SRI LANKA'S HANDICRAFT INDUSTRY COMES INTO ITS OWN
The success story of the Sri Lanka National Design Centre

Objectives

The Project, which was implemented by the ILO, was aimed at empowering the newly created National Design Centre (NDC) to provide rural craftsmen with skills and know-how needed to meet the challenges of an export market, and to improve overall the quality and range of local handicrafts, specially for the overseas market.

Overall Impact

The Project began in 1986 and ended in 1988, with all its main objectives realised at its completion. From being a virtually unknown Centre with limited services, the NDC finally came into its own, empowered with the necessary tools for training craftsmen, disseminating information and carrying out its role as Service Provider for the handicraft industry in the fullest sense of the word.

New Designs

One of the most visible and attractive results of the Project was the impressive array of new products it has spawned, using innovative designs and cheaper raw materials, including waste material. A new Design Department has been installed in the design studios at Moratuwa at the NDC building, and offers training for seven craft areas. As part of its long-term strategy, the NDC has also begun co-operating with ten government and non-government organisations concerned with handicraft development.

Study and Research

One of the most positive results was a three-part study, which the NDC completed on the handicraft sector. The study was the most exhaustive and detailed research work to be undertaken on the handicraft sector in the island and serves as a useful framework and guide to other handicraft related organisations seeking to allocate resources effectively and identify important problems and opportunities, as well.

Training / Professionalism

Training of NDC staff and craftsmen with foreign and local expertise in all aspects of handicraft product- from new designs to alternative, cheaper raw materials and use of new techniques has resulted in an overall high level of professionalism at all levels of the sector.