The Canadian Assistant Deputy Minister for Global Affairs Susan Gregson, and the Director General, Ministry of National Policies and Economic Affairs Priyantha Rathnayake recently signed a memorandum in favor of a Canadian Volunteer Cooperation Program in Sri Lanka.

This five year program, called UNITERRA, will support the growth of market and employment opportunities of women and youth in the garment, tourism and hospitality sectors through the exchange of skilled volunteers.

According to the High Commissioner of Canada Shelley Whiting the UNITERRA in Sri Lanka will foster closer relations between the two countries while contributing to sustainable economic growth in sectors of significant importance to the Sri Lankan economy.

High Commissioner Whiting noted “UNITERRA will bring valued technical assistance, create opportunities for enhanced cooperation and build lasting friendships between the Canadian and Sri Lankan participants.”

Funded by Global Affairs Canada, UNITERRA is a global volunteer program spanning 14 countries. It is focused on improving socio-economic conditions by strengthening networks and organizations and pooling expertise and knowledge. The UNITERRA program is being implemented in Sri Lanka by World University Service of Canada (WUSC) and the Centre for International Studies and Cooperation (CECI).

Source: www.news.lk