A comprehensive program has been launched to make the IT sector a major foreign exchange earning industry in Sri Lanka, State Minister of Technology Kanaka Herath said.
He made this statement while participating in an observation visit on Sunday (18) to assess the quality of studies in the LIGHTING DIGITAL information technology training bootcamp, which commenced at Avissawella Batangala Youth Training Center.
The bootcamp was organized by the Communication Technology Agency of Sri Lanka with the participation of about 180 youth from Kegalle district.
Further speaking the Minister stated that it has been possible to earn 1500 million US dollars in foreign exchange through the IT industry in 2021.
He pointed out the significant contribution made by approximately 50,000 IT employees working in the IT field for the country’s ability to earn foreign currency.
He also added that 34,000 youths will be directed to the field in 2023 through the implementation of LIGHTING DIGITAL IT training bootcamps at the district level.
Key points from State Minister of Technology Kanaka Herath’s media briefing
- Approximately 20,000 IT job openings currently available in the public and private sectors
- In order to mobilize the youth required for this industry, Information Technology will be introduced as an A-level subject in the Arts stream
- For this, with the assistance of UNICEF, following steps have been taken:
- 700 teachers to be trained to teach Information Technology
- NVQ syllabuses to be revised as required by the job market throughout tertiary education
- The development of an overall digital education policy to be commenced
