SLITHM and Samurdhi Department launch ‘Hotel Operations Multitasker Program’

• Move aims to build multi-skilled tourism workforce countrywide
• 35 franchise institutes covering all districts deliver NVQ Level 3 training, with course fees for Samurdhi beneficiary families fully covered by Govt.
• Appoints celebrity chef Charith N. Silva as Brand Ambassador, boosting visibility of program targeting 2,000 students initially and 20,000 over time
• Tourism Deputy Minister Prof. Ruwan Ranasinghe stresses vocational education as critical, linking skills development to national tourism growth and poverty reduction
• SLITHM Chairman Dheera Hettiarachchi says tourism expansion to 5 m visitors will need 800,000 workers; program designed to bridge workforce gap via versatile hotel training

By Charumini de Silva

The Sri Lanka Institute of Tourism and Hotel Management (SLITHM), in collaboration with the Department of Samurdhi Development, has launched the “Sathkaraye Shrama Sena – Hotel Operations Multitasker Program,” a nationwide initiative aimed at creating a multi-skilled workforce to serve Sri Lanka’s growing tourism and hospitality sector.

The official launch, held at the SLITHM Auditorium, marked a milestone in vocational training through a public-private partnership (PPP) model. 

The program brings together State institutions, private training providers, and industry stakeholders to equip young people with practical, industry-relevant skills.

Under this initiative, 35 franchise institutes covering all districts have partnered with the SLITHM to deliver training countrywide, ensuring broad access for rural youth. The course is designed as a National Vocational Qualification (NVQ) Level 3 program approved by the Tertiary and Vocational Training Authority. It spans 360 hours (three months) and costs Rs. 55,850 per student, but fees for Samurdhi beneficiary families will be fully borne by the Department of Samurdhi Development. 

Celebrity chef Charith N. Silva, known for his ‘Wild Cookbook’ YouTube channel, which boasts over 10 million subscribers, has been appointed as the Brand Ambassador of the program. 

Tourism Deputy Minister Prof. Ruwan Ranasinghe highlighted the program’s wider social and economic purpose. “By aligning skills development with national tourism growth targets, the ‘Hotel Operations Multitasker Program’ is being positioned as a catalyst for both industry expansion and social upliftment, equipping thousands of young Sri Lankans to build careers, while helping their families move out of poverty,” he said.

Prof. Ranasinghe stressed that vocational education is as critical as academic education, especially in people-centric industries like tourism. “Not everyone will have the economic capacity to come to Colombo and pursue such vocational training programs. That is why this collaborative approach between the State and private sector is essential,” he said, adding that this partnership facilitates access and opportunities for students countrywide. 

The Deputy Minister also underscored the need for “a mindset of lifelong learning,” announcing plans to expand NVQ Level 5 qualifications, which would further open pathways for career progression in the sector.

SLITHM Chairman Dheera Hettiarachchi underscored the importance of preparing for the tourism industry’s rapid expansion. “Sri Lanka is expecting 3 million tourists in 2025 and has a medium-term target of 5 million. When the industry grows to that level, it will require a workforce of 800,000, compared to the 421,000 currently employed in formal hotels,” he noted. 

He explained that the new Multitasker Program is designed to meet this demand and aims to train 2,000 students in its initial intake, with an ambitious target of producing 20,000 graduates over the coming years.

The program will also link students with hotels across the country for on-the-job training, ensuring they graduate with direct industry exposure. The program focuses on building versatile skills for employment in one and two-star hotels, covering areas such as front office operations, housekeeping, food and beverage service, and other essential hotel functions. 

Hettiarachchi added that while the initial focus will be on one and two-star hotels, the program’s graduates could eventually move into higher segments of the industry as they gain experience. 

The SLITHM Chairman confirmed that progress will be closely monitored to ensure the program delivers tangible benefits to both the trainees and the economy, with the possibility of introducing contractual agreements to maximise long-term impact.

Tourism Ministry Secretary Aruni Ranaraja said the initiative would deliver benefits beyond the tourism sector, whilst emphasising on the aim of empowering and attracting women into the hospitality industry. 

“This will have positive ripple effects on the overall economy. It also empowers women in the industry. Use this opportunity with respect and responsibility. This is not just a training program; it is an opportunity to mould yourself as brand ambassadors for Sri Lanka’s hospitality industry,” she told the first batch of trainees. 

She also commended the support extended by industry leaders in strengthening the tourism workforce.

Social Security Ministry Secretary Sampath Manthrinayake encouraged students to see the program as a stepping stone. “Education is the best way to escape poverty. Don’t stop your education with this program. The SLITHM has other courses that will allow you to move up. Use this as the first step to improve your life, your family’s livelihood, and your country,” he urged.

Manthrinayake also said the initiative is not only a way to create sustainable employment and uplift families currently reliant on Samurdhi support, but also as a national effort to build a professional workforce capable of meeting the challenges of a competitive global tourism industry.