A glorious legacy unfolds: The rise of KDA/KDU and the dawn of the Australian Alumni Chapter

Opinion

By Nilakshan Perera

In the annals of Sri Lanka’s military and academic history, the year 1979 stands as a turning point, a moment when vision met purpose. The Armed Forces of Sri Lanka, recognising the need for higher academic standards within their officer corps, proposed a bold new initiative: the creation of an institution that would cultivate not only warriors but also scholars. A distinguished delegation led by Major VSM Jayawardene, accompanied by luminaries such as Prof. Patuwathavithana (Dean, University of Moratuwa), Prof. P.W. Epasinghe, and Prof. Fonseka from the University of Colombo, set out on a fact-finding mission to India’s iconic National Defence Academy in Pune, the world’s first tri-service university.

Upon their return, with remarkable speed and clarity of purpose, the dream began to take form. Sir John Kotelawala, former Prime Minister and a towering statesman, stepped forward with an act of immense patriotism, donating his 48-acre Kandawala Estate, complete with all its moveable and immoveable property, to the state for this noble cause. This selfless gesture ignited a movement, and within days, plans were in motion to establish the Kotelawala Defence Academy (KDA).

On 1st October 1980, as Sir John lay ailing in a special room at Colombo General Hospital, President J.R. Jayewardene, accompanied by Commander of the Army Gen, Dennis Perera, bestowed upon him the honorary rank of General, a fitting tribute to a man whose final act of service would transform the future of military education in Sri Lanka. Just one day later, Sir John passed away. But his legacy lived on, immortalized in the name of the academy that would soon rise on his beloved estate.

Sir John Kotelawala offering the Kandawala Estate to establish KDA to HE the President JR Jayewardena Standing left to right: Rear Admiral Alfred Perera, Commander of the Navy, Air Vice Marshal Harry Goonetilleke, Commander of the Air Force, Maj Gen JED Perera, Commander of the Army and Mr TB Werapitiya, Minister of Internal Security, at the President’s House Colombo on 11th July 1979

The Kotelawala Defence Academy was officially inaugurated on 11th October 1980, in the dignified presence of the President, the Tri-Service Commanders, and other distinguished guests. Though the academy began with modest resources, just a handful of vehicles, basic infrastructure, and boundless enthusiasm, it was rich in spirit and purpose. Under the able leadership of Brig. CAMN Silva (Mike Silva, the first Commandant), The Adjutant, Major VSM Jayawardene, Squadron Commander Major LCR Goonewardene, and a dedicated team, KDA began its journey with an unshakable commitment to excellence.


Gen Dennis Perera	Brig CAMN Silva

In March 1981, the first Intake of Service Cadets was inducted, young men filled with ambition, who would soon attend lectures at the Universities of Colombo and Moratuwa, pursuing degrees in Engineering, Physical Science, and Architecture. It was a time of both rigorous discipline and familial warmth, thanks to selfless mentors like Fly Off Sanka Wijesinghe Retired as Flt Lt, Lt Dushantha Chelliah retired as Cdr, Fly Off Anura Silva retired as AVM, Capt. John Senaweera retired as Brig, Capt. VNR Rajasekera retired as Maj, Lt S Mahindan retired as Maj, Fly Off Mohan de Zoysa retired as AVM and Capt. Raj M Fernando.

As the academy matured, it was elevated to university status in 1988 through a landmark amendment, becoming the General Sir John Kotelawala Defence University (KDU).

With this transformation came a new era of academic prestige. The university began attracting Day Scholars and foreign students from SAARC nations and beyond, offering degree programs on a fee levying basis. By 2010, KDU had opened its doors to the world, evolving into a beacon of disciplined, globally recognized education.

The institution’s expansion continued with the opening of its Southern Campus in Sooriyawewa in 2015, further solidifying its role in national development. To date, KDU has proudly produced over 4,500 graduates for Sri Lanka’s Tri-Services, many of whom have gone on to serve with distinction both at home and abroad. Its international outreach has also contributed significantly to Sri Lanka’s economy through valuable foreign exchange earned via its academic programs.

The legacy of General Sir John Kotelawala Defence University (KDU) extends far beyond its gates. It lives on in the hearts and achievements of its alumni, men and women shaped by shared challenges, discipline, and the enduring values instilled by their alma mater.

In that proud tradition, the year 2023 marked a historic milestone with the formation of the General Sir John Kotelawala Defence University Alumni Association (Australia Chapter) Inc. This initiative was born from a collective vision to strengthen global alumni connections and to enhance KDU’s international stature and reputation.

We pay heartfelt tribute to the legendary stalwarts Captain(E) Peminda Jayasinhe, Wing Commander Ajith Samaraweera, Major Ajith Ratnayake, and Nalin Siriwardana, whose selfless commitment and tireless efforts laid the foundation for this association. Their work, guided by the wisdom and encouragement of then Vice Chancellor Major General Milinda Peiris, was instrumental in bringing this vision to life.

As we move forward, we do so with deep gratitude for the past and a renewed dedication to uphold the legacy of KDU across borders.

The inaugural meeting, held on 25th February 2023 at the Glen Waverley RSL in Victoria, brought together alumni from across Australia. With several members joining virtually from other states, and Maj Gen Peiris attending via Zoom, the event was a proud declaration that KDU’s spirit knows no boundaries.

Since then, the chapter has been a hub of vibrant activity. A dinner was hosted in honour of Maj Gen Peiris and Madam Nilan Peiris in April 2023, followed by a felicitation lunch for Air Marshal Udeni Rajapakse and Madam Enoka Rajapakse, the first KDU produced SLAF Commander, in June 2024. A joyful BBQ and Cricket Match at Jells Park in January 2025 drew over 45 alumni and their families, and the first AGM in February 2025 was a celebration of camaraderie, complete with a raffle, music, and a feast of hoppers.

The upcoming Musical Night on 12th July 2025, with over 250 guests expected, promises to be a glittering celebration of KDU's legacy, showcasing the unity, talent, and cultural pride of its alumni.

Today, the GSJKDUAA (Australia Chapter) Inc. has over 130 registered members from all across the country, with more joining each month as Day Scholars and professionals migrate to Australia. This growing fraternity serves not just as a social and professional network, but as a living testament to the values instilled by KDU, discipline, excellence, leadership, and service.

Indeed, the journey from KDA’s humble birth to KDU’s global presence, culminating in the vibrant community of its Australian alumni, is more than just a tale of institutional evolution, it is the unfolding of a majestic legacy. One that continues to inspire, empower, and connect generations across continents.

We kindly call upon all officers and day scholars who have graduated from KDU and now residing in Australia who are not yet members of the Australian Alumni Chapter to consider joining this vibrant community. One of the key objectives behind organizing this Musical Night is to strengthen and expand our membership by showcasing the lasting value of staying connected and engaged. It is through such unity that we continue to uphold the strong comradeship forged at KDA/KDU and move forward together, true to the noble motto of our alma mater: “Always for the Country” “සිය රටටමයි කවදත්".

Bravo Zulu KDU Australia Alumni!

In this special article, we solemnly remember the brave officers who made the supreme sacrifice while serving to protect Sri Lanka’s territorial integrity and sovereignty.