KARACHI - The graduation ceremony of a batch of 306 Pakistan Navy (PN) sailors was held at the sailors' training establishment, PNS Himalaya, Manora on Saturday. Karachi Port Trust General Manager (Operations) Rear Admiral Azhar Hayat was the chief guest at the passing-out parade, which was attended a large number of senior naval officers and parents of sailors. The sailors have formally joined PN force upon completion of 17 weeks rigorous training that included combat, sea survival and technical training.
Addressing the ceremony, the chief guest said the country is passing through a critical phase as the security situation in the Northern Areas and the recent floods have resulted in a financial crunch. "The PN stands committed to fulfil all responsibilities assigned to it and apart from the sacred duty of guarding the sea frontiers, the navy is making all-out efforts for the rehabilitation of flood survivors," he added. The rapidly changing technology has made naval warfare scenario much more complex than ever before, Hayat said, adding the PN has, therefore, is focused on acquiring latest technology. Extending his felicitations to the graduating sailors, he urged that besides improving upon their professional capabilities, they should inculcate traits of a good citizen and contribute towards developing a society where justice, tolerance, enlightenment and brotherhood reign supreme. Earlier in his welcome address, the PNS Himalaya commanding officer highlighted the salient features of the training imparted to the sailors. The sailors are subjected to high-tech training environment adopting latest techniques, he said, adding that apart from professional training and computer education, they also participate in various sports and co-curricular activities. Later, the chief guest distributed prizes among the winners. The trophy of Chief of Naval Staff for overall best performance was won. Commander Karachi gold medal for best performance in academics and in sports were given to Zunair Tariq and Tauqir Abbas, respectively. The Khyber Squadron was awarded the Proficiency Banner. The PN stands committed to fulfil all responsibilities assigned to it and apart from the sacred duty of guarding the sea frontiers, the navy is making all-out efforts for the rehabilitation of flood survivors.
