JAT Holdings PLC, in collaboration with the National Apprentice and Industrial Training Authority (NAITA) and the MBC network, has successfully expanded its pioneering JAT Pintharu Abhiman programme to empower woodcraftsmen across Sri Lanka. Through a series of hands-on workshops, this industry-first initiative provides advanced training to experienced wood finishers. The goal is to provide a fast-tracked path to National Vocational Qualification (NVQ) certification for skilled individuals, helping them gain broader access to professional opportunities. This programme has trained over 1,500 craftsmen to date, with over 500 of them graduating with internationally recognised NVQ certifications since the programme’s launch in December 2021.

The second phase of JAT Pintharu Abhiman Workshops ran from the 29^th of August to the 6^th of November 2024. Accordingly, workshops were held across 8 districts, including Divulapitiya, Kandy, Tangalle, Polonnaruwa, Batticaloa, Nuwara Eliya, Galle, and Colombo. With strong support from NAITA representatives and extensive media coverage provided by the MTV/MBC network, the JAT Pintharu Abhiman Workshops were able to attract and engage a large number of participants from across the Island. The workshops also highlighted the importance of formal certification and demonstrated how the NVQ qualification could unlock access to credit facilities, helping skilled craftsmen expand their businesses.

Dilshan Rodrigo – Director of Marketing at JAT Holdings PLC, explained the significance of the programme, “JAT Pintharu Abhiman reflects our commitment to the Sri Lankan wood coatings industry, and to the talented individuals who are dedicated to their craft. By broadening their technical skills, offering professional certification, and recognising their achievements, we are working to elevate the entire industry. This programme has demonstrated remarkable success in helping woodcraftsmen transform their careers, and we look forward to welcoming even more participants as we continue this journey.”

Wasantha Gunaratne – Director – Sales & Technical (South Asia) at JAT Holdings PLC added, “JAT Pintharu Abhiman is designed as a catalyst for the progress of local painters. By introducing international product knowledge and advanced technical expertise, we’re empowering Sri Lankan craftsmen to elevate their skill sets. This effort not only strengthens individuals but also enhances the overall standards of the industry. It empowers local talent to embrace global best practices and drive the industry forward with superior craftsmanship.”

An exciting feature of each workshop is the Best Wood Finisher Competition, where participants demonstrate their skills through a series of tasks. After rigorous observation, the Top 10 painters are selected based on their technique and finishing skills. Of these, three finalists are recognised for excellence, and awarded certificates and prizes, along with public exposure through local billboards that celebrate their achievements. The competitions are judged by prominent architects, engineers, and industry experts, enhancing the recognition that the painters and woodcraftsmen receive.

Through programmes like JAT Pintharu Abhiman, JAT Holdings PLC reaffirms its dedication to building a brighter future for Sri Lankan woodcraftsmen. This initiative, the first of its kind in the local industry, has created a fast-tracked pathway for craftspeople to gain formal recognition and financial support, encouraging them to build a sustainable and successful future. The programme also includes a women-focused initiative that provides similar opportunities for women painters and finishers, together with many more female-specific benefits and areas of attention.