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Tracy
Tracy
Aug 19 2026
27JAT Holdings PLC marked a significant milestone in its long-term commitment to Sri Lanka’s painter community at the seventh JAT Pintharu Abhiman Convocation, where 120 painters received National Vocational Qualification certifications.
For the first time in the programme’s history, 14 painters received NVQ Level 4 qualifications, while the remaining 106 received NVQ Level 3 certifications. Following the convocation, JAT Pintharu Abhiman has now supported 888 painters in obtaining internationally recognised NVQ qualifications since the programme’s inception.
The introduction of NVQ Level 4 represents an important advancement in the professional pathway offered through JAT Pintharu Abhiman. While NVQ Level 3 focuses on formally recognising competency in wood finishing, NVQ Level 4 certifies more advanced trade skills and incorporates broader knowledge in areas such as project execution and business administration. For experienced painters, this supports continued progression into more complex work while strengthening the professional and commercial foundations of their trade.
Conducted in partnership with the National Apprentice and Industrial Training Authority (NAITA) and the Tertiary and Vocational Education Commission, the certification pathway enables painters to translate skills developed through practical experience into recognised vocational qualifications. JAT Holdings facilitates the assessment process and bears the related certification costs, helping reduce the time and financial barriers that may prevent painters from obtaining formal recognition.
The convocation was held in the presence of H. Abdul Saththar, Chairman of the National Apprentice and Industrial Training Authority, together with senior representatives of NAITA, underscoring the strength of the partnership supporting the programme’s certification pathway. Sajeewa Medawatte, Senior Deputy Inspector General of Police for the Western Province, attended as special guest, alongside Aelian Gunawardene, Managing Director of JAT Holdings PLC; Anika Williamson, Board Director of JAT Holdings PLC; and members of the Group’s senior leadership.
JAT Pintharu Abhiman operates through two complementary components. Its island-wide knowledge-sharing programme provides a broad base of painters with access to technical education, product knowledge, practical guidance and developments within the coatings industry. Its certification pathway supports experienced painters seeking formal recognition and continued professional advancement through NVQ qualifications.
Commenting on the milestone, Dilshan Rodrigo, Director – Sales & Marketing at JAT Holdings PLC, said, “Pintharu Abhiman was developed with the understanding that supporting painters requires both broad-based knowledge sharing and a clear pathway towards professional recognition. The introduction of NVQ Level 4 is an important step forward, as it enables painters with established practical capabilities to demonstrate a higher level of craftsmanship, technical knowledge and professional responsibility. Supporting 888 painters in obtaining NVQ qualifications is a meaningful milestone because formal recognition can strengthen their credibility, improve access to opportunities and provide a stronger foundation for those seeking to establish and grow their own businesses.”
H. Abdul Saththar, Chairman of the National Apprentice and Industrial Training Authority, added, “Partnerships between vocational institutions and industry are essential to ensuring that experienced tradespeople have access to recognised qualifications and opportunities for continued advancement. The introduction of NVQ Level 4 through JAT Pintharu Abhiman strengthens this pathway by formally recognising advanced trade capabilities while supporting painters in developing the professional and business knowledge required to progress within the industry.”
As part of the convocation, painters in attendance were also offered a complimentary eye camp facilitated by Durdans Hospital. The initiative formed part of the programme’s broader focus on supporting the wellbeing of painters alongside their professional development.
Established in 2021, JAT Pintharu Abhiman has grown into a sustained painter development platform combining island-wide education with nationally recognised certification. Through its wider painter engagement initiatives, JAT Holdings has provided technical education to more than 100,000 painters across Sri Lanka.
Research conducted among painters certified through the programme has indicated outcomes extending beyond the qualification itself. Participants have reported increased confidence and improved living standards, while approximately one in five certified painters has gone on to establish their own business.
Through the continued expansion of both its knowledge-sharing and certification components, JAT Holdings aims to support the professionalisation of Sri Lanka’s painter community while strengthening industry standards and livelihood opportunities.
