Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya emphasized the government’s commitment to fostering a skilled workforce to meet the demands of both local and international labor markets. Speaking at a certificate-awarding ceremony hosted by the Sri Lanka Vocational Training Authority at the Bandaranaike Memorial International Conference Hall, the Prime Minister outlined the country’s roadmap for workforce development.
During the event, certificates were awarded to 761 students who completed diploma programs across 13 disciplines under the Vocational Training Authority. Highlighting the importance of skilled labor, Prime Minister Amarasuriya elaborated on the government’s development vision and initiatives to enhance technical and vocational education.
In her address, the Prime Minister stated, “A nation’s development relies on individuals equipped with diverse skills. Our government’s aim is to create a society where no one is left behind through an inclusive education system. Youth must be prepared for full employment by acquiring skills that are directly relevant to the job market while fostering entrepreneurial capabilities. By bridging the skills gap, we can better align our workforce with labor market demands.”
Dr. Amarasuriya detailed plans to provide technical and vocational education from school to tertiary levels, ensuring that young people can access training opportunities that are directly linked to employment. These initiatives will include infrastructure upgrades at training centers, capacity development to enhance the quality of training, and the creation of various pathways for youth to pursue vocational education.
The Prime Minister stressed the importance of valuing all professions, ensuring that individuals in any field feel recognized and respected. “Every individual entering a chosen profession must be assured that they are valued members of society. We must also instill the confidence that they can thrive in their chosen careers,” she said.
With a vision to empower youth and tap into their potential, the government is focusing on vocational and technical education as key pillars for national development. These efforts aim to address the growing skills gap, improve employment opportunities, and contribute to economic growth by creating a workforce that meets global standards.
The ceremony underscored the government’s ongoing commitment to nurturing young talent and providing them with the tools to succeed in an increasingly competitive global economy.
