From left: Palmyrah Development Board Chairman Krishantha Pathiraja, Hatch MakerStudio Head Maker Florian Manderschied, Hatch CEO and Co-Founder Brindha Selvadurai, Vocational Training Authority CEO and Chairman Eranga Basnayake and VTA Vice Chairman Mahesh Ariyarathne

In order to address the industry’s needs for skilled and competent workers, the Vocational Training Authority (VTA) and Hatch MakerStudio have joined forces to pilot an innovative apprenticeship programme. 

The apprenticeship programme is designed for students in the field of mechatronics, robotics, automation and CNC-technologies and is focusing on the upskill, entrepreneurial mindset and problem-solving capabilities. Together with industry partners, the selected apprentices will undergo a one-month training programme at Hatch MakerStudio before being placed in the companies. The programme comprises of product development training, software and rapid prototyping training and problem-solving and design thinking exercises. 

During the course of the apprenticeship, Hatch MakerStudio will provide supervision and support for both the apprentices and companies, in order to ensure effective skills development and utilisation of working power. Students with their own specific product ideas and business models can choose Hatch MakerStudio as their place of apprenticeship. 

This programme aims to improve the employability of technical and vocational education and training (TVET) graduates as well as support potential development of start-up businesses in the field of automation, robotics and IOT. Furthermore, it opens up new avenues for private sector collaboration and their engagement with TVET institutions.

The next generation of Sri Lanka’s industry workforce is currently studying at TVET institutes all over the country. Since the manufacturing technology is under permanent development, the requirements for TVET graduates have also evolved.