Canadian volunteer exchange programme to assist tea, apparel and tourism sectors

28 August 2015 05:34 am Views - 3097

Canadian High Commissioner Shelley Whiting with the first batch of Canadian and Sri Lankan volunteers

The Canadian volunteer co-operation programme UNITERRA which supports development of inclusive market opportunities for tea, apparel and tourism sectors through the exchange of skilled volunteers is set to recommence in Sri Lanka after a lapse of 5 years. 
The volunteer programme is implemented by World University Service of Canada (WUSC) and the Centre for International Studies and Cooperation (CECI). 
The UNITERRA program, which was in operation in Sri Lanka for five years prior to its interruption in 2009, is expected to boost technical co-operation and the relations between the two countries. 

“This program will further the close relations between our two countries while contributing to sustainable economic growth in high-demand sectors in Sri Lanka,”  Canadian High Commissioner Shelley Whiting said when she met with the first batch of Canadian and Sri Lankan volunteers recently.  
Under the program, UNITERRA volunteers will build capacity and facilitate linkages between sectors and supporting contributors, such as Chambers of Commerce and vocational training institutes, to better respond to the employment needs of women and youth across the island. 
The volunteers will also identify the key needs of each sector and develop exchanges to share skills, with the purpose of improving the employability of women and youth. 


Tea, garment, and tourism and hospitality sectors are the focus of the program as these industries are in high demand, offer long term opportunities and have high income earning potential for women and youth. 
Another central feature of the programme will be to promote quality and dignity of employment.      
UNITERRA is a global volunteer program spanning 14 countries and is focused on improving socio-economic conditions by strengthening networks and organizations and pooling expertise and knowledge. 
It is funded by the Government of Canada’s Department of Foreign Affairs, Trade and Development (DFATD), and jointly implemented by (WUSC) and (CECI).