With the objective of strengthening the future of Sri Lanka’s fisheries sector, attracting more young people to the industry, and providing modern vocational training, a special Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed today (30) between the Department of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources and DVV International, an organization operating in collaboration with the Government of Germany.

The agreement was signed by the Director General of the Department of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources, Mr. S. J. Kahawatte, and the South Asia Regional Director of DVV International, Ms. Sonja Belete.

Under the new programme, young people will receive modern vocational training focused on the long-line fishing industry. The initiative is expected to further strengthen Sri Lanka’s multi-day fishing sector, while trainees who successfully complete the programme and secure employment will also have the opportunity to obtain the National Vocational Qualification (NVQ) Certificate.

As part of this collaboration, DVV International also donated several computers to the Department of Fisheries to enhance the Department’s training programmes and administrative functions through improved technological capacity.

Director General S. J. Kahawatte stated that the primary objective of the programme is to ensure the sustainable development of Sri Lanka’s fisheries sector by developing a skilled workforce equipped with modern technical knowledge and professional competencies.

Representing the Department of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources at the signing ceremony were Director (Investigation, Training and Raids) Ms.L. G. R. Isurani, Chief Accountant Ms.R. D. R. S. Rajapaksa, Assistant Director (Investigation) Mr.H. Navod Wijethunga, Legal Assistant Officer Ms.W. A. D. P. D. Wanigasundara, and several other departmental officials.