Walkers Tours, one of Sri Lanka’s leading destination management companies, has taken a bold step in tourism education by launching an Industrial Training Center in partnership with Sabaragamuwa University. The objective of this initiative is to bridge the gap between academic learning and industry demands, by preparing the future generations of tourism professionals with essential knowledge and practical skills.
The newly opened Industrial Training Center is designed to function as an incubation hub for tourism management students, by transforming theoretical classrooms into practical experiences. As the tourism industry in Sri Lanka is evolving, Walkers Tours recognized and understood the importance of professionalizing tourism education. The company is deeply committed to equipping future leaders with the skills which will help them excel in their careers.
Mr. Nalaka Amaratunga, Chief Executive Officer, Walkers Tours Limited, shared his thoughts on the partnership, stating, “The Industrial Training Center represents our commitment to investing in the future of Sri Lanka’s tourism industry. By bridging the gap between theory and practice, our objective is to cultivate a generation of knowledgeable, highly skilled tourism professionals. The programme is about empowering our students with the confidence and insights they need to create a meaningful impact on the tourism industry.”
The Sabaragamuwa University has also provided unparalleled support in bringing this initiative to life. Mr. Hiran Dinusha, Senior Lecturer and Coordinator the B.Sc. (Hons.) Tourism Management Degree Programme has been instrumental in driving this public-private sector partnership forward. Mr. Nalaka Amaratunga, Chief Executive Officer, Walkers Tours Limited, has set a high standard in tourism education, in order to nurture future industry leaders and contribute to the professional development of Sri Lanka’s tourism industry.
Through this partnership and the launch of the Industrial Training Center, Walkers Tours and Sabaragamuwa University have laid the foundations for a brighter future in the tourism sector. This initiative ensures that students will be well-prepared to face the challenges posed in the global tourism sphere. It is a significant milestone in tourism education and reflects a shared vision to develop a professionally skilled workforce.