Improving vocational training in Sri Lanka

Context

Sri Lanka's economy has suffered a severe setback during the crises of recent years. Revitalising it and enabling ecological change will remain a priority for Sri Lanka in the coming years.

The current shortage of skilled workers is exacerbated by labour migration and impedes national economic recovery.

In addition, income and job prospects must be created for the entire population, including disadvantaged groups. This is crucial to establishing economic stability in the country.

Objective

The quality of vocational training has improved for all population groups in terms of labour market relevance, accessibility and ecological change.

Approach

The project works with the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC) of the Federal Department of Foreign Affairs (FDFA). Together, they support vocational training institutions of the Sri Lankan Government, vocational training facilities and partners from the private sector in reforming vocational training. The project’s primary objective is to ensure that vocational training meets the current needs of the labour market and increases the employability of graduates.

To achieve this, it trains managers from public institutions in the areas of digitalisation, management and equality. Another focus is on establishing a political dialogue forum on vocational training. The project advises vocational training centres and supports efforts to work with the private sector. At the same time, disadvantaged groups receive training on how to start a business. Content on environmental sustainability is also being added to curricula.

To ensure successful implementation, the project cooperates with the Ministry of Education, the Tertiary and Vocational Education Commission (TVEC), the Vocational Training Authority of Sri Lanka (VTA), the National Apprentice and Industrial Training Authority (NAITA), the Sri Lanka - German Training Institute (SLGTI) and the Ceylon-German Technical Training Institute (CGTTI).

Last update: June 2024