Navy Seva Vanitha Unit organizes special programme to celebrate International Women's Day

The Navy Seva Vanitha Unit (NSVU) today (11th March 2023) held a special programme to mark the International Women's Day, which fell on 08th March. The event was held under the patronage of Commander of the Navy, Vice Admiral Priyantha Perera and the President of NSVU, Mrs Mala Lamahewa in the Welisara Naval Complex.

The Ministry of Women, Child Affairs, and Social Empowerment organized the main celebration of International Women's Day on 08th March, under the theme “She is the pride of the nation”. In parallel with the main event, the Navy Seva Vanitha Unit organised this special programme to recognise the contribution of women in the Navy. Accordingly, the programme featured informative lectures, cookery and beauty culture segments and entertaining events, which enabled lady officers, women sailors and spouses of naval personnel to get in touch with new trends in respective fields.

Addressing the gathering Commander of the Navy appreciated the contribution of both lady officers and women sailors in various fields of the Navy. He also stated that the Navy had opened up new avenues to the lady officers and women sailors, allowing them to work shoulder to shoulder with men in the Navy. Therefore, he was hopeful that women would be able to perform sea duties in due course. The Commander of the Navy went on to emphasize the importance of gender sensitivity and the need for more women in leadership roles, which will set a good precedent to society. He also said that women are the great strength behind officers and sailors as a mother, wife, daughter and friend. Finally, Vice Admiral Priyantha Perera expressed his gratitude to all lady officers, women sailors and spouses of naval personnel for fulfilling their responsible role even amidst prevailing economic hardships.

Lectures on abuse of women and children, violence against women and the impact of social media by Chief Inspector of Police Manoj Samarasekera, physical, mental and social health by Surgeon Captain Apsara Henegama, beauty culture by Mrs Thamali Wasala as well as discussions on medical, legal, financial matters were held during this women's day programme.

The Commander Western Naval Area, Rear Admiral Suresh De Silva, senior officers from the Navy Headquarters and Western Naval Command, the Vice President and executive committee members of NSVU, lady officers, women sailors and members of NSVU were present at the women's day programme.