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Brain drain impediment to hospitality industry – Dr.Jayasinghe

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3 years ago

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By Harischandra Gunaratna

Chairman of the Institute of Hospitality, Dr. Harsha Jayasinghe on Tuesday said the brain drain in the country had not only led to a serious loss of talent but also hampered the industry’s ability to provide high-quality services and meet the demands of national and international visitors.

Speaking at the 31st AGM of the Institute of Hospitality Sri Lanka at Movenpick Colombo, Dr. Jayasinghe said Sri Lankans were leaving the country in droves seeking greener pastures and the hospitality industry had lost a large number trained personnel as a result, leaving the industry in dire straits.

Dr. Jayasinghe warned that if the authorities did not take immediate steps to address the issue, the country’s hospitality industry would suffer a crippling blow. He said the hotel industry played a pivotal role in Sri Lanka’s tourism sector, providing essential services and contributing to the economy. However, the shortage of skilled workers poses a significant challenge to the growth and development of this vital sector. Many skilled individuals including chefs, housekeepers, and other service staff, were leaving the country in search of better opportunities abroad.

The senior hotelier said the hospitality industry in Sri Lanka had a tremendous potential to spur economic growth, job creation, and cultural exchange. Stressing the importance of addressing the challenges of security concerns, infrastructure limitations, sustainable practices, and skilled labour shortages, the Chairman of the Institute of Hospitality said:

“In my opinion, inadequate road networks, unreliable public transportation, and a lack of proper waste management systems can deter tourists from exploring the beauty of our country. Investment in infrastructure development is crucial to attract and accommodate more visitors, ensuring their comfort and convenience during their stay.

“Moreover, the lack of skilled human resources in the tourism sector poses a significant challenge. It is essential to invest in training programmes to enhance the skills and knowledge of those working in the industry, including tour guides, hotel staff, and service providers. By providing quality training and education via SLTDA, CHSGA and Institute of Hospitality Sri Lanka from other relevant Hotel schools (NSBM etc.), we can ensure that our visitors have a memorable experience, leading to positive reviews and recommendations, ultimately boosting tourism.

“Lack of skilled labour in Sri Lanka’s hotel industry and the concerning trend of skilled workers migrating elsewhere is a grave problem when it comes to boosting tourism objectives of the Government. This matter highlights the importance of investing in training programs and the significance of hotel schools in preparing the youth for rewarding careers in the hospitality sector.

“IH & CSHGA, NAITA, TVEC help bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical skills. Students are exposed to real-world scenarios and industry-specific challenges, enabling them to develop problem-solving abilities and adaptability. Moreover, hotel schools, IH and NAITA often collaborate with established hotels and resorts, providing students with internship opportunities that further enhance their practical skills and expose them to the inner workings of the industry.

“I am proud to announce that IH Sri Lanka has taken an active role in organising training programmes covering different sections of the Hospitality Industry. In 2022/2023 region-wise trainings were conducted for Hotel Staff and Military Personnel on Food & Beverage, Housekeeping and Front Office services”.

“Institute of Hospitality contributes to the overall professionalism and reputation of the hotel industry. Hotel Schools are producing well-trained graduates, these institutions elevate the standards of service and hospitality, attracting more tourists and improving the country’s image as a desirable destination. Skilled workers who have received quality training are more likely to provide exceptional customer experiences, leading to positive reviews and repeat visits, thus contributing to the success and sustainability of the industry.”

Dr.Jayasinghe was re-elected Chairman of IH Sri Lanka unanimously for a second term.


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A strong Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) system equips individuals with practical, relevant, and future-oriented skills helping to innovate responsibly towards a greener and sustainable future – PM

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11 hours ago

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2026/03/26

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The Prime Minister, Minister of Education, Higher Education and Vocational Education Dr. Harini Amarasuriya participated as the Chief Guest in the international conference on ’Transforming TVET Systems for climate resilience and green jobs’ organized by Colombo Plan Staff College, Philippines together with the Ministry of Education, Higher Education and Vocational Education Sri Lanka on 24 th of March at Courtyard by Marriott Colombo, Sri Lanka.

The Conference serves as the flagship event of the five-day Regional Programme on “Transforming TVET for a Digital, Green, and Inclusive Economy” (23-27 March 2026), which continues throughout the week, bringing together representatives from CPSC member countries including Bhutan, Fiji, Malaysia, Maldives, Myanmar, Nepal, Philippines, Thailand, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka, fostering high-level dialogue and knowledge sharing on climate-resilient and green skills development.

The Conference features technical and plenary sessions on climate-responsive TVET systems, green skills development, national policy frameworks, and emerging technologies shaping industry transformation.

Addressing at the event, the Prime Minister emphasized the role of Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) that equips individuals with practical, relevant, and future-oriented skills in addressing climate change and shaping a sustainable future.

The Prime Minister reaffirmed that this transformation remains a national priority for Sri Lanka. She stressed that education must go beyond knowledge dissemination to empower individuals with opportunities, dignity, and the capacity to contribute meaningfully to society.

She further emphasized the need to integrate environmental sustainability into education and training systems by embedding green skills in curricula, investing in modern training facilities, promoting innovation, and fostering collaboration between training institutions and emerging green industries.

Highlighting the importance of ensuring equity the Prime Minister further stated, that opportunities arising from the green transition must be accessible to all, including youth, young women, people with special needs, and marginalized communities.

Reaffirming Sri Lanka’s commitment to working closely with regional and international partnerships, the Prime Minister emphasized the importance of transforming them to actual benefits and partnerships.

The occasion was attended by the Secretary to the Ministry of Education, Higher Education and Vocational Education  Nalaka Kaluwewa, Additional Secretary (Vocational Training) Ms. Samanthi Senanayake Director General Colombo Plan Staff College Prof. Dr. Suresh K. Dhameja , TVET administrators, institutional leaders, policymakers, instructors, industry representatives, and international delegates from across the region and seniors officials and officials from Ministries.

(Prime Minister’s Media division)

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PM reviews progress of the committee appointed for the establishment of a National Nursing University

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11 hours ago

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2026/03/26

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A discussion to review the current progress of the special committee appointed under the government’s policy proposals to establish a National Nursing University aimed at elevating the nursing profession in Sri Lanka to degree level was held on 23rd of March at the Prime Minister’s Office under the patronage of Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya.

During the meeting, the Prime Minister inquired into the progress made by the committee in relation to the establishment of the Nursing University and paid attention to the issues and views presented by the committee members.

Emphasizing that establishing a university is a long-term and complex process, the Prime Minister pointed out the importance of advancing this project in line with higher education standards, without hasty decisions, while also taking into account the existing conflicts and challenges within the university system.

The meeting was attended by the Vice Chairman of the University Grants Commission, Professor K. L. Wasantha Kumara, representatives of the All Ceylon Nurses’ Association, and officials from the Ministry of Health and Mass Media.

(Prime Minister’s Media Division)

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Heat Index at ‘Caution level’ in the Western, Sabaragamuwa, Southern and North-western provinces and in Anuradhapura, Mannar, Vavuniya and Monaragala districts

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21 hours ago

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2026/03/26

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Warm Weather Advisory
Issued by the Natural Hazards Early Warning Centre of the Department of  Meteorology
at 3.30 p.m. on 25 March 2026, valid for 26 March 2026.

The Heat index, the temperature felt on human body is likely to increase up to ‘Caution level’ at some places in the Western, Sabaragamuwa, Southern and North-western provinces and in
Anuradhapura, Mannar, Vavuniya and Monaragala districts.

The Heat Index Forecast is calculated by using relative humidity and maximum temperature and this is the condition that is felt on your body. This is not the forecast of maximum temperature. It is generated by the Department of Meteorology for the next day period and prepared by using global numerical weather prediction model data.

Effect of the heat index on human body is mentioned in the above table and it is prepared on the advice of the Ministry of Health and Indigenous Medical Services.

ACTION REQUIRED
Job sites: Stay hydrated and takes breaks in the shade as often as possible.
Indoors: Check up on the elderly and the sick.
Vehicles: Never leave children unattended.
Outdoors: Limit strenuous outdoor activities, find shade and stay hydrated.
Dress: Wear lightweight and white or light-colored clothing.

Note:
In addition, please refer to advisories issued by the Disaster Preparedness & Response Division, Ministry
of Health in this regard as well. For further clarifications please contact 011-7446491.

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