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With the objective of transforming the caregiving sector in Sri Lanka into a more structured, professional, and respected field of employment, the inaugural training programme for the Caregiver – NVQ Level 03 Certificate commenced this morning (01) at the National Institute of Labour Studies (NILS), under the leadership of Mr. S. M. Piyatissa, Secretary to the Ministry of Labour.

The programme, conducted by the National Institute of Labour Studies, received nearly 600 applications, from which 30 participants were selected for the first training cohort. A notable feature of this initiative is that the course is offered entirely free of charge.

To provide the required practical training for the Caregiver – NVQ Level 03 programme, a dedicated training centre was also declared open at the same occasion, under the patronage of the Secretary to the Ministry of Labour.

Addressing the gathering, the Secretary emphasized that caregiving should not be viewed merely as the act of looking after an individual, but rather as a recognized profession requiring proper standards, qualifications, knowledge, skills, and attitudes. He noted that while the responsibility of caring for patients, the elderly, children, and persons requiring special care has traditionally fallen upon women, it is essential that those engaged in this work receive proper training and professional expertise.

He further highlighted that caregivers must be able to provide services while safeguarding the dignity, emotions, self-respect, and human values of those under their care. Essential skills include a basic understanding of health, the ability to administer first aid, proper use of caregiving equipment, and sensitivity to the psychological and emotional needs of individuals.

The Secretary explained that a comprehensive policy framework is being advanced to formalize the caregiving sector. This includes introducing professional qualifications and training programmes, establishing service standards, and building the necessary institutional and regulatory framework. He stressed that recognizing caregiving as a profession would ensure that caregivers receive professional respect, proper recognition, and fair wages in line with their qualifications and skills.

By granting professional recognition to this field, caregiving is expected to become a career path that young men and women can choose with pride, while also creating new employment opportunities that will attract the younger generation.

The Secretary described this training programme as an important initial step in a long-term initiative, urging participants to make the most of this valuable opportunity to enhance their knowledge, skills, and attitudes, thereby contributing to the improvement of quality standards in Sri Lanka’s caregiving sector. The programme is part of a broader initiative carried out with the collaboration of the Ministries of Labour, Health, Social Empowerment, and Women and Child Affairs.

The event was attended by Mrs. Nadeeka Wataliyadda, Commissioner General of Labour, along with senior officials of the Ministry of Labour, the National Institute of Labour Studies, and other relevant institutions.