Oceanlust Magazine

18/12/2023

*The Urgency of Strategic Blue Diplomacy and Hydrographic Development in the Indian Ocean, Sri Lanka's Imperative*

Recent geopolitical shifts and evolving political ideologies in the Indian Ocean region have raised concerns over the cancellation of hydrographic agreement between Maldives and India. The catalyst behind this potential cancellation stems from the emerging pro-China administration in the Maldives. However, the implications transcend bilateral relations, calling for a far-sighted and pragmatic approach in handling these geopolitical intricacies.

One proposed solution to this complex scenario emphasizes the significance of investing in the education and training of the Maldivian youth, particularly in hydrographic expertise. Sri Lanka's Navy boasts a commendable hydrographic unit, providing a potential avenue for nurturing the next generation's skills. Collaborating with the University of Kelaniya could serve as a foundational step, leveraging the expertise of Sri Lanka's naval unit, even without the involvement of an Italian university.

Efforts have been made to convey this strategy to pertinent authorities, including the President's Office and the Vice Chancellor of Kelaniya who is very keen to promote Blue Economy in SL. However, bureaucratic delays in responses have hindered progress, potentially influenced by personal agendas that deviate from the broader national interest.

Amidst these deliberations, the impending hydrographic bill required by the National Hydrographic Office assumes paramount importance. Timely passage of this bill aligns with the overarching objective of consolidating efforts and resources in developing a robust hydrographic framework, crucial for Sri Lanka's strategic interests promoting Blue Economy .

Moreover, collaborative ventures between the Sri Lankan and Indian Navies have yielded valuable data under the International Hydrographic Office's guide lines . Yet, the whereabouts of most of the data collected by other agencies remain unclear. Clarifying and presenting this data becomes pivotal in substantiating their contributions to hydrographic efforts.

The urgency of this endeavor cannot be overstated. The development of nautical charts, backed by robust data, holds immense strategic significance, especially in the contemporary context where maritime activities are intensifying. Contrary to skepticism regarding the utility of these charts, global statistics highlight the considerable traffic passing through Sri Lankan waters. Evidence suggests a substantial number of vessels navigating through specific traffic separation zones, affirming the vital role of updated nautical charts in ensuring safe maritime passage.

The challenges in expediting this critical initiative lie not only in bureaucratic hurdles but also in the dearth of government officials equipped with the necessary expertise and dedication to prioritize national interests over personal gains. Addressing these issues becomes imperative for Sri Lanka to harness its maritime potential and assert itself in the international arena.

The urgency to fortify Sri Lanka's hydrographic capabilities, foster strategic partnerships, and navigate through geopolitical complexities demands swift action, unwavering commitment, and a collective resolve to secure the nation's maritime interests on the global stage.

Ayesh Indranath Ranawaka
Editor in Cheif oceanlust magazine .

16/12/2023

"Blue Revolution",A Transformative Step for SLFP

The meeting held today 15.12.2024 at SLFP party office with their professional group ,marked a crucial moment in the Blue Economy campaign. After I was invited by Dr. Chamil Liyanage for "Blue Economy" lecture, I was happy to engage with such an unexpected turn from traditional political narratives, instead focusing on the integration of "Blue Economy" concepts within the political framework.

This speech saw a deep involvement of prominent people like former President Maithripala Sirisena. Amid an attentive audience, the conversation moved away from mere blue economic principles to insist on the critical integration of these concepts into the political infrastructure.

The lecture explained the underutilization of potential national income by suggesting alternative programs to increase the current contribution to national income through ocean resources. Salient points were raised about nautical charts, marine tourism, maritime trade and defence cooperation, historical examples of naval power under leaders like King Parakramabahu and Nisshankamalla, and the importance of technological advancements in fisheries, including motherships and offshore bunkering,marine environment protection .

The real success of the event emerged from the probing questions asked by the audience, showing keen interest and understanding of the discourse. Of particular note was the post-event engagement demonstrated by women organizers who advocated for the dissemination of these critical insights across the nation.

It was Patali Champika Ranawaka who was the first to infuse the significance of Blue Economy concept in their policy document of United Republic Front. Now its SLFP trying to entertain ocean economy . The remarkable feature was that the young member of Parliament who was recently appointed as the Secretary General of SLFP Dushmantha Mithrapala was really impressed .

The program ended with shared laughter and an atmosphere of optimism, marking a potential transformative trajectory for the SLFP through the intensification of the "Blue Revolution" in former President Maithripala Sirisena's humorous political reflection on Sylvia Earle's powerful phrase

"No water, No life, No blue, No green".

No Blue - No Green .He repeated with laughter .

This convergence of political consciousness and blue economy insight acts as a beacon of hope, laying the foundation for a more comprehensive, sustainable and progressive approach within the vision of Sri Lanka and the nation as a whole.

Ayesh Indranath Ranawaka

15/12/2023

නීල ආර්ථිකයේ දැවැන්ත පිම්මක් සනිටුහන් කරමින් අද විවෘත වන ජාතික ජලශාස්ත්‍රීය කාර්යාලය

"මෙය මිනිසාගේ එක් පුංචි පියවරක් නොව සමස්ත මනුෂ්‍ය වර්ගයාගේ යෝධ පිම්මක් වනු ඇත"

සද මත පා තැබූ නීල් ආම්ස්ට්‍රෝංගේ ඒ සංකේතාත්මක වචන ඉතිහාසය පුරා දෝංකාර දෙන්නේ කුඩා පියවරයන් මානව වර්ගයා කෙරෙහි ඇති කළ ගැඹුරු බලපෑම පිළිබඳ සාක්ෂියක් සැපයීමක් වශයෙනි. ඒ හා සමානවම, 2016 දී ආරම්භ වූ කුඩා මුලපිරීමක්, ශ්‍රී ලාංකික සාගර ගවේෂණ සහ නීල ආර්ථික සංවර්ධන ක්ෂේත්‍රයේ දැවැන්ත ප්‍රගතියක් දක්වා වර්ධනය වී ජාතික ජල ශාස්ත්‍රීය කාර්යාලයේ (NHO) පිහිටුවීම අද දින 2023 12.14 දින මල්ඵල ගැන්වී තිබේ.

ජාතික ජලශාස්ත්‍රීය කාර්යාලය නීල ආර්ථිකය ඉදිරියට ගෙන යාම සඳහා නැතුවම බැරි කුළුණක් ලෙස පවතී. එය පිහිටුවීම සාගර සම්පත් ප්‍රයෝජනයට ගැනීමේ සහ අපගේ පෘථිවි ග්‍රහලෝකයේ දේශගුණික විපර්යාසයන්වල තීරණාත්මක තත්වයන් අවබෝධ කර ගැනීමේ අතිශය වැදගත් අවස්ථාවන් සනිටුහන් කරයි. මෙම සංකීර්ණතා හෙළිදරව් කිරීමේ සිට ඉහළ යන මුහුදු මට්ටම සොයා ගැනීම දක්වා මෙන්ම , ජාතික සංවර්ධන අවශ්‍යතා සඳහා අත්‍යවශ්‍ය වන සාගර ගැඹුර, උෂ්ණත්ව විචලනයන්, ශබ්ද තරංග හැසිරීම් සහ ගෑස්, තෙල් නල මාර්ග, සාගර ඛනිජ දත්ත කේබල් ඇතුළත් රහස්‍ය දත්ත ගබඩාවක් ලෙස හා නාවික සිතියම් නිර්මාණය කර ඩොලර් ඉපයීමේ දැවැන්ත කාර්‍යයන් රැසකට මෙම අද දින පිහිටවනු ලබන ජාතික ජලශාස්ත්‍රීය කාර්යාලය (NHO) ශ්‍රී ලංකාවට වැදගත් වනු ඇත .

ශ්‍රී ලාංකික සාගර ආර්ථිකයේ දැවැන්ත සංවර්ධන වෙනසක් බලාපොරොත්තු විය හැකි මෙම පරිවර්තනීය විවෘත කිරීමේ සිහිනය මල්ඵල ගැන්වීම සඳහා නොසැලෙන කැපවීම සහ නොපසුබස්නා උත්සාහය මත කැප වූ පුද්ගලයන් රැසකට මෙම දැක්මේ ඵලය කෘතවේදී විය යුතුය.

එහි ආරම්භයේ සිටම මෙම කාර්යය වෙනුවෙන් පෙනී සිටි 2016 ධීවර අමාත්‍යාංශ ලේකම්වරිය ලෙස කටයුතු කල මංගලිකා අධිකාරි මහත්මිය ,හිටපු නාවික හමුදාපති අද්මිරාල් රවීන්ද්‍ර විජේගුණරත්න හිටපු නාවික ජල විද්‍යාඥ රියර් අද්මිරාල් සිසිර ජයකොඩි සහ හිටපු නාරා සභාපති ඉංජිනේරු එස් එදිරිසිංහ මහතා විසින් ඉටු කරන ලද කාර්ය භාරය කියා නිම කළ නොහැක. ඔවුන්ගේ නායකත්වය සහ දැක්ම මෙම දැවැන්ත ව්‍යාපාරය ඉදිරියට ගෙන යාමට විශාල රුකුලක් විය.

තවද සියලුම පාර්ශ්වකරුවන් සම්බන්ධ කරගනිමින් කරුණු විමසා ඒ පිලිබද විශාල සේවයක් කරන ලද වත්මන් ජනාධිපතිතුමා ඇතුළු කැබිනට් අනුකමිටුව ලබා දුන් නොසැලෙන සහයෝගය හා සේවය වෙනුවෙන් විශේෂ උපහාරයක් හිමිවිය යුතු අතර ,ගරු අමාත්‍ය වරුන් වන විජේදාස රාජපක්ෂ මහතාගේ සහ ප්‍රමිත බණ්ඩාර තෙන්නකෝන් මහතාගේ කැපවීම සහ විපක්ෂ මන්ත්‍රීවරයකු ලෙස සාධාරණීය ලෙස මෙහි වැදගත්කම අවබෝධ කරගෙන සහයෝගය දැක්වූ ගරු පා.ම. අජිත් මාන්නප්පෙරුම මැතිතුමා ද මෙහිලා විශේෂයෙන් සනිටුහන් කල යුතුය .

අද, ජාතික ජල විද්‍යා කාර්යාලයේ දොරටු විවර වන විට, එය නව පරිච්ඡේදයක් පමණක් නොව, අපගේ සාගරවල විභවය අවබෝධ කර ගැනීමේ සහ ඒවා සංවර්ධනය සඳහා උපයෝගී කර ගැනීමේ ප්‍රබෝධමත් යුගයක් පෙරනිමිති කරයි. 2016 දී එක් කණිෂ්ඨ නාවික හමුදා ජලශාස්ත්‍රීය නිලධාරියකු විසින් වපුරන ලද මෙම කුඩා බීජය දැවැන්ත ගසක් බවට වර්ධනය වී , නව්‍යකරණයේ, තිරසාරභාවයේ සහ ඉදිරි පරම්පරාවන් සඳහා ප්‍රගතියේ ඵල දැරීමට සූදානමින් සිටී. ජාතික ජල ශාස්ත්‍රීය කාර්යාලය සාගර ආර්ථික ක්ෂේත්‍රයේ වඩාත් දැනුවත්, සමෘද්ධිමත් සහ තිරසාර අනාගතයක් කරා අපව මෙහෙයවමින් බලාපොරොත්තුවේ පහනක් ලෙස උස්ව සිටියි.

එයට ,පගේ උණුසුම් ශුභ පැතුම් .!!!

අයේෂ් ඉන්ද්‍රනාත් රණවක
ප්‍රධාන කතෘ oceanlust සගරාව

10/12/2023

*Experience the Unique Atmosphere of "Wave and Lake", A Naval Oasis outside Colombo*

In the bustling city of Colombo, nestled just outside its borders lies a hidden gem - "Wave and Lake". This enchanting place, under the meticulous guidance of trained navy officers and sailors, offers an atmosphere unlike any other. As you step into this spectacular venue, you'll immediately sense the distinctiveness in the air.

One of the first things you'll notice is the adherence to Her Majesty Queen's regulations, ensuring a level of sophistication and precision rarely found elsewhere. The staff, all trained to perfection, includes skilled chefs who craft delectable dishes and service personnel dedicated to providing an exceptional experience.

Wave and Lake boasts two exquisite restaurants where culinary delights await. Moreover, for those seeking a venue for grand celebrations, a hall capable of accommodating up to a thousand guests stands ready. Whether it's a wedding ceremony, corporate event, or a personal celebration, this venue caters to diverse occasions with ease.

Parking facilities ensure convenience for visitors, while the menu offerings promise a delightful culinary journey. The naval atmosphere permeates every aspect, granting guests a unique experience with three distinct reservation options: The Three Hundred, The Six Hundred and Fifty, and The Thousand, each tailored for varying event needs.

The scenic view of the lake adds to the ambiance, enhancing meals and drinks served at the bar. And if that's not enough, the venue provides an array of musical choices, from naval vibe tunes to oriental and western melodies, alongside its very own dance groups. Witness the captivating performances of the vibrant young Anganas, adding to the allure of the spectacular naval setting.

Wave and Lake isn't just a venue; it's an experience that transcends the ordinary. From exquisite dining to grand celebrations, from picturesque views to mesmerizing performances, this naval oasis beyond Colombo promises an unforgettable time for all who venture there. Visit and immerse yourself in the wave of the navy's hospitality amidst the breathtaking lake view.For reservations ,please contact Lieutenant Commander Jeewan Bandara on 076 3000 811. 🌹

Ayesh Indranath Ranawaka
Editor in Cheif
Oceanlust Magazine .

10/12/2023

10/12/2023

03/12/2023

https://fb.watch/oI69htx2nS/?mibextid=Nif5oz

22/11/2023

*Exploring the Academic Opportunities on Maritime Studies and Collaborative Endeavors in University of Genoa ITALY*

The University of Genoa, fondly referred to as *UniGe* , stands as a beacon of academic excellence in Italy. Founded in 1481, it boasts a rich history and a thriving present as a prominent public research institution. Its roots deeply embedded in the Liguria region of northwestern Italy, the university has continually evolved to embrace diversity, hosting over 16,500 students from 150 different nationalities.

Recently, a remarkable discussion took place between Institute of Ocean Resources Analysis ( *INORA* ) and ( *CIBEA* )Ceylon Italy Blue Economy Association , affiliative entities that added to the vibrant academic dialogue at *UniGe* . Such collaborations highlight the university's commitment to fostering Ocean Resources intellectual exchanges on a global scale.

While *UniGe* proudly stands as one of Italy's largest universities, its reputation extends beyond national borders. Ranked #300 in Best Global Universities, *UniGe* upholds standards of excellence across various disciplines. Its faculty encompasses a diverse range of expertise, including the esteemed Center for Maritime Studies.The Center for Maritime Studies at *UniGe* hosts an array of degrees catering to the evolving needs of the maritime industry. Students have the opportunity to delve into fields such as Environmental Engineering, Marine Biology and Ecology, Maritime and Port Economics and Management, Naval Architecture and Marine Engineering, Safety Engineering for Transportation, Logistics, Manufacturing,Hydrography , and Oceanography among others.

Noteworthy moments during the recent discussion included the presentation of esteemed publication "oceanlust" magazine to Professor Vittorio Coco by its Editor in Cheif and Executive Director of *INORA* on 22.11.2023.

21/11/2023

*From National Hydrographic Bill to SLiMDOE(Sri Lanka's Multi Dollar Ocean Expressway) , Carbon Tax from Ships Passing Sea of Sri Lanka .*

"That's One Small Step for man,One Giant Leap for Mankind"
Neil Armstrong .

The recently introduced Hydrographic Bill was challenged and the Supreme Court determination announced in the parliament which marks a landmark in Blue Economy development activities in the Country. However, the roots of this major legislation go back to a humble plea by a young Navy hydrographer —a testament to the power of small beginnings to shape monumental change.The story behind the National Hydrographic Bill is one of ambition, persistence and the importance of taking that crucial first step. Often times, starting a novel can be daunting, but it's the initial push that sets transformative movements in motion.

This narrative not only underscores the importance of individual actions, but also highlights the ripple effect such initiatives can have on a larger scale. As if the Hydrographic Bill was rooted in a single step , another important subject to be addressed as its impact reverberates globally, reminiscent of the recent carbon tax offering in the European Union.At its core, a carbon tax is a charge on the amount of carbon dioxide they emit when burning fossil fuels. This economic instrument aims to internalize the external costs associated with carbon emissions, encouraging businesses and individuals to reduce their carbon footprint. As pollution becomes more expensive, the hope is a shift to cleaner, more sustainable alternatives.

In recent years, the United Nations has focused on emissions from the maritime industry, recognizing its significant contribution to global carbon dioxide output. According to the International Maritime Organization (IMO), shipping accounts for roughly 2-3% of global greenhouse gas emissions, which is projected to rise without intervention.To address this, the IMO, a specialized UN agency responsible for regulating shipping, has taken steps to limit emissions from ships. One of the leading initiatives is the implementation of a carbon tax, indirectly known as Carbon Intensity Index (CII), under the framework of IMO's International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships (MARPOL).

Unlike a traditional tax, the IMO's approach does not impose a direct tax on carbon emissions from ships. Instead, it uses a CII rating system. This metric assesses a vessel's carbon intensity, calculated by measuring its emissions against distance traveled and transport work performed, essentially creating an efficiency rating for each vessel.

Ships that exceed a certain threshold of carbon intensity will face penalties, encouraging operators to improve their vessels' efficiency and reduce emissions. This mechanism encourages the adoption of cleaner technologies, fuel-efficient engines and more sustainable practices in the maritime industry.

The carbon tax proposal(SLiMDOE) proposed by Mr.Ranjith Wickramasinghe presents a major opportunity for environmental sustainability. However, the successful implementation of such a measure requires a collective effort and a clear framework for its implementation.

While acknowledging Mr. Wickramasinghe's position regarding the carbon tax, it is essential to emphasize the need for collaborative efforts. Implementation of this tax should not be seen as an isolated effort but as a collective responsibility that calls for bilateral cooperation.

One potential approach is to hold bilateral discussions between stakeholders including government agencies (MEPA at the forefront) , environmental agencies and private enterprise. This dialogue will form the basis for establishing a comprehensive plan for the effective implementation of the carbon tax.

Moreover, it is very important to create a well-defined mechanism to manage the revenue from the carbon tax. The system should be designed to monitor the flow of funds and allocate resources to initiatives aimed at mitigating climate change, investing in renewable energy sources and fostering sustainable practices across sectors.Furthermore, public awareness and education play an essential role in gaining support for and ensuring compliance with the carbon tax. Communicating the objectives, benefits, and potential impacts of this tax system to the public creates collective understanding and encourages active participation in environmental conservation efforts.

In essence, successful implementation of the carbon tax requires a multifaceted approach. Cooperation between stakeholders through bilateral agreements or delegation to dedicated institutions with a strong financial management system and broad public participation is the basis for the effective implementation of this environmental initiative.

Ultimately, while Mr. Wickramasinghe's proposal will lead to dialogue, the collective commitment and concerted action of various institutions will lead to the successful integration of the carbon tax into our environmental policy framework.We INORA is ready to take challenge alongside Mr Wickramasinghe's SLiMDOE .

*Ayesh Indranath Ranawaka*
*Executive Director* *INORA*

16/11/2023

"Blue Economy" is an engine that drives high quality economic growth .

12/11/2023

Happy diwali🎇🎇🎇

11/11/2023

*Budget 2023, A Missed Opportunity for Marine Advancements*

The much-anticipated 2023 budget held promises of transformative changes for the country's marine sectors, focusing on nautical tourism, the 30-30 agreement, and the blue-green space. Unfortunately, the enthusiasm surrounding these initiatives was quickly dampened by the sluggish wheels of state bureaucracy and the overpowering political tide.

In the realm of nautical tourism, despite the establishment of a steering committee and the drafting of a roadmap from the Asean Development Bank (ADB), progress has been disappointingly stagnant. The inability of related institutions to comprehend and strategize effectively on the designated areas mentioned in the budget has left the nation standing at a juncture where potential opportunities are slipping away.

The 30-30 agreement, a commitment to address climate change issues, was merely echoed in the President's speeches at international conferences. The promised construction of a university, intended to champion environmental causes, seems to be the sole tangible outcome. This lack of concrete action, especially in connection to the ocean, raises concerns about the nation's commitment to global sustainability goals.

The blue economy, a concept integral to Sustainable Development Goal 14 (SDG14) 2015-2030, remains conspicuously absent from the country's agenda. With only six years left to fulfill the United Nations' objectives, the urgency of the situation cannot be overstated. Mere declarations about being an island nation fall short; what is required is a genuine understanding and proactive engagement with the challenges and opportunities presented by the country's unique geographical position.

Moreover, the issue extends beyond policy implementation to the very core of governance. Despite claims of progress in president's digitization efforts, the reality paints a different picture. Hand-filled forms persist, casting doubt on the effectiveness of the proclaimed advancements. For true innovation to emerge, significant strides must be taken to modernize bureaucratic processes and create an environment conducive to change.

The 2023 budget, with its focus on marine sectors, was a missed opportunity for the country to stride confidently toward sustainable development. The inertia in bureaucratic processes, coupled with a lack of genuine commitment to transformative change, leaves the nation grappling with unfulfilled promises and a ticking clock on global sustainability goals. Urgent and meaningful steps are imperative to break free from this stagnation and propel the country toward a future where innovation and progress define its narrative.

Ayesh Indranath Ranawaka
Editor in Cheif oceanlust magazine

10/11/2023

In the year 2015, Sri Lankans across this Island nation received an intriguing message "Good morning. Say no to Plastic. It was around this time that the 2015/2030 UN Sustainable Development Goals #14 "life below water was launched .

Sri Lankas at the time however didn't take the message very seriously, nor did they respond for a call to action.

7+ years later since the first message, Sri Lankans are realising a stark reality. The Oceans are under threat but humans failed to acknowledge it.

As plastics begin to wash ashore, nationwide clean-up campaigns are held to clear up this mess. However the changes are purely cosmetic.

Eight million tonnes of plastic are dropped to the ocean annually.

That very same individual who sent the short text message, today he has proposed a trash trap in the Hamilton Canal, a place which has a high traffic density with the assistance of the Navy and the cabinet approved think tank - The Centre for Ocean Resources and Analysis. CENORA .

This initiative is in keeping with Sustainable development goal no 14 Life Below Water and implemented in Sri Lanka fisheries with assistance from the Australian High Commission.

The cabinet of ministers realising the importance and potential approved the institution of Centre for Ocean Resources and Analysis in 2018.

This unfortunately was reduced to a mere piece of paper. However he didn't let politics or people to take away from the prime objective.

In order to generate awareness, a magazine on the Ocean poignantly titled "Oceanlust" was introduced with the assistance of young talented Sri Lankan youths with a passion for a brighter future. Seven issues have been released while an online site continues to publish articles on a regular basis.

The founder has accomplished this feat with the generous assistance of his classmates from Royal College / Navy veterans and from his personal savings. The Sri Lanka Navy serves as a guiding light in this journey.

Recognizing the importance of this venture the NDB Bank has stepped forward, responding to an urgent need in our country for a cleaner ocean.

Many people have asked who began commercial whale watching in Sri Lanka, it was this very same individual. At a time when Sri Lanka was at war, the venture was introduced, however many ridiculed him. Today it is one of the most sought after tourism attractions and an important source of revenue.

This is the story of the former Vice President of the National Fisheries Federation, the former Managing Director of Ceynor Foundation limited, Executive Director of the Centre for Ocean Resources Analysis, the Director/CEO of the Institute of Ocean Resources Analysis and the Creator/Chief Editor of Sri Lanka's firstever ocean based e-magazine "oceanlust" .🌹

Team " oceanlust "

31/10/2023

*The Pride and Challenges of the Military*

The pride of the military is a sentiment that resonates deeply with those who have donned the uniform and dedicated themselves to serving their country. It embodies the commitment, sacrifice, and unwavering dedication to a cause greater than oneself. However, the path to achieving higher ranks within the military hierarchy is far from easy. It requires meeting stringent criteria, and promotions not only reflect an individual's accomplishments but also the prestige and reputation of the entire armed forces on the international stage.

The Gulf War, launched by the allied forces against Iraq, serves as a testament to the capabilities and valor of the military. Under the leadership of "General H. Norman Schwarzkopf", the allied forces emerged victorious in "Operation Desert Storm". General Schwarzkopf, despite his remarkable achievements, remained humble and declined to accept The rank of "Field Martial". His response to a reporter's question about whether he will be promoted to the rank of Field Marshal was, "No, I don't even deserve to be in the shadow of those who have got that position." This display of humility exemplifies the values instilled within the military.

In this world , treating equals unequally or unequals as equals is considered a grave injustice. Across the world, the ranks of Army, Navy, and Air Force commanders are held in equal . This equality is crucial when these military leaders participate in international conferences and negotiations, as it facilitates cooperation and understanding among nations. In an interconnected world, even nations like Sri Lanka , with minimal external threats should rely on international agreements and military cooperation for their national security.

Despite the pride associated with military service, there are challenges that need addressing. One major issue is the size of the military. In some countries, like Sri Lanka, having a large army/navy /airforce may not be sustainable or necessary. Reducing the military's size should be accompanied by a comprehensive plan to provide opportunities for the personnel who are phased out. Innovative training programs and career development paths can help these individuals transition effectively into civilian life.

Furthermore, recent revelations of rapid promotions, such as a "Lieutenant Commander" becoming a "Commodore" overnight, raise concerns about fairness and transparency within the military hierarchy. Such practices can undermine the integrity of the armed forces and erode public trust. It is essential for the military leadership to address these issues and ensure that promotions are based on merit, not political affiliations.

In today's world, accountability and harmony are paramount. Resolving issues related to promotions and ensuring fairness within the military is not only a matter of justice but also contributes to the overall stability and effectiveness of the armed forces. The military should strive to bring all three commanders in various services to the same level.

The pride of the military is a powerful force that drives individuals to commit their lives to service. However, it is essential to maintain the integrity of the military hierarchy.By addressing these challenges and fostering a sense of equality and accountability, the military can continue to uphold its honor and serve its nation effectively on the global stage.

Ayesh Indranath Ranawaka
Editor in Cheif
Oceanlust Magazine

29/10/2023

*The Role of Academics.*

n a world full of diversity and differences of opinion, the role of academics in shaping the lives of university students is more critical than ever. *We firmly believe that it is the moral responsibility of academics to guide every child, regardless of their situation or motivation, onto the right path. Education should be a beacon of hope, nurturing young minds to become responsible, compassionate, and capable members of society.*

As educators, it is essential to remember that their responsibility goes beyond mere dissemination of knowledge. It encompasses the duty to empower students and ensure they receive the guidance they need to succeed. Regardless of their background or current circumstances, every child deserves the opportunity to grow and develop to their fullest potential.

It is our firm belief that no person or institution should attempt to suppress students' dreams or hinder their career paths simply because academics do not agree with their opinions. Such actions not only stifle individual growth but also inhibit the progress of society as a whole.

History is replete with instances where individuals, who were initially at a disadvantage or faced adversity, rose above their circumstances when provided with a nurturing and supportive environment.

Sri Lanka, like the rest of the world, has its own share of inspirational stories. The nation's history is a testament to the transformative power of positive moral systems and unwavering guidance. Individuals who were once in dire situations, facing insurmountable odds, were able to bring about substantial changes in the social landscape.

By offering mentorship and support, academics can help students channel their energies and talents towards productive goals. We must remember that every student possesses unique qualities, perspectives, and potential contributions to society. It is the collective responsibility of academics to ensure that their paths are not obstructed but illuminated, allowing them to realize their dreams and make a positive impact.

Education should be a safe space where diversity of thought is embraced, and university students are encouraged to express their opinions and ideas. It is through constructive dialogue and the exchange of ideas that true learning occurs.

Academics must foster an environment where intellectual growth is nurtured, and students are equipped with the tools to navigate the complexities of the world.

The role of academics in shaping the lives of students is one of immense responsibility. It is their moral duty to guide and inspire every child, regardless of their situation or motivation,or political differences . Suppression of students' dreams and career aspirations based on differences in opinion is not only unjust but detrimental to the progress of society. Instead, let academics be the mentors and educators who enable students to rise above their challenges, just as many have done throughout history, contributing to positive changes in our social fabric.

*Boasting about the own Doctorates or infrastructure facilities of the institution will lead us Nowhere .*

Ayesh Indranath Ranawaka
Executive Director
INORA .