Job-oriented training scholarships under new National Education Policy framework

In a bid to enhance vocational training and job-oriented education, the Cabinet of Ministers on Monday approved a new initiative with an investment of Rs. 100 million, which will be supported through an agreement between the Government and the Asian Development Bank (ADB).

Starting in 2025, the program will award 50,000 job -oriented training scholarships annually across both public and private sector vocational training centres. Additionally, 60,000 vocational training courses will be made available each year for students engaged in secondary education.

The proposal to this effect was submitted by President Ranil Wickremesinghe, who also serves as the Chairman of the Supervisory Committee responsible for the implementation of the National Education Policy framework.

“This framework aims to bridge the gap between education and employment by equipping students with practical skills and training that meet the demands of the job market,” Cabinet Spokesman and Minister Bandula Gunawardena said at the weekly post-Cabinet meeting media briefing yesterday.

He explained that these proposals are part of the execution of the National Education Policy Framework, which has been prioritised by the Supervisory Committee on National Education Policy.