JAT Holding partners NAITA to support and develop woodcraft

In an effort to support wood craftsmanship in Sri Lanka, JAT Holdings PLC has launched the JAT ‘Pinthaaroo-Shilpee Abhiman’ program to provide training and apprenticeships to woodcraftsmen, thus encouraging a new generation to take up this important age-old craft. 

This initiative is an extension of the JAT Sayerlack Sathkaraya CSR program and is being conducted in partnership with the National Apprentice Industrial Training Authority (NAITA), under the auspices of the Ministry of Skills Development, Vocational Education, Research and Innovation. Through this program, aspiring woodcraftsmen can participate in and obtain an NVQ Level 3 Certification for Woodcraftsmen (Furniture Finisher) with all expenses borne by JAT Holdings PLC. 

The partnership was officially entered into through the signing of a special MOU between JAT Holdings PLC and NAITA, at a ceremony held at the JAT Holdings Auditorium on the morning of the 10th of December 2021. A press conference was also held at the event, which was attended by top officials from JAT, NAITA and the Ministry, including the Minister for Skills Development, Vocational Education, Research & Innovation Dr. Seetha Arambepola, JAT Holdings Plc Founder and Managing Director Aelian Gunawardene, NAITA Chairman Tharanga Nalin Gamlath and JAT Holdings CEO and Executive Director Nishal Ferdinando. Signifying the launch of the program, 16 wood craftsmen were registered as part of the inaugural batch, at the event.

JAT Holdings PLC Director Sales and Technical Wasantha Gunaratne said: “At JAT, we are always keen to explore possibilities to support the nation and its growth through a skilled and competent youth and workforce. As a leader in wood coatings, we are aware of the fact that top class woodcraft is a dwindling skill. Thus, we want to work to save this skill from dying out and convince a new generation that this is a viable career and a robust source of income. Through the JAT Pinthaaroo-Shilpee Abhiman program, we will assess and nominate uncertified but skilled woodcraftsmen who will then be able to obtain the NVQ Level 3 qualification in a shorter time than normal, as a result of our recommendation and assurance to NAITA. Ultimately, this will help uplift the quality of woodcraft in Sri Lanka, while also uplifting the craftsmen, uncovering new talent, and providing craftsmen with a qualification that is globally recognized. As a business that is close to our stakeholders, JAT’s existing loyalty members and craftsmen with whom we have long-term relationships will be given preference for entry to this program.”

Minister Dr. Arambepola commented, “It is of great importance that we focus on the development of local skills and talent, in order for the nation to progress as a whole. With the support of JAT Holdings PLC, we are hopeful that the Pinthaaroo-Shilpee Abhiman program will play an important role in helping many individuals build their craftsmanship and self-confidence, further establishing their place in society. Therefore, I would like to extend my gratitude to JAT Holdings PLC and NAITA, and wish them the best with this initiative.”

NAITA Chairman Gamlath also commented on the initiative saying, “We have very talented people in this country who can go very far if equipped with the right skills and given the right training. Thus, we are pleased to partner with JAT Holdings in this matter, to encourage and support our local craftsmen.”