CHIEF OF DEFENCE STAFF ADDRESSES GRADUANDS OF DEFENCE SERVICES COMMAND AND STAFF COLLEGE

Upholding a cherished pre-graduation tradition, the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) General Shavendra Silva WWV RWP RSP VSV USP ndc psc MPhil addressed the 17th batch of student officers at the Defence Services Command and Staff College (DSCSC) on 11 December 2023 prior to their graduation. The batch is scheduled to graduate on 14 December 2023.

Upon arriving, the CDS was greeted with warmth by the Commandant DSCSC, Major General Lasantha Rodrigo RSP psc IG and ushered to his office where they had a cordial discussion. Later, the CDS was accompanied to the college auditorium for the scheduled address.

In his address, General Shavendra Silva touched upon various topics relevant to the graduands’ future roles and responsibilities as military leaders. Those included the evolving security landscape, emerging challenges, and the importance of professional development and leadership.

Highlighting the theme of the "Role of the Military in the Contemporary Security Landscape," General Silva emphasized the importance of understanding the evolving nature of security threats and the need for adaptable and versatile Armed Forces. He further stated that "as leaders stepping out into the world, it is crucial to grasp the realities of the current security landscape”. He further stressed the need for armed forces to "evolve, fostering versatile capabilities aligned with economic realities while addressing diverse challenges." General Silva underscored the importance of acknowledging and addressing the global dimensions contributing to these threats, advocating for a "holistic approach" beyond internal readiness. "Our readiness and vigilance must persist even when adversaries appear unseen," he said, emphasizing the significance of preparedness as the cornerstone of national security.

Congratulating the graduating officers, the CDS commended their commitment and wished them success in their future endeavours. He also acknowledged the efforts of the DSCSC Commandant and Directing Staff, expressing appreciation for their dedication to moulding the officers to meet that end abreast with its mission “To War with Wisdom and Knowledge”.

The audience for the timely speech comprised 148 middle-grade officers, 123 from Sri Lankan Tri-Forces and 25 from friendly foreign countries. These officers had completed a year of intensive training across various disciplines, with a main and significant focus on Defence Studies.

The day concluded with an interactive session at the Officers' Mess, where the CDS engaged with the graduating officers and the Directing Staff. Prior to the departure, the senior most serving officer, General Shavendra Silva made his complimentary note in the Visitors’ Book, commemorating his customary visit.