Two training programs were conducted at Community Education Center, Thalahena, Malambe for the IWCs of Junk and Nadar Shops in the Kaduwela Municipal area on 31st of January and 20th of February 2023. 11 (10 Male and 01 Female) IWCs-Junk and Nadar Shops participated in the first day and 26 (25 Male and 01 Female) IWCs-Street and Door-To-Door Collectors participated in the training. The overall objective of the training program series is to increase the capacity of IWCs. The negotiation skills and behavioral aspect training objective was to improve business knowledge and related skills of IWCs. The training contained 05 sessions; Introduction, Introducing the value of trainees, identifying leadership skills required for the sustainability of their business, Identifying the communication skills required in dealing with individuals and customers, and Development and enhancement of the business to ensure the sustainability of the business.
The sessions consisted of different brainstorming activities, short discussions, information exposure, and group work. Mr. Vipula Jayatissa, a Former Member, of the Board of Directors, of Western Province Waste Management Authority (WPWMA) conducted the training by maintaining a two-way dialogue instead of merely presenting data and information. An open discussion was conducted to identify their issues and requirements. In the first session of the training, the participants were given the opportunity to briefly explain the current situation of their businesses.