faculty of Defence and Strategic Studies, an event dedicated to fostering learning, dialogue, and professional development among officers. The programme aimed to provide participants with opportunities to enhance their knowledge, leadership skills, and camaraderie through a series of structured activities.

The day began with a physical training session comprised of a number of fitness exercises. Following the physical training, three thought-provoking lectures were conducted at the FGS Auditorium. The first session was conducted by Maj. Imran Hussain, who is currently attached to the Faculty of Defence and Strategic Studies, on “Leadership and Trust.” His discussion on “Building and Maintaining Trust in Blue Ocean Leadership” was highly interactive, allowing officers to explore the nuances of trust and leadership in strategic environments.

Dr. Niruka Sanjeewani from the Department of Strategic Studies at KDU delivered an insightful lecture on “International Politics and Insecurities: Multidimensional Challenges and Approaches” as the second session of the training programme. This academic discussion provided officers with a timely understanding of global geopolitical issues and their implications for regional conflicts.

The vice chancellor of KDU, Rear Admiral HGU Dammika Kumara, conducted the third session of the programme and he delivered a presentation on “Leadership Skills and Core Competencies for Development” that military officers need to excel in their respective roles. It was indeed an eye-opener for the audience, blended with theoretical and personal experiences that he had gained as a remarkable military officer in the Sri Lanka Navy.

After a stimulating intellectual exchange, officers gathered at the grounds for recreational games, where enthusiasm and teamwork were on full display. These activities fostered bonding and relaxation, enhancing the sense of community within the university.

The final segment of the program was the Diners Club session, led by renowned geopolitical analyst Mr. Nilanthan Niruthan. His discourse on “Global Security Challenges and Their Implications for Sri Lanka” provided a strategic overview of global security concerns, equipping officers with valuable insights on international affairs.

The training day at General Sir John Kotelawala Defence University successfully combined physical endurance, intellectual stimulation, and recreational engagement, contributing to the holistic capacity building of officers. Through discussions on leadership and development, the event reinforced the university’s commitment to excellence in education and professional growth.