English, IT training programs to start soon

by L. S. Ananda WEDAARACHCHI

The English and Information Technology job-oriented program, which will be organised by the Presidential Task Force for English and ICT, in collaboration with the Federation of Information Technology Industry Sri Lanka (FITIS), is expected to commence shortly.

Five thousand school leavers from all parts of the island will be selected for training under this program in collaboration with the Ministry of Education. In the first phase of the training program, six hundred students who have already been selected, will be trained at the computer training centres under the purview of the Association of Computer Training Organization of Sri Lanka (ACTOS).

"The national drive to improve the standard of English and Information Technology skills of the younger generation will be strengthened by this program," said Chairman of the Presidential Task Force for English and ICT Sarath Amunugama, Minister of Home Affairs.

The accelerated skills acquisition program comprises a curriculum that was developed on the initiative of the USAID as a means of delivering an integrated training program for youth to help them acquire and improve basic skills and knowledge in the English language and IT sphere.The course will also help them acquire a better perception of the workplace environment and what employers expect from their employees. At the same time, this program will provide youth a better understanding of the business world, considering the alternatives of joining the private sector or becoming entrepreneurial, the Minister said.