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Industries Minister Dr. Ramesh Pathirana last week inaugurated the newest facility of the Sri Lanka Institute of Textile and Apparel (SLITA) , marking a significant step forward for knowledge building in this crucial sector.
SLITA stands as a pivotal Government institution, dedicated to providing courses specifically tailored to the apparel industry. The new state-of-the-art three-story facility within the SLITA premises in Rathmalana a momentous achievement for Sri Lanka’s textile and apparel education.
Speaking at the inauguration, Dr. Pathirana underscored Sri Lanka’s global leadership in maintaining high standards in the apparel industry.
“The inauguration of this cutting-edge educational facility marks a momentous leap forward in consolidating Sri Lanka’s standing as a global epicentre for textile and apparel education. It also reaffirms the Government’s steadfast commitment to nurturing growth and innovation within the country’s burgeoning apparel industry,” he added.
He highlighted that SLITA has played a pivotal role in supporting the nation’s industry and in expanding educational resources and infrastructure vital for the sector’s growth.
The Minister also stressed on the paramount importance of fostering research, innovation, and the development of value-added products within the apparel industry, as a means to further strengthen the country’s export earnings.
Beyond education, SLITA also serves a vital role in offering testing, technical services, and consultancy, all aimed at advancing Sri Lanka’s burgeoning apparel sector. At present, SLITA hosts a university degree-awarding facility and is poised to introduce full-fledged degree programs by the close of this year.
The newly inaugurated three-story facility has been carefully designed with the needs of the institution’s apparel-related programs in mind. This modern facility encompasses 12 fully equipped classrooms, five interactive classrooms, a specialised footwear unit, a cutting-edge laboratory, and advanced dressing machinery, ensuring students have access to cutting-edge resources.
Industry Ministry Secretary Thilaka Jayas-undara, SLITA Chairman Ranjith Wimalasuriya, SLITA Additional Secretary Nandani Samarawickrama, SLITA officials, university lecturers, and esteemed dignitaries graced the ceremony with their presence.
