Sri Lanka’s private sector is facing a labor shortage of nearly 400,000-500,000 employees across various industries, said Member of Parliament and Minister of Industry and Entrepreneurship Development Sunil Handunnetti.

“We have discovered that in industries, especially in the footwear, leather product industry, food and food beverage industry and garment industries, they utilise the most advanced technological tools. But the problem is the lack of workers is high. At the moment, there is a huge shortage of 400,000-500,000 employees in the private sector,” Handunnetti said, speaking at a recent media briefing.

He pointed out that though Sri Lankan private sector industries are increasingly investing in advanced equipment to make work more efficient, there exists a shortage of workers, in addition to those who complete relevant education and are unable to find employment.

“There are many people who complete their education and are still unemployed, highlighting a major gap between education and industry needs.” 

He further added that there is a need for education to facilitate opportunities for practical work experience, thereby creating ease of employment. “I think education should be closely connected to practical work experience and the citizens should go for that method, rather than relying solely on traditional classroom learning to be prepared for the workforces.”

Furthermore, Hadunneththi emphasised the need to strengthen practical work experience and help to bridge the gap between education and employment and support the private sector.