Australian govt.’s S4IG initiative commits to sustainable skill development

Key partners and stakeholders at S4IG Sustainability Conference showcased their commitment to supporting initiatives beyond S4IG closing in November 2024

The recently concluded Skills for Inclusive Growth (S4IG) Stakeholder Sustainability Conference brought together key stakeholders from both the public and private sectors.

The event marked a significant milestone for S4IG and its partners during this year of completion. S4IG, an Australian government initiative, in collaboration with the Sri Lankan Education Ministry, aims to foster sustainable job creation, increased income and business growth, for marginalised and disadvantaged individuals through skill development.

It has been a key pillar of Australia’s support for Sri Lanka’s economic recovery and inclusive socioeconomic development. Particularly noteworthy is the programme’s focus on women and people with disability, ensuring inclusive skill development across the tourism value chain.

During the conference, their partners reaffirmed their commitment to the continuity of S4IG initiatives beyond the programme’s conclusion in 2024. They appreciated the innovative interventions and skill development initiatives, which have empowered individuals and communities within the tourism sector. As tourism remains a vital component of Sri Lanka’s economic growth, S4IG’s impact extends beyond individual skill development to benefit the wider economy. 

In Sri Lanka, inclusion lies at the heart of the programme’s initiatives, bolstered by policy-level accommodations for people with disability. The professional cookery course, embraced by both public and private sectors, has proven financially successful for the delivering institutes. 

Additionally, the innovative approach to business coaching empowers over 170 small and medium-sized enterprises across the country. 

Vocational Training Authority Vice Chairman Lakshman Fernando stated, “Our partnership with S4IG has yielded remarkable results and we remain dedicated to sustaining this positive trajectory.”

Similarly, Tertiary and Vocational Education Commission Deputy Director General Janaka Jayalath stated, “We will update the reasonable adjustment circulars in a timely manner to incorporate global best practices.” 

PizzaKraft Lanka (Pvt.) Ltd Director People and Culture Gamma Nuwan Jayaweera stated that the company currently employs 160 people with disabilities and they plan to double this number by 2026. 

Team leader Stephen Lodziak said, “Our skills models are not only developed but also embedded and implemented by our committed public and private partners across Sri Lanka.”