In a groundbreaking move, Sri Lanka has unveiled a new skills test in the construction field, providing its skilled workforce with the opportunity to work in Japan under the Specified Skilled Worker (SSW) category. The announcement was made today by Minister of Labour and Foreign Employment, Manusha Nanayakkara.
The SSW skills test in construction joins existing tests in Nursing Care, Food Service, and Agriculture, offering a diverse range of employment options for Sri Lankan nationals seeking opportunities in Japan. This initiative is part of a broader effort to enhance bilateral ties and contribute to the development of both nations.
Ambassador of Japan to Sri Lanka, MIZUKOSHI Hideaki, Chief Representative of JICA Sri Lanka Office, AMADA Tetsuya, and the Chairman of SLBFE, A. A. M. Hilmi, were present at the announcement, underscoring the collaborative nature of this endeavor.
Minister Nanayakkara expressed gratitude for Japan’s longstanding support, highlighting Japan’s pivotal role in Sri Lanka’s economic recovery during times of crisis. He emphasized the robust friendship between the two nations, noting Japan’s continuous efforts to provide job opportunities for Sri Lankan youth.
Addressing the gathering, Minister Nanayakkara outlined strategic measures to empower Sri Lankans for Japanese employment. Cabinet approval has been obtained to incorporate Japanese language into the school curriculum, aiming to prepare students for prospective jobs in Japan. The SLBFE has initiated a nationwide program to teach Japanese language skills, and individuals who invest in learning Japanese will be reimbursed when selected for a job in Japan.
Currently, the SSW system in Japan is open to Sri Lankans in the fields of Nursing Care, Food Service, and Agriculture. However, the Minister disclosed that efforts have been made to expand opportunities to the construction, building cleaning, and automobiles sectors. Meetings with relevant Japanese ministers have taken place, resulting in the inclusion of the construction sector in the SSW category for Sri Lankan workers.
Minister Nanayakkara emphasized the importance of Japanese language skills for those seeking employment in the construction industry in Japan. He encouraged individuals with such skills to take advantage of this new opportunity, emphasizing the exponential growth in job opportunities for foreign nationals in Japan over the next five years.
With these developments, Sri Lanka aims to strengthen its workforce while fostering a deeper economic collaboration with Japan, marking a significant step forward in the shared journey toward mutual prosperity.
