Defence Services Command and Staff College

SECRETARY TO THE MINISTRY OF DEFENCE DELIVERS CUSTOMARY ADDRESS TO DSCSC COURSE NO 19_2025

The Defence Services Command and Staff College (DSCSC), the pinnacle of professional military education in Sri Lanka, had the honour of hosting Air Vice Marshal Sampath Thuyacontha (Retd), WWV, RWP and two Bars, RSP and Bar, USP, MMSc (Strat Stu-China), MSc (Def Stu) in Mgt, MSc (Def & Strat Stu), fndu (China), psc, Secretary to the Ministry of Defence and Chairman of the Board of Management of the DSCSC, for the customary address to the Course Participants of DSCSC Course No 19 on 10 December 2025.

Upon his arrival, the Secretary to the Ministry of Defence was warmly received by the Commandant of DSCSC, Major General H H K S S Hewage RWP RSP USP rcds psc, according full military honours. During the cordial interactions held at the Commandant’s Office, the Defence Secretary symbolically presented five iPads to the Deputy Commandant, three Chief Instructors and Brigadier Coordinating of the College. This gesture was a part of a broader project initiated by Secretary Defence to upgrade proficiency of instructors, under which a total of 22 iPads will be distributed among the Directing Staff of the three Wings.

The Secretary to the Ministry of Defence delivered an insightful and inspiring address that reflected his distinguished military career and extensive expertise in strategic defence management. He emphasised the evolving security environment, the importance of maintaining professional excellence within the officer corps, and the critical role of jointness in modern military operations. Underscoring the increasing importance of jointness, modern technology, and strategic foresight, he urged officers to strengthen inter-service cooperation to effectively counter emerging challenges in both national and regional contexts. During his remarks, the Secretary Defence also highlighted key considerations in the upcoming ‘Defence Policy Review – 2030’, noting the importance of aligning military preparedness, capability development, and national security priorities with future strategic demands.

Following the address, an interactive Q&A session allowed Course Participants to engage directly with the Secretary to the Ministry of Defence, who responded to their queries with valuable insights on strategic responsibilities of mid-career leaders, and the direction of national security reforms.

To commemorate the occasion, the Commandant of DSCSC presented a memento to the Secretary to the Ministry of Defence.

SECRETARY TO THE MINISTRY OF DEFENCE DELIVERS CUSTOMARY_2025