Sri Lanka Red Cross Society (SLRCS), Kandy Branch, recently inaugurated the first computer lab and Information Technology (IT) training centre with the generous support from UK-based Dr. Suresh Lopez, an IT professional, and in partnership with the Skill Development and Training International Institute (STDI). The inauguration session was held at the Kandy District Branch office premises.

Speaking at the Inaugural Ceremony, the First Vice-President of the Sri Lanka Red Cross Society, Jagath Abeysinghe, remarked, “In challenging times, empowering the most vulnerable is imperative. The IT Training Centre stands as a testament to our dedication to uplift marginalised youth and children, arming them with essential skills for a brighter future. Our gratitude extends to Dr. Suresh Lopez and STDI for their vital role in bringing this impactful project to life.”

The SLRCS’s IT Training Centre/Computer Lab project, conceived to counter the effects of the economic crisis, offers complimentary IT training to the marginalised youth from low-income families across urban, rural, and plantation sectors of the Kandy district.

The primary mission of the centre is to provide education in computer and digital literacy, offering a wide array of courses that span across various sectors of IT. These sectors include Office Applications, Networking, Graphic Design, Audio and Video Editing, Software Engineering, Programming, Data Analytics, Data Science, Cloud Computing, Artificial Intelligence, Computer/Cyber Security, Digital Marketing, Social Media, eCommerce, Web Technologies, etc. The comprehensive curriculum at the centre is meticulously designed to equip students with the skills necessary to meet the demands of the evolving IT job market. It will further be focusing on practical, industry-relevant training, aiming to prepare our students for rewarding careers in their chosen IT disciplines, ensuring they are well-positioned to secure competitive employment and achieve successful professional growth.

The Committee of the Sri Lanka Red Cross Society’s Kandy Branch shared, “This initiative transcends immediate challenges, setting a foundation for long-term development. By offering free IT education, we aim to bridge the digital divide and unlock new opportunities for these deserving individuals’’. Their enthusiasm towards the project reflects a commitment to sustainable development and community empowerment.