National sub-contractor registration scheme launched

Thushara Kaluarachchi

COLOMBO: The Institute for Construction Training and Development (ICTAD) the National Sub-contractor Registration Scheme was formally introduced at a media briefing in Colombo recently.

In launching this scheme of registration of construction sub-contractors, ICTAD's main objectives of the activity were to Formalise the informal sub-contracting sector, grant state recognition, provide career guidance while upgrading skills, and to optimize the utilisation of appropriate technology.

ICTAD Chairman Vidyajyothi Prof. Lakshman Alwis said this programme would be an initial step towards revolutionising the construction industry into a more formal industry, that would be more efficient to handle any government or private construction.

"At present, many construction contracts are being undertaken in a very informal manner. Due to the present inefficiencies the construction industry does not make a profit. By registering with ICTAD, these sub-contractors will be assigned to their specific fields of expertise and therefore be more identified to be guaranteed jobs more frequently", he said.

The Chairman said with the registration, the sub-contractors will receive a special identification that will enable them to be more socially accepted and also facilitate better negotiations with any bank to take loans. Assistant Director Thamara Samaraweera said several workshops will also be conducted after August 3.

The Chairman emphasised that through simple actions by individual companies, a greater degree of development could be expected- than depending mainly on the Government.

"We must not solely depend on the Government for improvement, but we must take it upon ourselves as companies to work towards a progressive goal. Simple action such as this would help build a better and recognised society," he said.

The ICTAD also hopes to attract youth into the construction industry.