http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=20110813_02

Norwegian boost for Vanni youth : Ex-LTTE combatants among beneficiaries

Sri Lanka's post war efforts aimed at rehabilitating those who once fought for the LTTE and other youth will receive a big boost, courtesy the Norwegian government.
Norway has provided funds through the World University of Canada (WUSC) to set up a vocational training facility at the one-time LTTE stronghold at Jayapuram, and two Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) centrers in the Vanni.
Youth Affairs and Skills Development Minister, Dallas Alahapperuma's media spokesman Nimal Weeratunga told The Island that Sri Lanka was grateful for post-war overseas assistance aimed at helping war affected communities. Weeratunga said that those who had experience in various fields could enroll at RPL centers in Mullaitivu and Kilinochchi to secure recognition.
Acting Norwegian Ambassador John Otto and Sri Lanka director of WUSC Ingrid Kanutsan will join Minister Alahapperuma today (Aug. 13) for the inauguration of the three facilities in Kilinochchi and Mullaitivu districts.
Weeratunga said that the ministry was confident that the Tamil youth would take advantage of the new facilities. Those joining the vocational training centre at Jayapuram would receive a monthly payment of Rs. 1,000, working clothes and a bicycle each.
The total project is expected to cost Rs. 76 mn.
In addition to projects undertaken by Youth Affairs and Skills Development ministry, the Commissioner General of Rehabilitation conducts vocational training programmes for the benefit of captured LTTE personnel. Maj. Gen. Sudantha Ranasinghe told The Island that of 11,600 held at 24 rehabilitation facilities, the vast majority had received vocational training. According to him, the International Organisation for Migration (IOM), too, had launched a special project to help ex-LTTE combatants find employment.
Courtesy : The Island