During the discussion on the survey "Labour Market Trends in Sri Lanka," held on Monday (25 March) from 12:00 pm to 1:00 pm in the Board room of NHRDC, several topics were addressed. The discussion was conducted with Dr. Mohan Devdas, Chairman of NHRDC, and the Research Team of NHRDC.

Key points discussed included the structure of the questionnaire and proposal, sample selection techniques, budget preparation, and procedures for selecting enumerators from outside for the survey.

The first governing council meeting of the year 2024 convened on January 18th, led by Mr. Thusitha P. Wanigasinghe, Chairman of the National Human Resources Development Council (NHRDC).

Chaired by Mr. Wanigasinghe, the esteemed attendees included:

Mr. W.P.P. Yasaratne: Secretary, Ministry of Public Administration, Home Affairs, Provincial Councils & Local Government

Mrs. Wasantha Perera: Secretary, Ministry of Education

Dr. P.G. Maheepala: Secretary, Ministry of Health

Mr. R.P.A. Wimalaweera: Secretary, Ministry of Labour and Foreign Employment

Dr. Dharmasri Kumaratunge: Secretary, Ministry of Technology

Mr. Kanapathipillai Mahesan: Secretary, Ministry of Sports and Youth

Mr. Ruchika Amarasekara: Chairman, National Apprentice and Industrial Training Authority (NAITA)

Prof. Hilary Elmo de Silva: Professor in Accounting, University of Sri Jayawardenapura

Ms. Muditha Samadhani Kiriwandeniya: Managing Director, SANASA International Pvt. Ltd

Mr. M.C.V. Rajanathan: Retired Senior Banker and Senior Lecturer at CBSL and IBSL

Ms. H.L.J.K. Amarasekara: Deputy Director, Department of National Budget (Representative of the Secretary, Ministry of Finance)

Additionally, Dr. Chandra Embuldeniya participated as an observer, adding valuable insights on the NHRD plan.

As the year unfolds, the NHRDC and its governing council remain dedicated to fostering sustainable development and human resource advancement, with this inaugural meeting setting the tone for collaborative and impactful efforts throughout 2024.

The meeting on the NHR&E policy Review was held on 26^th September 2023, at the Additional Secretary/PPRD Room, 3^rd Floor, Ministry of Education (MOE). The prime objective of this meeting is to review existing policies in NHR&E policy with special reference to the School Education in Sri Lanka.

During the meeting, Mr. Thusitha P. Wanigasingha, Chairman NHRDC, elaborated on the relevant policies in the NHR&E policy document in order to get the views of attendees.

The following attendees from MOE were present at the meeting.

Mrs. B. Maheshi Weerasuriya, Additional Secretary (Policy, Planning and Performance Review); Dr. K.P. Munagama, Additional Secretary (Digital Education); Mr. H.A.H.K.N Hettiarachchi, Director of Education (Non-Formal and Special Education); Mrs. P.W. Amaradiwakara, Director of Education (School Activities); Mrs. P.D. Iroshini Paranagama, Director of Education (Bilingual); Mrs. C.M.P.J. Thillkaratne, Director of Education (National Languages and Humanities); Mrs. M.B.M.B.K Gawarammana, Deputy Director of Education (Policy and Planning); Mrs. W.A.N.L. Perera, Deputy Director of Education (National Languages and Humanities); Mrs. Nimali Jayakody, Deputy Director of Education (English and Foreign Languages ); Mrs. G. K. Kanakaratne, Deputy Director of Education; Mrs. N.S. Kannangara, Assistant Director of Education ( Career Guidance); Mrs. M.K.A.U. Ananda, Assistant Director of Education.

The National Human Resources Development Council of Sri Lanka convened a pivotal meeting on August 22, 2023, at 10:00 AM at the NHRDC Boardroom with the higher officials of the Skills Development and Vocational Training Sector of the Ministry of Education to deliberate on the formulation of the National Human Resource and Employment Policy (NHRE Policy).

The meeting marked the inception of a collaborative effort between the NHRDC and the Skills Development and Vocational Training Sector of the Ministry of Education to review the NHR&E Policy into a progressive Policy.

The meeting was attended by Mr. Thusitha P. Wanigasingha, Chairman, NHRDC, Mrs. Muditha Malkanthi, Additional Secretary (Vocational Training), Mrs. Himali Athaudage, Additional Secretary (Skills Sector Development), Mr. S.I.M Rosa, Director (Career Guidance), Mr. K.A.K Palugaswewa, Director (Skills Development), Mr. Dasitha Niroshana, Director (Skills Development) and the NHRDC officers.

NHRE Policy Review with the TVET Sector

In a significant step towards reviewing the National Human Resource and Employment Policy (NHRE Policy), the NHRDC initiated a discussion series with the responsible authorities. The first discussion was held on 07th August 2023, with the participation of  TVET sector officials. The discussion was chaired by  Mr. Thusitha P. Wanigasingha (Chairman - NHRDC) with the officials, Dr. K.A Lalithadheera (Director General -TVEC), Dr. Janaka Jayalath (Deputy Director General -TVEC), Mr. T. Senthuran, Director (Planning and Research)  and the NHRDC officers. The ambitious initiative aims to identify gaps and the existing situation of the TVET sector as per the NHRE Policy.

In a proactive move, the National Human Resource Development Council (NHRDC) has undertaken significant steps to evaluate and improve the implementation of the 2012 NHR & Employment policy. Following a successful Advisory Committee meeting to formulate the NHRD policy, the council is now determined to identify any gaps hindering the effective execution of the policy.

To achieve this objective, the NHRDC has conducted a thorough analysis of various sectoral policies, encompassing general education, higher education, and vocational and skills education. By scrutinizing these areas, the council aims to gain valuable insights into the policy's real-world impact.

Furthermore, special attention has been devoted to technological education and initiatives related to the 13-year education program. Understanding the significance of these aspects is essential to ensure comprehensive and well-rounded policy evaluation.

To strengthen the assessment process, the NHRDC has planned to engage in discussions with key stakeholders, including the Ministry of Education and the authorities responsible for vocational education and skills development under the ministry's purview. By collaborating with these experts, the council aims to gain a deeper understanding of the challenges faced during policy implementation.

The meeting on the Formulation of the National Human Resources Development Policy was held on 13^th July 2023, at the Boardroom of the Tertiary and Vocational Education Commission. The National Human Resources Development Council (NHRDC) convened the advisory committee of the NHRD Policy Formulation to discuss the initial document compiled by Dr. Chandra Embuldeniya, the team leader of this task.

During the meeting, Dr. Chandra Embuldeniya, as the Team Leader for the NHRD Policy formulation, elaborated on the initial document presented to which many of the attendees added valuable insights.  

The following attendees were present at the meeting.

Thusitha P. Wanigasingha, Chairman NHRDC; Dr. Chandra Embuldeniya, Team leader for the NHRD Policy preparation, Founder and the Former Vice Chancellor of Uva Wellassa University; Ms. Sajeewani Athapaththu, Additional Secretary-HRD, Ministry of Public Administration, Home Affairs, Provincial Councils and Local Government; Mr. Upali Tennakoon, Secretary, Sri Lanka Finance Commission; Mr. Nalaka Kaluwewe, Director General, SLIDA; Dr. K. A. Lalithadeera, Director General, Tertiary and Vocational Education Commission; Ms. Chamindry Saparamadu, Director General, Sustainable Development Council of Sri Lanka; Mr. M.M Naufar, Additional Director General, Dept. of Public Finance; Mr. Daniel Dissanayake, Assistant Director General, The Employers’ Federation of Ceylon; Ms. Jayani Tilakarathna, Director, National Languages and Humanities Education Unit, Ministry of Education; Mr. Sudheera Jayarathna, Director, Small Enterprises Development Division Mrs. M. G Saseeka Panditharathna, Director of Education (HRD), Ministry of Education; Ms. B. H. C Shiromali Director, Department of Manpower and Employment; Mr. Erandika Dissanayaka, National Project Coordinator, International Labour Organization Senior Lecturer, Dept. of Human Resource Management, University of Kelaniya; Dr. Chandana Wijenama, Organization and HR Director, Siam City Cement; Mr. Shiran Fernando, Chief Economist, Ceylon Chamber of Commerce; Ms. Whitney Fraser, Assistant Sec. Gen. HR and Admin, Ceylon Chamber of Commerce.           

In an important meeting held on 26^th June 2023, at the Temple Trees, the National Human Resources Development Council (NHRDC) convened to present the Human Resources Development (HRD) Plan for the Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC) region to the Honorable Prime Minister, Dinesh Gunawardena. At the gathering, Dr. Chandra Embuldeniya, the appointed Team Leader for developing the HRD plan, delivered a comprehensive presentation outlining the strategic vision for advancing human capital development in the BIMSTEC member countries.

Under the purview of the Ministry of Public Administration, Home Affairs, Provincial Councils, and Local Government, the NHRDC has been entrusted with spearheading human resources development efforts in Sri Lanka. Chaired by Mr. Thusitha P. Wanigasinghe, the Council's Chairman, the meeting boasted the presence of prominent officials from various government ministries, educational institutions, and key commissions.

Among the notable attendees were Mr. Ranjith Ashoka, Secretary of the Ministry of Public Administration, Home Affairs, Provincial Councils, and Local Government; Mr. Nihal Ranasinghe, Secretary of the Ministry of Education and Higher Education; Prof. Neranjan Gunawardena, Secretary of the Ministry of Technology; Mr. Kanapathipillai Mahesan, Secretary of the Ministry of Sports & Youth; Ms. Sajeewanie Athapaththu, Additional Secretary,  Ministry of Public Administration, Home Affairs, Provincial Councils and Local Government;  Prof. Sampath Amaratunge, Chairman of the University Grants Commission; Mr. B.K.U.A. Wickramasinghe, Chairman of the Tertiary & Vocational Education Commission; Mr. Ruchika Amarasekara, Chairman of the National Apprenticeship and Industrial Training Authority; Prof. Harischandra Abeygunawardena, Chairman of the National Education Commission; Prof. Jayantha Lal Ratnasekara, Vice-Chancellor, Uva-Wellassa University; Prof. W. Hilary Elmo Silva, Senior Professor in Accounting; University of Sri Jayawardenapura, Mr. Nalaka Kaluwewa, Director General, SLIDA; Dr. K.A. Lalithadheera, Director General, Tertiary & Vocational Education Commission; Mr. K.G.H.H. Kiriella, Director General, Department of Manpower and Employment; Mrs. Muditha Samadhani Kiriwandeniya, Chairperson of SANASA Campus; and Mr. M.C.V. Rajanathan, a senior retired banker among others.

During the meeting, Dr. Chandra Embuldeniya, as the Team Leader for the HRD plan's development, provided a comprehensive overview of the strategic initiatives to foster human resources growth within the BIMSTEC region. The BIMSTEC member countries comprise Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Myanmar, Nepal, and Thailand. The HRD plan encompasses various sectors, including education and vocational training, to enhance the region's workforce's skills, capabilities, and employability.

The Council's presentation was well-received by the Honorable Prime Minister, who commended the collective efforts and emphasised the significance of collaborative initiatives in human resources development. Acknowledging the pivotal role of a skilled and empowered workforce in driving economic growth and regional cooperation, the Hon. Prime Minister expressed his support for the HRD plan and highlighted the importance of swift implementation to maximise its impact.

The NHRDC's meeting with the Prime Minister exemplifies the government's commitment to strengthening human resources development both domestically and regionally. By actively engaging with key stakeholders and presenting comprehensive plans, Sri Lanka aims to contribute to advancing the BIMSTEC region and fostering more excellent socio-economic progress.

The NHRDC will work closely with relevant ministries, educational institutions, and commissions to operationalise the HRD plan and drive transformative change in the BIMSTEC region.

In an important meeting held on 26^th June 2023, at the Temple Trees, the National Human Resources Development Council (NHRDC) convened to present the Human Resources Development (HRD) Plan for the Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC) region to the Honorable Prime Minister, Dinesh Gunawardena. At the gathering, Dr. Chandra Embuldeniya, the appointed Team Leader for developing the HRD plan, delivered a comprehensive presentation outlining the strategic vision for advancing human capital development in the BIMSTEC member countries.

Under the purview of the Ministry of Public Administration, Home Affairs, Provincial Councils, and Local Government, the NHRDC has been entrusted with spearheading human resources development efforts in Sri Lanka. Chaired by Mr. Thusitha P. Wanigasinghe, the Council's Chairman, the meeting boasted the presence of prominent officials from various government ministries, educational institutions, and key commissions.

Among the notable attendees were Mr. Ranjith Ashoka, Secretary of the Ministry of Public Administration, Home Affairs, Provincial Councils, and Local Government; Mr. Nihal Ranasinghe, Secretary of the Ministry of Education and Higher Education; Prof. Neranjan Gunawardena, Secretary of the Ministry of Technology; Mr. Kanapathipillai Mahesan, Secretary of the Ministry of Sports & Youth; Ms. Sajeewanie Athapaththu, Additional Secretary,  Ministry of Public Administration, Home Affairs, Provincial Councils and Local Government;  Prof. Sampath Amaratunge, Chairman of the University Grants Commission; Mr. B.K.U.A. Wickramasinghe, Chairman of the Tertiary & Vocational Education Commission; Mr. Ruchika Amarasekara, Chairman of the National Apprenticeship and Industrial Training Authority; Prof. Harischandra Abeygunawardena, Chairman of the National Education Commission; Prof. Jayantha Lal Ratnasekara, Vice-Chancellor, Uva-Wellassa University; Prof. W. Hilary Elmo Silva, Senior Professor in Accounting; University of Sri Jayawardenapura, Mr. Nalaka Kaluwewa, Director General, SLIDA; Dr. K.A. Lalithadheera, Director General, Tertiary & Vocational Education Commission; Mr. K.G.H.H. Kiriella, Director General, Department of Manpower and Employment; Mrs. Muditha Samadhani Kiriwandeniya, Chairperson of SANASA Campus; and Mr. M.C.V. Rajanathan, a senior retired banker among others.

During the meeting, Dr. Chandra Embuldeniya, as the Team Leader for the HRD plan's development, provided a comprehensive overview of the strategic initiatives to foster human resources growth within the BIMSTEC region. The BIMSTEC member countries comprise Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Myanmar, Nepal, and Thailand. The HRD plan encompasses various sectors, including education and vocational training, to enhance the region's workforce's skills, capabilities, and employability.

The Council's presentation was well-received by the Honorable Prime Minister, who commended the collective efforts and emphasised the significance of collaborative initiatives in human resources development. Acknowledging the pivotal role of a skilled and empowered workforce in driving economic growth and regional cooperation, the Hon. Prime Minister expressed his support for the HRD plan and highlighted the importance of swift implementation to maximise its impact.

The NHRDC's meeting with the Prime Minister exemplifies the government's commitment to strengthening human resources development both domestically and regionally. By actively engaging with key stakeholders and presenting comprehensive plans, Sri Lanka aims to contribute to advancing the BIMSTEC region and fostering more excellent socio-economic progress.

The NHRDC will work closely with relevant ministries, educational institutions, and commissions to operationalise the HRD plan and drive transformative change in the BIMSTEC region.

The need for a Digital Public Sector Human Resource Information System is strongly felt when taking decisions related to HR in the public sector. Therefore, as the detailed cadre details and employee information in the Public sector are not available at a single agency, the NHRDC initiated the task of developing a human resources information system for the entire public sector. The first sub-committee meeting was held on 2nd of March 2023 at 2.30 PM in the Boardroom of the University Grants Commission, The following officials participated in the initial meeting.

1. Mr. Thusitha P. Wanigasinghe – Chairman, NHRDC
2. Senior Professor Sampath Amaratunge - Chairman, UGC
3. Mr. Ruchiaka Amarasekara - Chairman, NAITA
4. Mr. Anuradha Wijekoon - Additional Secretary, Ministry of Pub Ad.
5. Mrs. R. Wijayalechchumi - Additional Secretary, Ministry of Pub Ad.
6. Mr. Chaminda Pathiraja - Additional Secretary, Ministry of Industries
7. Mr. Saman Waduge - Additional Secretary. Ministry of Youth
8. Mr. R.K. Jayalath – Director, Department of Management Services, The Ministry of Finance, Economic Stabilization and National Policies
9. Prof. Hilary Elmo E. Silva - Professor in Accounting, University of Sri Jayewardenepura, Council Member of NHRDC
10. Mrs. Anusha Gokula - Director General, Department of Manpower and Employment, Ministry of Labour and Foreign Employment
11. Ms. P.W. Pramuksha Hiruni Vithanage - Director Information Technology, Ministry of Agriculture
12. Mr. Gavashkar Subramanium - Director (Digital Government), ICTA, Ministry of Technology
13. Ms. U.V. Jayakody - Director, Department of Census and Statistics
14. Dr. G. S. P. Ranasinghe – Head of HR, Ministry of Health
15. Mrs. J. A. C. P. Jayasinghe – Director (Cover-up), NHRDC
16. Mr. D. Senthilnathan – Research Officer, NHRDC
17. Ms. Uda Weerasena - Research Officer, NHRDC
18. Mr. Sandeepa Rajapaksha - Research Officer, NHRDC
19. Ms. N. D. Edirisinghe - Research Officer, NHRDC

The final committee meeting on developing the Human Resources Development Index (HRDI) was conducted on the 28th of February 2023 at 2 pm in the NHRDC Board Room. The meeting objective of the final meeting is to finalize the developed draft HRDI report with the comments of the committee members.

Following members were participated in this meeting;

• Mr. Thusitha P. Wanigasinghe, Chairman, NHRDC
• Prof. Gamini De Alwis, Former Senior Lecturer, University of Colombo – (Committee Chairperson)
• Mrs. U.V. Jayakody, Director, Department of Census and Statistics– (Committee Member)
• Mr. G.A.M.U. Ganepola, Director (IS), TVEC – (Committee Member)
• Mrs. Jayani Thilakaratne, Director (HRD), Ministry of Education– (Committee Member)
• Mrs. J.A.C.P. Jayasinghe, Director (Covering-up), NHRDC– (Committee Member)
• Mr. R.D.C.S. Rajapaksha, Research officer, NHRDC
• Mr. D. Senthilnadan, Research officer, NHRDC
• Miss. Navoda Edirisinghe, Research officer, NHRDC
• Miss. Uda Weerasena, Research officer, NHRDC

Mr. Thusitha P. Wanigasinghe, Chairman, NHRDC initiated the meeting by welcoming the committee members. After that, Prof. Gamini De Alwis, was chaired the meeting. Prof. Premakumara De Silva, Member of the Commission, UGC, Dr. Mrs. Iranga S. Yaddehige, Head (HRM and Coordination unit)(Covering-up), Ministry of Health, Mr. W.G. Prabath, Additional Director(HR Development), Central Bank of Sri Lanka, and Mr. Ravindu Sachintha, Assistant Manager (Professional & Academic) on behalf of Mr. G. Weeratunge, Director - Professional & Academic Affairs, CIPM,   joined the meeting via Zoom.

NHRDC met with the Secretary to the Ministry of Industries and the Chairman of NAITA on 31^st January. This engagement was a part of a series of meetings conducted with regard to the National Human Resource Development Database as the employment data and cadre details are crucial for the government to take policy decisions.  In the first phase of this venture NHRDC in collaboration with the Ministry of Public Administration, Home Affairs, Provincial Councils, and Local Government, is collecting the organizational cadre details in the public sector employment. The second phase, is to collect the individual data of each and every employee in the public sector. Accordingly, it was proposed to get the support of the Ministry of Labour and the other stakeholders for the development of this database. Therefore, the next meeting will be conducted with the higher officials of the Ministry of Labour and the relevant stakeholders.

Mrs. Thilaka Jayasundara, Secretary to the Ministry of Industries, Mr. Thusitha P. Wanigasinghe, Chairman of NHRDC, Mr. Ruchika Amarasekara, Chairman of NAITA, and  senior officials from NHRDC participated in this discussion.
 

NHRDC collaboratively developed a course module to build the capabilities of the entrepreneurs who are engaged in the solid waste management sector to find a long-term solution for the Solid waste problem and make novel entrepreneurs in this sector. The main objective of this program is to facilitate a certificate course in solid waste management in order to produce entrepreneurs with sound management skills together with competent skills in technical know-how in solid waste management. As a ship Pilot program, this course was launched by NHRDC on 20^th October 2019 at the Entrepreneur Development Department of the University of Sri Jayewardenepura.

The certificates awarding ceremony for those who successfully completed the course was held at the Department of Entrepreneurship, Faculty of Management Studies and Commerce, University of Sri Jayewadenepura on 28.01.2023. On behalf of NHRDC, Mrs. J.A.C.P. Jayasinghe, Director (C.U), and Mr. D.Senthilnathan, Research Officer participated as guests at this occasion.

Discussion to Streamline the NHRDC Activities.

The NHRDC conducted a discussion on 25th January 2023 at the NHRDC Boardroom under the objective to streamline NHRDC activities with the participation of:

· Mr. Thusitha P. Wanigasinghe – Chairman, NHRDC

· Dr. K. A. Lalithadheera - Director General, TVEC

· Dr. Samantha Rathnayake - Senior Management Consultant/Faculty Member, Postgraduate Institute of Management

P. A. G. Fernando - Director, General, Department of Manpower and Employment
V. H. C. Shiromali - Director (HRM and IR), Department of Manpower and Employment
NHRDC Staff

NHRDC held the first Rakiya Aruna Career Fair and Career Motivation Programme for the year 2022 on 30 th of June 2022 at Negombo Municipal Council Hall. With the participation of more than hundreds of youth and 10 private sector companies (Dialog, Richard Pieris Pvt Ltd, Keells Distribution Centre, Cargills, Agro Venture, GVP Pvt Ltd, SPAR SL Pvt Ltd, Softlogic Life Pvt Ltd and five Vocational training Institutes (TVEC, SLITHM, VTA, Youth Corps, Nenasela Training Centre, Don Bosco Training Centre) the program was successfully concluded. The Divisional Secretary of Negombo Divisional Secretariat graced the occasion as the Chief Guest.  Secretary and Commissioner of the Negombo Municipal Council, and representatives of the Department of Manpower were also present at the occasion.

A training session was conducted for the staff of NHRDC on the topic "Attitude Change" on 2^nd June 2022. Dr. Sunil Jayantha Nawarathne was the resource person for the program. 

The third committee meeting on developing the Human Resources Development Index (HRDI) was conducted on 5^th of May 2022 at 2 pm at the NHRDC Board Room. The meeting objective of 3^rd meeting is to identify HRD data points and relevant data sources in order to collect data for the study.

Following members were participated in this meeting;

• Prof. Gamini De Alwis, Former Senior Lecturer, University of Colombo – (Committee Chairperson)
• Prof. Premakumara De Silva, Member of the Commission, UGC– (Committee Member)
• Dr. Mrs. Iranga S. Yaddehige, Head (HRM and Coordination unit)(Covering-up), Ministry of Health– (Committee Member)
• Mr. W.G. Prabath, Additional Director(HR Development), Central Bank of Sri Lanka– (Committee Member)
• Mr. S.P.N.P.N. Abeysekara, Deputy Director, Department of National Planning on behalf of Mr. E.A. Rathnaseela, Addl. Director General , Department of National Planning,– (Committee Member)
• Mrs. A.A.U.S. Adikari, Senior Assistant Secretary (HRD), Ministry of Public Administration, Home Affairs, Provincial Councils and Local Government on behalf of Mr. K.R. Uduwawela, Addl. Secretary(HRD), Ministry of Public Administration, Home Affairs, Provincial Councils and Local Government– (Committee Member)
• Mr. G. Weeratunge, Director - Professional & Academic Affairs, CIPM – (Committee Member)
• Mrs. J.A.C.P. Jayasinghe, Director (Covering-up), NHRDC– (Committee Member)
• Mr. R.D.C.S. Rajapaksha, Research officer, NHRDC
• Mr. D. Senthilnadan, Research officer, NHRDC
• Miss. Navoda Edirisinghe, Research officer, NHRDC
• Miss. Uda Weerasena, Research officer, NHRDC

Prof. Gamini De Alwis, was chaired the meeting. Mr. R. C. De. Zoysa, Chief Secretary, Southern Provincial Council joined the meeting via Zoom.

The second committee meeting on developing the Human Resources Development Index (HRDI) was conducted on 8^th April 2022 at 2 pm at the NHRDC Board Room. The meeting objective of 2^nd meeting is to finalize the study scope, TOR and to discuss the way forward for conducting this study.

Following members were participated in this meeting;

• Prof. Gamini De Alwis, Former Senior Lecturer, University of Colombo – (Committee Chairperson)
• Dr. Iranga S. Yaddehige, Head (HRM and Coordination unit)(Covering-up), Ministry of Health– (Committee Member)
• Mr. S.P.N.P.N. Abeysekara, Deputy Director, Department of National Planning on behalf of Mr. E.A. Rathnaseela, Addl. Director General , Department of National Planning,– (Committee Member)
• Mr. W.K.B.A.S. Parakkrama, Assistant Secretary, Ministry of Home Affairs- (Committee Member)
• Mrs. U.V. Jayakody, Director, Department of Census and Statistics– (Committee Member)
• Mr. G.A.M.U. Ganepola, Director (IS), TVEC on behalf of Dr. Janaka Jayalath, Deputy Director General, TVEC– (Committee Member)
• Mrs. J.A.C.P. Jayasinghe, Director (Covering-up), NHRDC– (Committee Member)
• Mr. D. Senthilnadan, Research officer, NHRDC
• Mr. R.D.C.S. Rajapaksha, Research officer, NHRDC
• Miss. Uda Weerasena, Research officer, NHRDC

Prof. Gamini De Alwis, was chaired the meeting. Mr. Fazil, Assistant Director (HR), Ministry of Education on behalf of Dr.(Mrs.) Madura M. Wehella, Addl. Secretary  (Policy, Planning and Performance Review), Ministry of Education joined the meeting via Zoom.

National Human Resources Development Council of Sri Lanka (NHRDC) organized a meeting with Export Development Board (EDB), Industrial Development Board (IDB), National Enterprise Development Authority (NEDA), and Tertiary and Vocational Education Commission (TVEC) held on the 4^th April 2022 from 2.00 PM – 3.45 PM at the Board Room, NHRDC. The objective of this meeting was to identify the human resources and skills issues faced by the particular sector. This discussion also focused on the skills passport, which is a comprehensive portfolio of skills and qualifications of a worker and the available occupations and an online career test that has been published on the TVEC website

Mr. S.R.P. Indrakeerthi, Additional Director General (Finance and Admin) – EDB, Dr. Janaka Jayalath, Deputy Director-General, TVEC, Mr. Mohan Gunasinghe, Director (Technical Services), IDB, Mrs. Kumuduni, Director,  EDB, Mr. Dhanuka Liyanagamage, Director, NEDA, Mr. Upul Akmeemana, Acting Director (HRM), EDB and Mr. Nalin Chinthaka, Head of Admin, NEDA have participated for the meeting. Mrs. J.A.C.P.Jayasinghe, Director (cover-up), NHRDC chaired the meeting. Mrs. G.G.Kasuni Uthpala (Legal Officer cum Council Secretary), Mr. D. Senthilnadan (Research Officer), Ms. Navoda Edirisinghe (Research Officer), and Ms. Uda Weerasena (Research Officer) participated in the meeting from NHRDC.

The NHRDC organized a discussion with the Tourism Sector on 30^th March 2022 at the TVEC Boardroom. This discussion was aimed at identifying the current labour demand, labour supply and the skills requirements of the tourism sector. The discussion also focused on the existing situation of the tourism sector, National Guide Course delivered by NAITA, and the existing gap among the courses delivered by universities.  

The following officials were present at the meeting: Mr. Jayathunga, Deputy Director General (Acting)   (Academic) at Sri Lanka Institute of Tourism and Hotel Management (SLITHM), Mr. M.U. Liyanarachchi, Director (HR), Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority (SLTDA), Ms. Poornima Kumarasinghe, Asst. Director (HR), Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority (SLTDA), Mr. H P Priyadarshana, Asst. Director, Ministry of Tourism Development, Mr. Manjula Vidanapathirana Actig. Director, Tertiary Vocational Education Commission (TVEC), Ms. Lakshika Karunaratne, Manager (HRM), Airport Aviation Services (SL) Pvt Ltd, Mr. Rohan Abeywickrema, President of the Association of Small and Medium Enterprises in Tourism Sri Lanka (ASMET), Mr Nilan Wickramasinghe, Sri Lankan Institute Tourist Organization (SLITO), Mr Romesh Samaranayake, Travel Agent Association of Sri Lanka (TAASL), Mr. Imran Hassan, President of Sri Lanka Association of Professional Conference, Exhibition & Event Organisers (SLAPCEO), Mr. Sumith Bandula, Senior Lecturer,  Department of Economic, University of Colombo, Mr. Sampath Siriwardana, Senior Lecturer, CINEC Campus, together with the NHRDC Staff:  Mrs. J.A.C.P.Jayasinghe, Director-Cover up, Mr. D.Senthilnathan, Research Officer, Ms. Navoda Edirisinghe, Research Officer, Mr. Sandeepa Rajapaksha, Research Officer, Ms. Uda Weerasena, Research Officer. Mr. Chinthaka S. Lokuhetti, Chairman, National Human Resources Development Council of Sri Lanka chaired the meeting.

The NHRDC organized a discussion with the Construction Sector companies on 29^th March 2022 at the TVEC Boardroom. This discussion was aimed at identifying the current labour demand, labour supply and the skills requirements of the construction sector. The discussion also focused on the future job demand and the issue of skills mismatch in the Construction Sector and the trend of flowing foreign labour into Sri Lanka.

The following officials were present at the meeting: Mr. Nalindu Sarukkalige, HR Manager at Tudawe Brothers (Pvt) Ltd, Mrs. J.A.N.N.K Jayakody, Director at Construction Industry Development Authority (CIDA), Miss.  Poornima Karunarathna from Frigi Engineering Services Private Limited, Mr. Chandra Kumara Karunatilaka, Group Manager Finance & Manager Administration at Sierra Construction Ltd, Mr. Lal Thennakoon, Senior Assistant Secretary at Chamber of Construction Industry Sri Lanka (CCI), Mr. Manjula Herath, Head of Human Resources & Administration at International Construction Consortium (Pvt)Ltd, Eng. L. C. K. Karunaratne, Deputy General Manager (TRD) and Mr. L. P. Jayasundara, Deputy General Manager (HR & A) at Central Engineering Consultancy Bureau (CECB), Mr. Dinushan Thennakoon, Manager HR at MAGA Engineering (Pvt) Ltd, Mrs. R. W. N. Wijerathna, Deputy Manager (Human Resources) at Sanken Construction (Pvt) Ltd, Mr. Manjula Vidhanapathirana, Act. Director ( Industrial Liaison) at TVEC, Mr. Erandika Dissanayake, National Project Coordinator at ILO together with the NHRDC team. Mr. Chinthaka S. Lokuhetti, Chairman, National Human Resources Development Council of Sri Lanka chaired the meeting.

The NHRDC organized a discussion with the renowned IT companies in Sri Lanka. The discussion was held on 29^th March 2022 10.00 am at the Auditorium of The Tertiary and Vocational Education Commission. This discussion was aimed at identifying the current labour demand, labour supply and the skills requirements of the IT sector. The discussion also focused on the future job demand and the issue of skills mismatch in the IT Sector. The representatives raised prevailing HRD issues that need immediate action. The discussion was successfully concluded with the agreement of meeting quarterly.

The following officials were present at the meeting: Ms. Ayin Shah Jahan, Vice President (HR) at Millennium IT ESP, Mr. Shanka Fernando, Director at SLASSCOM, Mr. Dumidu Dassanayake , Senior Manager (Compensation and Benefits) at Dialog Axiata PLC, Mr. Kusalitha Devruwan , Senior Manager Business Partnering and Employee Wellbeing/IR at Dialog Axiata PLC,  Ms. Maryam Cader, Director (HR & Administration) at WSO2, Ms. Binuri Dharmasena, HR Executive at Arimac Lanka, Ms. Thilanka Jayathilake, Director (Human Resources) at IFS, Ms. Rikaza Faiz Head of HR Operations and Resourcing at Mobitel, Mr. Kanchana Jayaweera,  Head of IS Strategy and Customer Operations at Mobitel, Ms. Medavi Gunasekara Manager (HR) at Samapth IT Solutions, Mr. Udara Ariyarathne Head of Innovations at Samapth IT Solutions together with the NHRDC team. Mr. Chinthaka S. Lokuhetti, Chairman, National Human Resources Development Council of Sri Lanka chaired the meeting.

The first committee meeting on developing the Human Resources Development Index (HRDI) was conducted on 28^th March 2022 at 2 pm at the NHRDC Board Room. The main objective of this committee is to explore the necessity and possibility of devising an effective mechanism to measure the HRD status of the National and Sub National levels.

Following members were participated in this meeting.:Prof. Gamini De Alwis, Former Senior Lecturer, University of Colombo (Committee Chairperson), Mr. Deepal Chandrathilake , Senior Assistant Secretary, Ministry of Labour on behalf of Mr. Lal Samarasekara, Addl. Secretary (Administration), Ministry of Labour (Committee Member), Dr. Mrs. Iranga S. Yaddehige, Head (HRM and Coordination unit)(Covering-up), Ministry of Health (Committee Member), Mr. A.M. Gunathilake, Director (HR Development), Central Bank of Sri Lanka (Committee Member), Mrs. U.V. Jayakody, Director, Department of Census and Statistics (Committee Member), Mr. G.A.M.U. Ganepola, Director (IS), TVEC on behalf of Dr. Janaka Jayalath, Deputy Director General, TVEC– (Committee Member), Mrs. J.A.C.P. Jayasinghe, Director (Covering-up), NHRDC(Committee Member) together with the participation of Ms. Navoda Edirisinghe, Research officer, Mr. R.D.C.S. Rajapaksha, Research officer, Miss. Uda Weerasena, Research officer of NHRDC.  Mr. Chinthaka S. Lokuhetti, the chairman of NHRDC initiated the meeting. Prof. Premakumara De Silva, Member of the Commission, UGC (Committee Member) and Mrs. Nimmi Ariyaratne, Programme Quality & Design Analyst, UNDP Sri Lanka (Committee Member) joined the meeting via ZOOM.

The NHRDC officials held a successful discussion with the Chief Secretary and the higher officials of the Western Provincial Council with the aim of identifying strategies to develop the human resource at Provincial Council Level. The discussion focused on the HRD issues existing within the ministries of the Provincial Council. The following officials were present at the meeting.

1. Mr. Chinthaka S. Lokuhetti – Chairman, NHRDC
2. Ms. J.M.C Jayanthi Wijethunge – Chief Secretary, Western Provincial Council
3. Mr. P. Somasiri – Secretary to the Governor
4. Ms. A.D.S Sadeeka – Secretary, Ministry of Local Government (Western Province)
5. Ms. W.T.A Manel – Deputy Chief Secretary (PTR)
6. Mr. H.G.G S Dharmasena – Secretary, Ministry of Health (Western Province)
7. Ms. A.M.S Malkanthi – Deputy Chief Secretary (Finance) (Western Province)
8. Ms. A.M.J.I Abayamanna – Assistant Secretary (Provincial Public Service Commission) (Western Province)
9. Ms. B.E Kaushalya Cooray – Assistant Chief Secretary (Training) (Western Province)
10. Ms. R.C Indika (Personnel) (Western Province)
11. Mr. H.P.A.P Hewawasam – Chief MSO (Personal and Training) (Western Province)
12. Ms. Navoda Edirisinghe – Research Officer, NHRDC
13. Ms. Uda Weerasena - Research Officer, NHRDC

The NHRDC held a meeting on Thursday, 16^th March 2022, with the officials of the Department of Manpower and Employment, to discuss the National Human Resources Development Policy and the Labour Market Analysis, which are planned to be initialized by the NHRDC. The meeting was chaired by Mr. Chinthaka S. Lokuhetti, Chairman, NHRDC. The following officials were present at the meeting.

1. Ms. Anusha Gokula - Director General , Department of Manpower and Employment
2. Mr. S.K.W. Sisira Kumara - Director (PES), Department of Manpower and Employment
3. Ms. M.K. Sithara Jayasena – Director, (Career Guidance), Department of Manpower and Employment
4. Ms. B.H.C. Shiromali – Director (HRM), Department of Manpower and Employment
5. Ms. J.A.C.P. Jayasinghe – Director (Cover-up), NHRDC
6. Mr. D. Senthilnathan – Research Officer, NHRDC
7. Ms. N.D. Edirisinghe – Research Officer, NHRDC
8. Mr. Sandeepa Rajapaksha - Research Officer, NHRDC
9. Ms. Uda Weerasena - Research Officer, NHRDC

NHRDC has successfully conducted the initial meeting with INGOs on the 3^rd of March 2022, at the TVEC Boardroom. The meeting was chaired by Mr. Chinthaka S. Lokuhetti, chairman of NHRDC with the objective of getting the involvement of INGOs towards the human resource development in Sri Lanka. The below-mentioned representatives of respective institutions were present at the meeting.

1. Ms. Nimmi Ariyaratne – Programme Quality & Design Analyst - UNDP
2. Mr. Dilan Jayasekera - Business Partner HR Operations – World Vision Lanka
3. Mr. Erandika Dissanayake - National Project Coordinator- ILO
4. Ms. Rushika Pieris - Head of Human Resources - Save the Children
5. Mr. Tilak Karunaratne - Country Programme Manager - Oxfam in Sri Lanka
6. Ms. Mumtaz Aroos Faleel - Country Director - WUSC Sri Lanka
7. Ms. Subashi Dissanayake - Country Director - HELVETAS SRI LANKA
8. Ms. Anna Yoo Gyoung Kim - Partnerships Specialist - UNOPS
9. Ms. Udani Dissanayake - Partnerships Development Assistant - UNOPS