Canada initiates Rs. 50 m youth training centre

Ruwanthi Abeyakoon

Kamloops Municipal Council, Canada will put up a training facility for youth in Hambantota with an initial investment of Rs 50 million, Director General, Hambantota District Chamber of Commerce, Azmi Thassim said.

The "industry and the private sector needs trained and skilled labourers. The present quality of training is not compatible with the need of the industry. With airport and harbour projects during the next five to ten years, skilled labourers are essential. We will upgrade the skills of the youth in the district to meet this demand," he said.

Training would be provided mainly in the construction industry, carpentry and machinery. "Training will be provided aiming the mega projects taking place in the Southern Province.

Hambantota Traders' Association and the Chamber of Commerce will facilitate this project," he said.

"Construction of the building is progressing. The Canadian Rotary Club has provided equipment. Over 300 Canadians have come down to work at the sites. The training facility will consist of five buildings," he noted.

"We will recruit local trainers and the facility will be managed locally. This will create more jobs and bring back employment to the businessmen," he added.

Kamloops Municipal Council has also assisted with waste management projects, construction of houses for tsunami victims and supported businesses in the district.