Sinopec strengthens Sri Lanka’s energy sector with co-launch of Energy Talent Growth Program

Sinopec, a global leader in the energy sector, has marked another significant milestone in Sri Lanka with the co-launch of the Energy Talent Growth Program in Colombo and Beijing. This ground-breaking joint professional training initiative is designed to shape the future of Sri Lanka’s energy workforce, showcasing Sinopec’s commitment to integrating resources, global expertise, and shared values between the two nations.

The Energy Talent Growth Program represents a new model of collaboration, bringing together the expertise of Sinopec and local stakeholders to create transformative opportunities. The inaugural cohort includes 18 of Sri Lanka’s highest-performing station managers and staff, selected from a network of 150 franchised fuel stations. These participants are now engaged in a 10 day immersive experience in China, gaining first-hand exposure to Sinopec’s advanced operational standards, innovative safety protocols, and strategic vision.

The program is structured in two phases, starting with a foundational training in Colombo and advancing to immersive learning experiences in China. The session in Colombo focused on theoretical studies in filling station operations and HSE (Health, Safety, and Environment) standards, while the subsequent phase in Beijing involved dynamic, hands-on training led by Sinopec’s expert teams. The curriculum combines theoretical study with practical application through lectures and visits to key Sinopec sites, culminating in a rigorous skills examination that assesses participants’ understanding of Sinopec’s global operations and corporate culture while fostering deeper industrial and cultural collaboration.

Underscoring the importance of this program Sri Lankan Ambassador to China Majintha Jayesinghe highlighted the program’s significance, stating, “These initiatives demonstrate Sinopec’s dedication to uplifting Sri Lankan professionals while fostering deeper ties between our nations. This program is not only about skill enhancement but also about building enduring relationships that bridge cultures.”

Representative of Sinopec in Sri Lanka Hao Jian emphasised the collaborative vision behind the program, stating, “Our mission is to empower Sri Lanka’s workforce with the skills and knowledge needed to excel in a global energy landscape. This initiative embodies our commitment to sustainable progress, both for the energy sector and the communities we serve. It also reflects the strength of the partnership between our two nations.”

Beyond training, Sinopec has reinforced its commitment to Sri Lanka through ongoing investments in modernising the energy infrastructure. Over the past seven months, the company has ensured smooth operations across all 150 franchised filling stations while undertaking renovations, safety upgrades, and servicing improvements. These efforts underline Sinopec’s vision of revitalising the nation’s energy sector while providing enhancing facilities and services for customers and stakeholders.

China’s Economic and Commercial Counsellor to Sri Lanka Tang Yandi, praised Sinopec’s efforts, noting, “This program exemplifies the power of collaboration. By combining technical expertise with cultural understanding, Sinopec is creating a resilient and skilled workforce ready to meet the challenges of a dynamic energy sector.”

Sri Lanka’s Energy Ministry reinforced such perspective. Director of Planning Aruna Athukorala remarked, “Sinopec has gone beyond its operational role to uplift the energy sector through meaningful partnerships and skill-building initiatives. This program reflects their unwavering commitment to Sri Lanka’s progress.”

Education Ministry Director of Training Dimuthu Chandrasiri further emphasised the importance of vocational education in national development. She stated, “This initiative underscores the power of partnerships between industry and Government. Sinopec’s dedication to skill-building complements the Government’s efforts to enhance human capital and bridge skill gaps in key industries.”

Going forward, the Energy Talent Growth Program is set to continue its expansion throughout Sri Lanka, with the aim of guaranteeing that each station manager can receive industry-leading training. By integrating technical development and cultural exchange, Sinopec is cultivating a workforce that is forward-thinking and well-prepared to handle the intricacies of the global energy industry.

Through these endeavours, Sinopec has solidified its position as a transformative partner in Sri Lanka’s energy sector. It has been actively advocating for innovation, demonstrating resilience, and promoting sustainable growth, in alignment with Sri Lanka’s energy sector aspirations.