COLOMBO (News 1st) - Deputy Minister of Housing, Construction and Water Supply T.B. Sarath says steps will be taken to work together with schools to expand vocational training programs in the future.The Deputy Minister made these remarks while participating in a program launched by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Employment and Tourism to promote foreign employment opportunities and raise awareness about jobs available overseas.Deputy Minister of Housing, Construction and Water Supply said that a considerable number of employment opportunities for Sri Lankans are available overseas. Deputy Minister said workers with proper professional skills and training have greater opportunities to secure higher-paying jobs.According to Deputy Minister, Sri Lankan workers have earned a strong reputation and are highly trusted in many foreign countries. However, this trust was undermined in the past when individuals were sent abroad without meeting the necessary qualifications, often due to political influence and personal interests.Accordingly, The current government is committed to avoiding such practices. Suitable candidates are being selected based on the required criteria, and efforts are being made to provide them with proper and comprehensive training before they leave the country.It has also been planned to expand vocational training facilities in the future.As part of the new education reforms, certain schools could be integrated into vocational training programs, allowing their facilities to be used as training centers.These vocational training centers will be developed to cater to the requirements of both the local and international job markets.
