26th September 2025
The National Cadet Corps (NCC), in collaboration with the Ministry of Education, staged the All Island Eastern Cadet Band Challenge Trophy - 2025 at the NCC Training Centre, Rantembe, on 25 September 2025. The event was graced by Lieutenant General Lasantha Rodrigo RSP ctf-ndu psc IG, Commander of the Army, as the Chief Guest.
Major General A.P.C.R Prematilaka RSP USP ndc, Director of the National Cadet Corps, together with Colonel A.P. Liyanage, Commandant of the Rantembe Training Centre, warmly welcomed the Chief Guest. Afterwards, he was accorded a Guard Turnout. The Army Chief thereafter awarded medals to the winners of the Eastern Band before inspecting the parade. A total of 44 cadet platoons, selected from 136 island wide school platoons, competed in the final event.
During the awarding ceremony, Vidyartha College, Kandy emerged as Overall Champions in the boys’ category, while Dharmaraja College, Kandy secured the Runner-up position. Vidyartha College also clinched first place in the band display, with Dharmaraja College taking second place.
In the girls’ category, Sri Dheerananda College, Pilimathalawa won the Overall Championship, while Maliyadeva Girls’ College, Kurunegala became Runner-up. Maliyadeva Girls’ College secured the first place in the band display, followed by Sri Dheerananda College in second place.
Cadet Sergeant D.M.H.S.B. Disanayake of Vidyartha College, Kandy, and Cadet Sergeant V.E.J. De Mel of Maliyadeva Girls’ College, Kurunegala, were adjudged Best Drum Majors in the boys’ and girls’ categories respectively.
Addressing the gathering, the Chief Guest expressed the NCC’s role in shaping disciplined youth through extracurricular activities while promoting sportsmanship among school cadets. He highlighted the importance of upholding the Corps’ motto, “Never Be Unprepared”, and encouraged cadets to maintain conduct befitting the high standards of the Corps. He also commended the impressive drills and professionalism displayed during the parade.
A colourful special band display followed, showcasing the skills and talents of the participating cadets.
Towards the close of the event, the Director of NCC presented a memento to the Army Chief and the gesture was reciprocated.
The ceremony was attended by members of the clergy, senior Tri-Service Officers, retired Senior Officers, Ministry of Education officials, police representatives, principals, teachers, parents, cadets, well-wishers and a large gathering of civilians.
