Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya emphasized that building a skilled workforce capable of meeting the needs of both local and global labor markets is a key objective of the government’s development vision.

The Prime Minister made these remarks on 27th December at the Bandaranaike Memorial International Conference Hall [BMICH] during the certificate awarding ceremony for students who completed diploma programs under the Sri Lanka Vocational Training Authority.

At the event, certificates were awarded to 761 young individuals who successfully completed diploma courses across thirteen subjects.

Speaking further, Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya stated: “For a country, a nation, or a society to develop, it requires individuals with diverse skills. Our government is committed to ensuring that no one is left behind in the education system. Youth must acquire skills that are directly relevant to achieving full employment, and we must foster a workforce with entrepreneurial capabilities. This approach will help bridge the skills gap between the labor market and the youth community.

Our policy statement emphasizes providing technical and vocational education from school to tertiary levels, allowing broader access to education and training opportunities that align with labor market needs.

Every profession should be valued, and individuals entering any profession should feel recognized and important as members of society. Instilling confidence that they can thrive in their chosen careers is essential.

The youth of Sri Lanka possess immense potential to shape a better future for the country. To utilize this, we must prioritize the development of vocational and technical education, improve training infrastructure, enhance training quality through capacity development, and create diverse pathways for youth to pursue vocational education.

The government is dedicated to expanding opportunities for young people in the vocational and technical education sector to build a skilled workforce aligned with local and global demands.”

The Acting Chairman of the Vocational Training Authority Samanthi Senanayake, Director General Major General Priyantha Weerasinghe, and diploma recipients attended the event.

[Prime Minister’s Media Division]