The Automobile Industry Council (AIC) was unveiled on Wednesday in Colombo with the participation of Industries and Health Minister Dr Ramesh Pathirana, Minister of Education Susil Premajayantha and officials of the AIC.
This visionary entity, born as a government-backed and privately led initiative, is resolutely dedicated to guiding the automobile industry into a new era of innovation, skill enhancement, and global eminence. Its paramount mission is to revolutionize the industry’s landscape, shifting it from a consumer-centric model into a globally interconnected manufacturing powerhouse. The Automobile Industry Council steadfastly sets its sights on a compelling vision for the future.
Given the ever-evolving political landscape, there is a unique opportunity for all stakeholders, particularly those holding ministerial positions related to transportation, the automobile assembly and component manufacturing industry, vocational and higher education in engineering and technology. The establishment of this council presents a significant chance to proactively shape the automobile industry’s future by providing a practical roadmap aimed at reducing road traffic accidents, enhancing the working conditions and dignity of technicians, and fostering decentralized economic opportunities through skill development in these sectors.
In essence, this marks the inaugural instance of a government-backed, privately-led organization receiving approval and incorporation for the management and advancement of Sri Lanka’s automobile industry.
It represents a transformative change that the country has been anticipating for over seven decades. The council’s governance benefits from the involvement of six ex officio members representing the Ministries of Education, Finance, Industries, and Transport, adding governmental gravitas to its pursuits. Furthermore, two pivotal skills-based government organizations, TVEC and NAITA, play instrumental roles in shaping the industry’s destiny. The council also brings an academic perspective to the fore by partnering with two prestigious institutes recognized by the University Grants Commission (UGC) – CGTTI and UNIVOTECH. This academic alliance underscores the council’s commitment to nurturing a talent pool primed to lead the industry into the future.
The Board of Directors is further enriched by the inclusion of eight industry stakeholders, each championing distinct sectors within the automotive domain: Vehicle manufacturers and assemblers, manufacturers of vehicle components and accessories, Providers of maintenance, repair, breakdown, and emergency services, Importers,
dealers, and distributors of vehicles and components, Providers of transportation services, authorities in design, engineering, research, and development, national-level Associations/Chambers within the domain and automobile sector associations authorized to issue International Driving Permits.
Each of these sectors holds a vital position in the council’s decision-making processes, ensuring that all facets of the industry have a dedicated voice. This inclusivity promotes a holistic approach to the development of the industry, fostering a well-rounded and equitable evolution. MFJ
