Skills That Outlast Military Service
Sri Lanka is considering a structured vocational training programme to help officers and other ranks retiring from the Tri Services secure second careers through recognised National Vocational Qualifications (NVQ).
The proposal was discussed on 29 October at the Office of the Deputy Minister of Defence, under the chairmanship of Deputy Minister of Defence Major General Aruna Jayasekara (Retd.).
The discussion focused on the professional and financial difficulties faced by military personnel after retirement and the need to equip them with recognised qualifications that could open doors to stable employment in Sri Lanka and overseas.
Particular attention was given to personnel who served in non-technical fields and may not have formal vocational qualifications. NVQ Level 4, which provides educational and vocational recognition equivalent to the G.C.E. Ordinary Level standard, was identified as an important pathway.
Proposals included bringing together existing Tri Services training programmes with courses offered through the Ranaviru Resource Centre and upgrading them to meet modern vocational standards.
The proposed training areas cover a wide range of employment opportunities, including electric vehicle technology, hotel management, pastry and bakery production, cosmetology, preschool teaching, mechatronics, electronics, robotics, caregiving, firefighting, agriculture and maritime-related occupations.
The discussion also considered recognising the practical knowledge and professional experience gained during military service through NVQ or diploma-level certification. Improving professional standards among retired personnel working in the private security sector was another area of attention.
For those approaching retirement, the district-centre network of the Vocational Training Authority (VTA) could be used to deliver training programmes. Officials also discussed preparing an action plan and securing the necessary financial allocations.
The initiative aims to help retired service personnel move into new careers while protecting their dignity and ensuring that the skills and experience gained during years of service receive proper recognition.
The Additional Secretary (Defence), Director General of the Vocational Training Authority, Military Liaison Officer of the Ministry of Defence, Directors General of Training of the Tri Services, Director General of Veterans’ Affairs and Rehabilitation of the Sri Lanka Army, senior Tri Services officers and other government officials attended the discussion.
