Cabinet nod to convert SLITHM into tertiary education institution

The Cabinet of Ministers on Monday decided to make necessary legal provisions to Tourism Act No. 38 of 2005 to upgrade the Sri Lanka Institute of Tourism and Hotel Management (SLITHM) to a tertiary level education organisation.

SLITHM currently conducts training courses from foundation-level to management-level programs, based primarily on theory. The lack of adequate field-level practical training was a concern that the industry had been facing for decades in absorbing talent.

“The institute has been identified as suitable for conducting degree courses in the field of tourism with adequate field training. This will be a great stepping stone in enhancing the capacity required for the tourism industry,” Co-Cabinet Spokesman and Mass Media Minister Keheliya Rambukwella said.

The proposal to this effect was submitted by Tourism Minister Prasanna Ranatunga.

Rambukwella also pointed out that SLITHM has produced students that are working in top-ranking positions in world-renowned international hotel chains.