On December 11, 2024 the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) and Japan Foundation (JF) inaugurated the first batch of the ‘Irodori’ Japanese Language Teacher Training Programat the JICA Sri Lanka office. This training of trainers (TOT), organised in collaboration with the Sri Lanka Bureau of Foreign Employment (SLBFE) with the resource input from JF, aims to equip Sri Lankan workers with the language skills and cultural knowledge needed for employment in Japan.
This TOT program is conducted as part of JICA’s technical assistanceto SLBFE in “The Project for Strengthening Sri Lanka’s Decent Worker Sending Systems to Japan”, whichaddresses the key challenges the Sri Lankan job seekersface in the course of their effortsin expanding the chance of finding jobs in Japan. By providing Japanese Language teachers with effective training in practical Japanese and cultural integration, the program enhances job seekers’ ability to pass language tests and thrive in Japanese workplaces.
Representatives from the Embassy of Japan, SLBFE, JF and JICA attended the ceremony, underscoring the strong partnership. This initiative is a vital step in creating sustainable opportunities for Sri Lankan workers in Japan while promoting deeper cultural exchange.