The Ministry of Defence is exploring a new programme to provide vocational qualifications and employment opportunities, including overseas jobs, for personnel retiring from Sri Lanka’s Tri-Forces.
The initiative was discussed at a meeting chaired by Deputy Minister of Defence Major General Aruna Jayasekara (Retd.) on October 29, focusing on helping retired military personnel secure stable incomes through recognised vocational training.
According to the Ministry of Defence, the proposed programme aims to address the professional and financial challenges faced by service personnel after retirement, particularly those who served in non-technical roles.
The programme will focus on providing National Vocational Qualifications (NVQ) and other recognised certifications to help former military personnel enter both local and international employment markets.
Training opportunities under consideration include:
– Electric Vehicle (EV) technology and automotive engineering
– Hotel management, pastry and bakery production
– Caregiving and preschool teacher training
– Mechatronics, electronics and robotics
– Firefighting and private security services
– Agriculture and cosmetology
Special attention will be given to employment opportunities in international and maritime sectors.
The discussion also explored ways to recognise the practical skills and professional experience gained by military personnel during their service through NVQ or diploma-level qualifications.
Officials proposed integrating existing military training programmes with courses offered by the Ranaviru Resource Centre and the Vocational Training Authority (VTA).
The possibility of introducing vocational training before retirement, using VTA district centres across the country, was also discussed.
The Ministry said an action plan, including the necessary financial allocations, would be considered to implement the initiative.
Senior officials from the Ministry of Defence, Vocational Training Authority and the three armed forces participated in the discussion.
The proposed programme is intended to help military personnel transition into civilian employment while ensuring their skills and experience continue to receive professional recognition.
The initiative remains at the planning stage, with implementation arrangements yet to be finalised. (Newswire)
