Sri Lanka eyes global jobs for retiring Navy personnel
COLOMBO – Sri Lanka’s Defence Ministry is exploring measures to equip retiring Navy personnel with internationally recognized qualifications to enhance their access to overseas employment, particularly in the global maritime sector.
The initiative was discussed at a meeting held on Monday (March 30), co-chaired by Deputy Defence Minister Aruna Jayasekara and Deputy Minister of Ports and Civil Aviation Janitha Ruwan Kodithuwakku.
According to a statement from the Ministry of Defence, discussions centred on addressing the lack of internationally recognized certification among retiring naval personnel, an obstacle to securing employment in the global shipping and marine industries.
Officials noted that a significant number of trained and experienced Navy personnel leave service each year with valuable technical expertise, but often lack the formal qualifications required by international employers.
Participants underscored the need to establish a structured mechanism to support personnel in obtaining such certifications, enabling them to transition more effectively into overseas roles.
The move is also expected to contribute to foreign exchange earnings through increased worker remittances, a key source of income for Sri Lanka.
The discussion comes amid broader government efforts to expand employment opportunities for former military personnel, following concerns over some ex-servicemen seeking work abroad under precarious conditions due to limited local opportunities.
-ENCL
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