Srimathi Shivashankar, Corporate Vice President and Head of EdTech Business at HCL Technologies, recently discussed the company’s collaboration with the newly launched Pathfinder Tech Institute, a venture aimed at IT and educational training in Sri Lanka. In an interview with Daily News Business, Srimathi elaborated on how this partnership is helping to equip both youth and corporate professionals with essential skills in digital, cloud, and cyber technologies.
The collaboration between HCL Technologies and Pathfinder Tech Institute offers globally recognized certification programs, project-based internships, and job readiness initiatives to help bridge the critical talent supply-demand gap in the IT industry. Srimathi highlighted the growing importance of upskilling and reskilling, noting that such efforts are vital for both business competitiveness and career growth in the ever-evolving IT landscape.
Q: What is Pathfinder Tech Institute?
A: Pathfinder Tech Institute is a newly established company focused on providing IT and educational training in Sri Lanka. It partners with HCL Technologies to offer training programs that are geared toward employment in various industries, specifically targeting youth and professionals.
Q: What kind of jobs do the students get after the training?
A: The training prepares students for entry-level positions in digital, cloud, cyber, and other technology roles in Sri Lanka. For corporate employees, the focus is on developing the next set of skills required for career progression.
Q: What are the career paths for Pathfinder Tech candidates who complete the course?
A: Upon completion, candidates receive a certificate from HCL Technologies that is valid both in Sri Lanka and internationally. Career opportunities include roles in various digital and technology sectors. The training helps both tech and non-tech professionals remain relevant in their careers.
Q: Are there plans to launch other career development programs in the future?
A: The current collaboration between HCL Technologies and Pathfinder Tech Institute includes project-based internships and job readiness programs. These certification programs are globally recognized and focus on improving employability.
Q: How does HCL Technologies adapt to the ever-changing IT landscape?
A: HCL Technologies ensures that its employees continuously acquire new skills and stay up-to-date with emerging technologies. The company focuses on upskilling and reskilling to maintain its competitiveness in the rapidly changing IT landscape.
Q: Why is upskilling and reskilling essential for business survival?
A: Upskilling and reskilling are critical for businesses to stay competitive, efficient, and productive. Companies need to keep pace with market changes, absorb the right talent, and stay agile to service clients effectively.
Q: What are the biggest challenges facing the global IT job market?
A: One of the major challenges is the talent supply-demand gap. Market dynamics change quickly, and skills that are in high demand today may no longer be as relevant tomorrow. Partnerships like the one between Pathfinder Tech Institute and HCL Technologies are helping to create a pipeline of talent to address this gap.
