SLTDA Launches National Tourism Skilling Program to Elevate Standards 📈

• Campaign Overview: The Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority (SLTDA) officially launched its islandwide capacity-building initiative, the National Tourism Skilling Program (NTSP), on 31 August from Ella. • Core Focus: Spearheaded under Tourism Deputy Minister Prof. Ruwan Ranasinghe and coordinated by SLTDA Director Tharanga Rupasinghe, the program targets micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs). It focuses on digital payment adoption, modern online marketing, and official registration. • Sector Impact: The campaign aims to transform local host communities, village-level enterprises, handicraft artisans, and independent operators into resilient, digitally-enabled beneficiaries of global travel traffic, elevating overall quality standards for tourism. • Regional Stakeholder Support: • Ella Tourism Association: Welcomed standardisation efforts to safeguard international reputation amid rapid regional growth in Uva Province. • Ella Homestay Owners Collective: Endorsed digital payment integration to drive direct bookings and lower third-party commissions. • Uva Tuk-Tuk and Adventure Guides Association: Highlighted safety and compliance training to boost trust among high-spending international travelers.