All training institutions under the Ministry of Science, Technology, Research, Skills Development and Vocational Training will double the intake of students from next year and upgrade their courses of study to international level enabling a trainee to find employment anywhere in the world, Minister of Science, Technology, Research, Skills Development and Vocational Training and Kandyan Heritage, Dr. Sarath Amunugama told guests at the launch of a new Agro Technology Diploma Course at the Hasalaka Technical College last week.
“We must work according to 21st Century methods while looking forward to the 22nd Century, leaving behind 19th Century and 20th Century methods,” he said.
The Hasalaka Technical College functions under the Department of Technical Education and Training which is under Minister Amunugama’s Ministry. The Minister was explaining the policy that should guide the new course of study as well as the work of all institutions under his Ministry. The new course of study was being inaugurated at Hasalaka on the specific directions of the Minister as he considered it to be a most appropriate course of training for the youth in that flourishing agricultural area fed by the famous Minipe scheme. The course will provide theoretical as well as practical training.
The Minister recalled his previous involvements with the Minipe scheme, both as a public officer and a Minister.
The Minister said that agriculture must be combined with industry if the country is to progress instead of remaining a backward economy.
The Minister also said that five acres will be set aside to set up a new Agro Technology Centre soon at Hasalaka. He said that drone technology will be introduced to support agriculture through this centre and knowledge and training in agricultural equipment will also be provided here.