SAARC human resources to be developed

Rasika Somarathna

COLOMBO: The second meeting of the Technical Committee on Human Resource Development in SAARC countries started on Tuesday, with the intention of fulfilling the vision of an economically prosperous and vibrant South Asia through the development of its human resource capability.

The committee is to deliberate and exchange frank and meaningful views on various subjects, pertaining to the development of Human Resource capability in the region under the regional integrated programme of action.

In addition the member countries will review the ongoing activities and progress in the implementation of decisions of the first meeting.

The committee is to formulate an action plan at the end of deliberations under the RIPA, to address issues on HR development, education, culture, sports and skills development.

Education Minister Susil Premajayanth inaugurating the session said: "The SAARC region has a deep and rich history, that draws inspiration from a mosaic of diverse and rich plurality of cultural, linguistic, philosophical and spiritual traditions. This heritage include giving birth to and nurturing three of the worlds noblest religious traditions".

"Yet there are challenges. Although we account for one fifth of humanity, a large number languish in poverty and ignorance. We could overcome this with proper education. Education is such an integral part of HR development," Premajayanth said.

According to the Minister, in 2003 Sri Lanka was ranked 99th in the Human development index and has steadily risen in rankings to be placed 93rd last year.The Minister stressed the importance of going further with the help of other SAARC Nations.