The Sri Lanka Institute of Tourism and Hotel Management (SLITHM) has entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with EHL Advisory Services Llp to conduct a gap analysis study in Sri Lanka with the aim to improve the quality of tourism education on par with global tourism education standards. Established in 1964, SLITHM is the only government-approved premier Institute in Sri Lanka to train youth in the field of Hospitality and Travel and is managed by The Ministry of Tourism. The Institute offers courses island wide in Anuradhapura, Bandarawela, Pallekelle, Koggala, Ratnapura, Kurunegala, Jaffna and Pasikudha. As knowledge partner, EHL Advisory Services will conduct a gap analysis study by meeting key Sri Lanka Tourism stakeholders, conduct research and analysis to understand key environmental factors related to programmes conducted by SLITHM, and hold on-ground visits to review SLITHM’s network of existing infrastructure in Colombo, Koggala and Kandy. On completion of the gap analysis study, EHL Advisory Services will submit a report to SLITHM on the way forward to elevate the quality of education to global standards. The MoU is valid for a period of six months.

EHL's team of leading subject experts will develop applicable, innovative solutions that will help SLITHM to prepare for future excellence with a commitment to academic rigor, service culture and quality assurance. This collaboration reflects the promise to uplift the tourism sector as directed in the National Policy Framework Vistas of Prosperity and Splendor.

Using the 10 key policies mandated by His Excellency, The President of Sri Lanka, Sri Lanka Tourism constructed a 10-pillar strategy for the tourism industry. One of the Policy’s stated goals is to ”˜Establish tourism training schools in main tourism cities and also introduce attractive skill development courses’ and this collaboration with EHL Advisory Services is a step towards fulfilling this directive.

Sri Lanka Tourism is charting a new course as it undergoes strategic re-engineering to be able to optimise resources and become the highest exchange-earner for the country while creating jobs and transforming the sector into a sustainable industry, enabling it to finally achieve its potential.

Ms. Kimarli Fernando, Chairperson, Sri Lanka Tourism

Ms. Nadeeka Wataliyadda, Director General/ Chief Executive Officer, Sri Lanka Institute of Tourism and Hotel Management (SLITHM)