Validation Workshop on National Human Resources Development (NHRD) Policy for a Sustainable Future conducted by NHRDC
In alignment with the directives from the Sectoral Oversight Committee on an Open and Accountable Government of the Parliament of Sri Lanka, the National Human Resources Development Council (NHRDC) successfully organized a validation workshop on 15th August 2024. This workshop marked a significant step towards expediting the development of the National Human Resources Development (NHRD) Policy, aimed at ensuring a sustainable future for the nation. The workshop, held at Sankathani Hall, Sri Lanka Institute of Development Administration (SLIDA), brought together key stakeholders, experts, and sectoral representatives to validate the draft NHRD Policy. This draft policy has been meticulously developed by the NHRDC through a series of preliminary studies and stakeholder consultations. Mr. Thusitha Wanigasinghe, Chairman of NHRDC, chaired the event, which was attended by approximately 80 participants from various sectors. The gathering provided a valuable platform for presenting the draft policy and gathering contributions to enhance its effectiveness. Dr. Chandra Embuldeniya, Team Lead for the policy preparation, presented the draft NHRD Policy to the participants. During the workshop, it was agreed to establish committees for each policy pillar as the next phase of this initiative, ensuring the policy's continuous improvement and relevance. Governing Council Members who attended the workshop included: Mr. W.W.P. Yasaratne, Secretary, Ministry of Public Administration, Home Affairs, Provincial Councils & Local Government Mrs. Thilaka Jayasinghe, Secretary, Ministry of Education Mr. Shantha Weerasinghe, Secretary, Ministry of Industries Dr. Dharmasri Kumaratunga, Secretary, Ministry of Technology Mr. Kanapathipillai Mahesan, Secretary, Ministry of Sports & Youth Prof. Sampath Amaratunge, Chairman, University Grants Commission Mrs. Padmini Ranawaka, Chairperson, National Education Commission Dr. K.A. Lalithadheera, Director General, Tertiary and Vocational Education Commission Ms. H.L.J.K Amarasekara, Deputy Director, Department of National Budget, Ministry of Finance The event also saw the participation of Mr. Nihal Ranasinghe, Ministry of Justice (former Secretary to the Ministry of Education), and Mr. K.A. Thilakarathna, Consultant for the Sectoral Oversight Committee on an Open and Accountable Government of the Parliament of Sri Lanka, who provided valuable insights during the discussions. The workshop was a crucial milestone in the journey towards the finalization and implementation of the NHRD Policy, setting the stage for a more sustainable and well-planned future for Sri Lanka.
NHRDC and Chemonics International Hold discussion to Strengthen Public Sector Training
The National Human Resource Development Council (NHRDC) held a productive discussion with Chemonics International, one of USAID’s largest implementing partners, on 15th January 2025. The meeting took place at the NHRDC boardroom and centered on strategies to improve public sector employment training, with a particular focus on non-staff employees.
Recognizing the challenges of training diverse employment levels across Central and Provincial Governments, the discussion highlighted the need for a systematic mechanism to ensure comprehensive training for all public sector entrants.
The session was chaired by Mr. Thusitha P. Wanigasinghe, Chairman of NHRDC, who provided an overview of public sector employment and its unique training needs. Mrs. Anusha B. Gamage, Additional Director General of SLIDA, presented on the introduction of a Credit-Based Qualification System (CBQS) for staff-grade officers in the public service.
Key participants included Mr. Todd Diamond and Mrs. Kavitha Kaur, South Asia Regional Representatives from Chemonics International, alongside NHRDC’s Legal Officer and two Research Officers.
This collaboration marks a significant step towards modernizing public sector training and enhancing workforce competency to meet evolving governance challenges.
The National Human Resources Development Council of Sri Lanka is an institution established to perform an important role of work under the Ministry of Public Administration, Provincial Councils and Local Government.
It takes responsibilities for work such as assisting to implement the policies pertaining to Human Resources Development and by giving priority in all the activities of Human Resources Development under the powers vested upon the said institute.