Job avenue directing programme for youths

P P G Sugathadsa, Thihagoda group correspondent

The Career Guidance Unit of the Matara District Secretariat has embarked on a programme directing job aspirants and school leavers in the district for employment avenues.

Unit head Palitha Padmasiri said the programmes are underway at Divisional Secretariat Division level in Matara. He said measures have been initiated to conduct job markets with the participation of leading businessmen, entrepreneurs and heads of non governmental organisations in the district in this regard. "Job aspirants and school leavers will also be called. Applicants will be selected on vacancies available with the concurrence of the business community. A job market will be held at the Divisional Secretariat Office, Akuressa and Hakmana and Devinuwara Divisional Secretariat offices," he said. Awareness workshops will also be held to enable them to reach their expectations in finding employment opportunities.

Three of these programmes are to be conducted at the Divisional Secretariat offices in Thihagoda and Kamburupitiya, Padmasiri said. Acknowledging, understanding and practical training will also be given to them on how to prepare bio - data applications for interviews for employment, he said.

Statistical data available at the Matara District Secretariat revealed that the number of unemployed persons in the district of Matara exceeds 20,000, Padmasiri said.The Department of Man Power and Employment will handle these programmes with the supervision of the District Secretary Matara W K K Atukorala, he said.