Help for under-privileged youth to improve business
The Ceylon Chamber of Commerce (CCC) and the Hambantota District
Chamber of Commerce (HDCC) launched the 'Youth Business Sri Lanka'
program islandwide on Wednesday to help the under-privileged and
disadvantaged youth to start and improve their business.
The HDCC is the founder and custodian of the Hambantota Youth
Business Trust (HYBT) - a program launched in 1997 modelled on HRM, the
Prince of Wales Youth Business Program to assist disadvantaged youth
between 18-35 to start and develop their businesses.
The HYBT also helps to check youth unrest and minimise social
conflicts. Director General, Hambantota Chamber of Commerce Azmi Thassim
said during the 10 years in operation the Youth Business of Sri Lanka
program has helped over 250 youth to start their enterprises and be good
entrepreneurs.
"Raising funds for programs has never been an issue. The local
business community has recognised the importance of helping youth and
have become mentors", he said.
He said developing entrepreneurial skills of youth and helping them
to be businessmen will help create more employment opportunities in the
villages and develop the country's economy.
The CCC hosted the national program and the inaugural meeting of the
board of trustees of YBSL.
Executive Director, Youth Business International (YBI)-UK Andrew
Davenport said the YBI with a global network of over 40 youth business
programs has helped youth with less opportunities to excel in their
businesses.
The national program will be implemented initially in Vavuniya,
Trincomalee, Badulla and the Moneragala districts. |