This initiative has been underway since 2018 and is geographically based in Eastern and
North-Central Provinces specifically, in Batticaloa, Trincomalee, Ampara, and Polonnaruwa.
Its primary purpose is to address the skills gap in terms of training and qualification and to
contribute employment opportunities to the tourism value chain. This initiative prioritises
women and persons with disabilities and strives to provide equal and sustainable job
opportunities for all.
The ADT conducted surveys, mapped out needs and selected over 200 candidates for the
relevant programmes. The ADT partnered with various educational institutions with the aim of providing educational opportunities for those selected candidates to obtain Level Three and Four of the National Vocational Qualification (NVQ). A total of 182 candidates graduated with the NVQ, out of which 62 of those candidates are currently employed. Their contribution towards the tourism value chain has indefinitely improved their practical skills and standard of living.
The Easter Attacks brought on an evident decline in the tourism industry in the Batticaloa region. The ADT intervened with key industry market leaders to appeal on behalf of those struggling to obtain employment in their fields of training and qualification. As a result of the interventions made, 44 candidates gained employment in the hospitality industry.
Highlights
Ten candidates from Trincomalee, supported through the programme, received their lifeguard training certification.
Thirteen female candidates reading for a Beautician course graduated with the NVQ Level Three qualification in Batticaloa.
Meet Asmin
Asmin was able to follow a certificate course based on lifeguard training and lifesaving. As a result, he is now employed as a trainee pool lifeguard at the Bay Beach Hotel in Nilaveli, Trincomalee. Prior to this, Asmin was a daily labourer without a steady income and would constantly face challenges in providing for his family.
“This job is easier and less stressful”, explained Asmin. “My monthly salary is more than
sufficient to provide for my family”. As Asmin is grateful and has a stable source of
income, he has also found value in his own set of skills. “I did not know that there were
such opportunities in the tourism industry. I knew how to swim, but I did not know that I
could develop my career with this skill. It is thanks to this training!”