Job opportunities are in Japan for 10,000 individuals – Govt

January 30, 2024 at 5:34 PM

Job opportunities are in Japan for 10,000 individuals who pass the Language Proficiency Test, State Minister of Social Empowerment Anupa Pasqual said today.

Recognizing the potential of international opportunities, State Minister Pasqual mentioned about the plans to send 10,000 individuals proficient in Japanese to secure jobs abroad. 

This initiative leverages existing language skills to open doors to lucrative employment options in a new market, he pointed out.

The State Minister also said that by further enhancing access to foreign jobs and catering to a wider range of opportunities, the government aims to provide 100,000 additional foreign jobs for Sri Lankan citizens this year. 

This ambitious target underscores the commitment to investing in skills development and training programs, ensuring Sri Lanka’s workforce is prepared for the demands of the global market, the State Minister explained.

The State Minister of Social Empowerment made the remarks while unveiling a multi-pronged approach to foster national stability and prosperity during a press briefing held at the Presidential Media Centre (PMC) today (Jan 30).

The multi-pronged approach to fostering national stability and prosperity focuses on empowering vulnerable populations, creating foreign employment opportunities and enhancing skills development.

Expressing optimism for a brighter future, State Minister Anupa Pasqual unveiled a comprehensive plan, “New Village, New Country, Entrepreneurial State,” that aims to unlock the potential of 1.2 million needy families and propel them towards economic independence.

The State Minister further highlighted the government’s dedication to building a more stable and prosperous future for Sri Lanka by empowering its people, both within the country and by connecting them to international opportunities.

“Our mission for 2024 is to uplift Sri Lanka through Aswasuma, offering social security to 2.0 million beneficiaries and empowering 300,000 vulnerable families, laying the foundation for a prosperous “New village, New country, Entrepreneurial state”.

“Empowering beneficiaries is our ultimate objective, and we’re moving beyond simply providing financial assistance to achieve it. Our revamped system focuses on creating opportunities for foreign employment, with 10,000 Japanese Language Proficiency Test passers already placed abroad and a further 100,000 foreign jobs targeted,” he said.

State Minister Pasqual further said; “In addition to equipping beneficiaries with vital professional skills through targeted training programs, we propose fostering the cultivation of high-value crops like tea, cinnamon, and pepper for export. This dual approach, combining skill development and export-oriented agriculture, promises a sustainable path towards economic empowerment.

“In a concerted effort to enhance the Samurdhi Development Department, a comprehensive promotion program is being implemented, targeting over 25,000 individuals. President Wickremesinghe’s ambition is to empower the department’s workforce, with 2,000 promotions already planned for next April, and ultimately pivot its focus from mere welfare provision towards entrepreneurial development,” he said. 

The State Minister of Social Empowerment added that a significant step has been taken to bolster youth vocational training, with three agreements signed with China. (NewsWire)