‘Wise Woman’ national initiative debuts under the patronage of President

• 10 outstanding women receive recognition via initiative championed by the State Ministry of Skills Development, Vocational Education, Research and Innovation

The 'Wise Woman' national program was launched yesterday under the patronage of President Gotabaya Rajapaksa with the intention of empowering women to their full potential and get their contribution to the economy.

Prof. Neelika Malavige, Dr. Asha de Vos, Kasturi Wilson, Nipuni Karunaratne, Melanie Wagaarachchi, Pavithra Gunaratne, Rangana Weerawardena, Ayanthi Gunasekara, Nelka Shiromala and Thilanka Abeywardena were the women who were recognised for their contribution to the progress of the country by excelling in several fields. 

The percentage of women in the country is 52%. However, a survey has revealed that the share of female labour in the total population is as low as 30%. The objective of the Wise Woman program is to provide skill development and vocational training for women and get their contribution to the national economy. It is implemented by the State Ministry of Skills Development, Vocational Education, Research and Innovation.

State Minister Seetha Arambepola stated that when women are empowered, the country will not be second to any other in the face of any challenge.

“Our country has a female workforce that is more valuable than gems unearthed and more valuable than oil reserves that may or may not be found,” said Arambepola, adding that when the capacities of women are identified and recognised, they have the strength to be resilient even during a time of a catastrophic pandemic.

Minister Dinesh Gunawardena, State Ministers Vijitha Berugoda, Piyal Nishantha, Ambassadors, Government officials and women who have excelled in various fields were also present.