JAT Holdings PLC has launched the JAT ‘Pinthaaroo-Shilpee Abhiman’ program to provide training and apprenticeships to wood craftsmen, thus encouraging a new generation to take up this important age-old craft.
This initiative is an extension of the JAT ‘Sayerlack Sathkaraya’ CSR program and is being conducted in partnership with the National Apprentice Industrial Training Authority (NAITA).
Aspiring wood craftsmen can participate in and obtain an NVQ Level 3 Certification for Woodcraftsmen (Furniture Finisher) with all expenses borne by JAT Holdings PLC through this program.
An MoU between JAT Holdings and NAITA was signed to implement the program.
Minister for Skills Development, Vocational Education, Research and Innovation, Dr. Seetha Arambepola, Founder and Managing Director of JAT Holdings, Aelian Gunawardene, Chairman of NAITA, Tharanga Nalin Gamlath and CEO and Executive Director of JAT Holdings, Nishal Ferdinando and top officials of JAT and the Ministry were present.
Signifying the launch of the program, 16 wood craftsmen were registered as part of the inaugural batch.
State Minister Dr. Sita Arambepola said, “We are hopeful that the ‘Pinthaaroo-Shilpee Abhiman’ program will play an important role in helping many individuals build their craftsmanship and self-confidence, further establishing their place in society.”