Cadet Roni Nokelainen has become the first Finn to graduate from the British officer academy Royal Military Academy Sandhurst. According to the Finnish National Defence University, the training strengthens military educational cooperation between Finland and the United Kingdom.
According to a press release from the Finnish National Defence University, Roni Nokelainen completed the one-year officer training programme at the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst on 7 August. He was one of 40 international cadets to graduate at this year's ceremony.
The graduation ceremony was attended by the Finnish Chief of Army, Lieutenant General Pasi Välimäki, and the Head of the Cadet School, Colonel Pasi Seppälä, who paid tribute to the Finnish cadet.
The Royal Military Academy Sandhurst trains officers for the British Army as well as cadets from a number of allied and partner nations. According to the National Defence University, Nokelainen's graduation represents a milestone in Finnish-British defence cooperation and gives the Finnish Defence Forces access to experiences and international networks gained through the training.
Following the exchange year, Nokelainen will return to his studies at the Finnish National Defence University.