Vocational training essential for economic growth - Minister

US Government-funded vocational training centre opens in Ambalangoda:

Vocational and Technical Training Minister Piyasena Gamage and US Embassy Deputy Chief of Mission James R. Moore together opened a newly rebuilt vocational training center (VTC) in Ambalangoda on December 18.

Speaking at the ceremony to mark the opening, Moore said: "The US Government is honoured to support the construction of a facility that will provide greater opportunities for local youth - for the next generation in your country."

Gamage emphasised the importance of vocational training for economic growth at the local level, and he thanked the US Government for its cooperation with his Ministry on other projects throughout Sri Lanka.

Construction of the VTC was funded by a grant from the US Agency for International Development (USAID).

The new facility not only replaces the old building, ravaged by the tsunami three years ago, but also represents USAID's commitment to "building back better" with a much enhanced facility.

Moreover, the grant paid for the purchase of advanced training equipment and high-quality tools.

USAID collaborated with the Vocational Training Authority (VTA) to implement the grant, especially in developing the curriculum that will be utilised in the new facility.

The curriculum design took into account the job market, the requests of the residents of the region around Ambalangoda, and the course offerings at nearby VTCs.

As a result of this study and consultation, training to be offered in Ambalangoda will include outboard motor repair, beauty culture, and three-wheeler and motorcycle repair.

As part of its tsunami reconstruction efforts in Sri Lanka, USAID will have built by 2008 more than a dozen vocational training centers throughout the country, while also working with the VTA on curriculum development and teacher training.