Dr Sarath Obeysekera

A Gateway to Global Skills, Jobs, and Dignity

Sri Lanka took a historic step in vocational training with the inauguration of the IDMNC IVTS School of Welding Technology in Galle. This flagship initiative, jointly established by IDM Nations Campus and Fabweld Academy, responds to the urgent need for advanced technical training to prepare Sri Lankan youth for high-demand global jobs in the marine, offshore, and heavy-engineering industries.

The launch ceremony was attended by ministers, senior officials, and industry stakeholders. In his keynote, the school’s founder declared:

This is not just a school. This is a gateway — a gateway to skills, a gateway to jobs, a gateway to dignity.”

Meeting Global Demand with Local Talent

Across the world, welders and fabricators are at the heart of shipbuilding, offshore energy platforms, refineries, and petrochemical plants. Yet in Sri Lanka, existing vocational training has remained basic and limited to NVQ 3–5 levels. This has left many youth disadvantaged. When deployed abroad, they often lack theoretical knowledge, international certifications, and communication skills. As a result, they are hired for lower-skilled roles with salaries of USD 800–2,000/month. By contrast, welders trained in 5G and 6G techniques, with certifications under ASME IX, ISO 9606, and API 1104, can earn USD 4,000–6,000/month.

As noted in the concept paper for the project: Labour exploitation thrives when training is weak. Dignity grows when training is strong.

A World-Class Training Model

The new school introduces a comprehensive three-month intensive program that integrates both practical expertise and professional development.

Core Training Modules:
– Advanced welding techniques: special emphasis on 5G and 6G positions.
– Welding codes & certifications: aligned with ASME IX, BS EN ISO 9606, ISO 15614, and API 1104.
– Theoretical foundations: metallurgy, heat treatment, welding defects, drawings, and symbols.
– Non-Destructive Testing (NDT): visual inspection, radiography, ultrasonic.
– English language and communication for global employability.
– Soft skills (Total Quality Personality): financial literacy, entrepreneurship, teamwork, safety.

The training takes place in a purpose-built 4,000–5,000 sq. ft. facility in Magalle, Galle, equipped with smart classrooms, welding booths, an NDT lab, and limited dormitory and canteen facilities. Certification is awarded in partnership with international classification societies such as Lloyd’s, DNV, or IRS, ensuring global recognition.

Strategic Impact for Sri Lanka

The school’s vision is closely aligned with national priorities. The NPP Manifesto of 2024 pledged to expand vocational training and establish a university system for technical education. As Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya emphasized, vocational training must be seen as a smart, practical, and vital choice” — not a fallback option.

The new welding school also strengthens Sri Lanka’s readiness for emerging offshore investments in Trincomalee, Hambantota, and Mannar, where oil, gas, and marine projects are expected to create thousands of high-skilled jobs. By producing globally qualified welders, Sri Lanka will reduce dependence on foreign labour, generate foreign exchange, and uplift its workforce.

Call to Action

In closing his keynote, the founder called on stakeholders to work together:

Welding is not just a skill. Welding is a passport — a passport to the world, to dignity, and to a stronger Sri Lanka.”

With government support, industry partnerships, and the determination of Sri Lankan youth, the IDMNC IVTS School of Welding Technology sets a bold new standard for export-ready skills training. It is more than an institution — it is a model to be replicated across the country, ensuring that Sri Lanka becomes a regional hub for skilled professionals in the marine and offshore sector.

Regards

Dr Sarath Obeysekera