Food and Non-food process (January 2008)

A workshop was carried out on food and non food processing on 26th of November 2007. This workshop was held in Colombo, with a participation of 22 people. The participants came from various parts of the island such as Vavuniya, Galle, Gampaha and Colombo. The livelihood regional staffs were also among the participants. 

The objective of conducting this workshop was to train participants in food and non food processing activities so that they could go into their communities and train others. This workshop equipped participants with a much needed knowledge to start their own business and also to improve existing livelihoods. 

The participants were trained on how to make products such as Papadam (a savoury wafer), soap, jam, and candles in various shapes and sizes. As part of the training programme participants had practical sessions on making these products as well. The workshop was conducted by Mr Lakshman Gnanapragasam -  a private consultant and Retired Assistant Director of IDB ISO and HACCP, Mr T .H. T. T. Perera -  the Industrial Extension Officer of IDB and

Mr N B Soysa a Lab Instructor of IDB. These trainers had immense experience in the relevant fields. 

This workshop had a very good impact on the participants since it not only inspired them but also provided them with a means to establish a stable livelihood. We plan to hold many more similar workshops in 2008 with the Industrial Development Board.