01. The 04th Long Executive Specialization Course at the Naval and Maritime Academy (NMA) was inaugurated with great enthusiasm on 11th September 2023, in the NMA mini auditorium. This specialized course is uniquely tailored for Executive branch officers of the Sri Lanka Navy, aiming to equip them with the necessary skills and expertise in the fields of navigation, communication, gunnery, and anti-submarine warfare in order to recognize them as specialized officers in their relevant fields.
2. The course comprises a total of 28 participants, with each course enrolling seven course participants. This course spans over a duration of 54 weeks, divided into two phases: 44 weeks of academic training and 10 weeks of field training. Throughout the course, participants will have the privilege of learning from distinguished instructors from the Sri Lanka Navy, Indian Navy, and experts from renowned external institutions. Additionally, student officers will engage in collaborative efforts with both naval and non-naval institutions to cover specific course modules. To provide a holistic educational experience, the course curriculum includes a one-week local tour and a two-week foreign attachment, enabling participants to explore Sri Lanka and gain exposure to specialized equipment and systems not readily available within the Sri Lanka Navy.
3. The Inaugural Ceremony was graced by the esteemed presence of Commodore Buddika Liyanagamage, the Commandant of Naval and Maritime Academy, who served as the Chief Guest of the event. During his address, Commandant underscored the immense significance of long specialized courses like this one in elevating the professional knowledge of officers and moulding them into highly competent naval specialists in their chosen domains. He emphasized that the curriculum has been meticulously designed to align with the operational needs of the Sri Lanka Navy, taking into account the equipment and systems onboard naval platforms. The Commandant encouraged course participants to approach this challenge with unwavering determination and dedication, reiterating that hard work is the sole path to success. Furthermore, he stressed the critical importance of upholding the highest standards of decorum, discipline, and dignity throughout their stay at the academy. He urged them to embody values such as integrity, honour, punctuality, and officer-like qualities. In conclusion, Commandant acknowledged that the professionalism and innovative thinking of these officers would play a pivotal role in shaping the future of the Sri Lanka Navy for generations to come.
4. The inaugural ceremony set a promising tone for the 04th Long Executive Specialization Course, with the participants poised to embark on a challenging and rewarding journey of professional development and specialization in the service of their country.