Rantambe: The Annual Passing Out Parade of the Hermann Loos and De Soysa Challenge Trophies for the year 2025 was successfully held today at the National Cadet Corps (NCC) Training Centre in Rantambe. The event was graced by the Deputy Minister of Defence, Major General Aruna Jayasekara (Retired), as the Chief Guest. Upon his arrival, he was warmly welcomed by the Director of the NCC, Major General Rajitha Premathilake. The Chief Guest was accorded a Guard Turnout, after which the cadets presented an outstanding parade.

According to Ministry of Defence – Sri Lanka, the NCC is the premier school cadet training organization in Sri Lanka, playing a vital role in shaping the nation’s youth. It operates under the joint purview of the Ministry of Defence and the Ministry of Education. In his address, Maj. Gen. Jayasekara underscored the importance of cadet training in shaping the character of young students. He emphasized its role in instilling discipline and building leadership qualities, contributing significantly to national reconciliation. He thanked the two school platoons from Jaffna and Batticaloa for their active participation, noting their involvement symbolizes unity and cooperation among students from different regions. Plans are underway to increase the number of participants in the coming years.

He also appreciated the contribution of the NCC officers and teachers who dedicated their time and effort to train the school cadets. The Deputy Minister presented the winners with trophies and awards. The Hermann Loos Challenge Trophy (Male Category) was won by Maliyadeva College, Kurunegala, while the De Soysa Challenge Trophy (Female Category) went to Mahamaya Girls’ College, Kandy.

The ceremony was attended by a host of dignitaries, including officials from the Ministry of Defence and the Ministry of Education, senior tri-forces officers, retired senior officers, principals, teachers, cadets, and families of the cadets.