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Foreign cadets march into Kotelawala Academy
By Asif Fuard
Sri Lanka's only military academy, the Kotelawala Defence Academy, has opened its doors to foreign students for the first time. This academy which is a University established by an Act of Parliament, belongs to the Association of Commonwealth Universities. Currently there are two Maldivian and two Bangladeshi cadets undergoing training. Nominations have also been called from India, Pakistan and Nepal through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Each country has been offered two vacancies, which have to be filled by candidates nominated by the respective governments. Applicants could be from the Army, Navy or Air force and they are entitled to the facilities and allowances applicable to local KDA cadets.

The academy offers Bachelors and Masters degree programmes for Science, Arts and Commerce. The training comprises 75% academic and 25% military. Commandant of the Academy, Rear Admiral Nandana Thuduwewatte told The Sunday Times, that each year about 100-120 students are admitted. He said about 30% of the cadets are from leading schools such as Royal, Ananda and Nalanda from Colombo.

In addition to free meals, accomodation, medical and recreational facilities, the Academy also pays each cadet an allowance of Rs. 61,320 a year. The academy also has a swimming pool, Squash Courts, two Gymnasiums and Cricket and Rugby grounds. The Academy also consists of clubs and societies that give the cadets an opportunity to pursue their interests.

This academy was established in 1980 and is housed in what was once the private bungalow of former Prime Minister Sir John Kotelawala. He donated his 48-acre estate for the establishment of such an Academy, which was later named in his honour. The graduation ceremony of the Academy was held on Friday at the BMICH.

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