Cey-Nor training institute for fishermen

Lalin FERNANDOPULLE

The Cey-Nor Foundation in collaboration with the German Technical Cooperation (GTZ), the Boat Building Technology Institute, DIMO and Ceyline has set up a training institute for fishermen in the Eastern province to enhance their navigational skills that would be needed for overseas employment.

Cey-Nor Foundation, Chairman, Rohan Jayasinghe said the Cey-Nor Training Institute set up with an investment of Rs. 25 million is the brainchild of Basil Rajapaksa Senior Advisor to the President.

"The objectives of the training institute are to develop the skills in the craft of fishermen in the East that would help enhance their livelihood and be geared for foreign employment", Jayasinghe said.

The institute will provide training on boat engine and hull repairing, techniques to avoid deep sea crisis and modern craft technology.

Jayasinghe said there is a good response from fishermen in the area and already the first batch of trainees has been selected for courses ranging from three to six months. "Initially training courses have been confined to 15 participants to provide a comprehensive training. A course for seamen will be offered within the next three months", he said.

"Work on the slipway in the Trincomalee Cod Bay Harbour is in progress", Jayasinghe said.

Meanwhile the Cey-Nor Foundation has completed the mould to build the first sashimi ships that would be ready by the end of the year to be exported to Somalia.

"There are orders from India for multi-day fishing boats which are also in great demand locally.

Moulds are ready to manufacture 55 ft and above fibre glass boats", he said.