The Australian government will provide 1.6 billion rupees in aid and technical assistance for four years for strengthening Sri Lanka’s tourism sector, by providing training and mentoring for employees and small businesses. This program will help Sri Lanka develop a highly proficient workforce and place itself as a premier tourist destination.
Australian High Commissioner Bryce Hutchesson along with Sri Lankan Minister for Skills Development and Vocational Training the Mahinda Samarasinghe launched the Skills for Inclusive Growth Program recently. To quote Hutchesson, “Australia understands tourism. It is one of our most important exports. We also understand skills development. We have a world-class education system and one of the world’s best vocational training systems.” This program will benefit local communities and businesses – with an initial focus in Ampara, Batticaloa, Trincomalee and Polonnaruwa districts and will put importance on local women, underemployed, youth and those with disability. The program will support the full value chain of the tourism sector – for example, food suppliers, hospitality trainers, artisans, surf instructors, spa owners, accommodation providers, taxi drivers – as well as district planners, park rangers, industry regulators and business chambers.

(TAT)