It is with immense honour and enthusiasm that I extend a warm welcome to the distinguished delegates and esteemed participants of the 26^th ASEAN Regional Forum - Heads of Defence Universities, Colleges, and Institutions Meeting (ARF-HDUCIM). Serving as both Chair of this notable gathering and the Vice Chancellor of General Sir John Kotelawala Defence University, Sri Lanka’s premier defence university, I am thrilled by the opportunity to convene senior leadership from esteemed defence education establishments across the region, fostering collaborative dialogues that resonate with the spirit of ARF-HDUCIM.
This forum stands as a vital platform for our institutions to engage in meaningful exchanges on contemporary and forward-thinking themes, particularly under our overarching focus on “Defence Education in an Era of Transition.” In an evolving global landscape marked by complex security challenges, rapid technological advancements, and shifting geopolitical dynamics, our work in defence education is more important than ever. ARF-HDUCIM provides a timely occasion to reflect on these changes and align our institutions’ visions and strategies for a resilient, informed, and cooperative regional future.
The agenda for this year’s meeting is thoughtfully structured to address a range of mutually beneficial subthemes, ensuring that each session contributes to the knowledge and capabilities of our institutions in ways that directly impact our shared missions. By facilitating discussions around these prudent topics, I am confident we will harness the collective expertise of our delegates, promoting a rich exchange of ideas and strategies that will benefit our defence education community and broader regional stability.
As we embark on this journey together, I look forward to showcasing the warmth and hospitality for which Sri Lanka is renowned. I am eager to foster constructive interactions that I hope will lead to lasting professional relationships, knowledge-sharing, and new collaborative ventures. May the 26^th ARF-HDUCIM serve as a meaningful and productive milestone for each participating institution, fortifying our collective dedication to peace, security, and educational excellence.