Ketheeswaran Sugesan
I am a TVET and Skills Development Specialist with over 15 years of experience supporting policy reform, institutional strengthening, and training system development across Sri Lanka. I have worked extensively with government institutions, development partners, NGOs, and the private sector to design and implement labor market–responsive TVET programmes, establish and upgrade training centres, and deliver Training of Trainers (ToT) initiatives.
My professional experience includes leading donor-funded projects, building public–private partnerships, and providing technical advisory support on inclusivity, employability, and institutional performance. I bring a practical, results-oriented approach grounded in field experience, with strong exposure to international best practices through long-term collaboration with GIZ and other development partners.
Experience
Programme Component Manager | GIZ – VTSL Project (June 2024 – Present)
I currently lead the implementation of a national-level TVET support programme aligned with Sri Lanka’s education and skills development strategies. My role involves managing multi-stakeholder partnerships with government ministries, private-sector actors, and civil society organizations to promote inclusive and labor market–responsive training systems. I provide technical and policy advice on institutional strengthening, gender inclusion, and industry linkages, while supervising project staff and ensuring donor-compliant delivery of outputs. I also manage financing instruments such as grants and financing agreements to support local implementation partners and ensure sustainable post-project results.
Advisor – Skills Development | GIZ – VTSL Project (June 2020 – May 2023)
As an Advisor for Skills Development, I focused on strengthening private sector engagement in TVET programmes and aligning curricula with industry needs. I supported innovation in training delivery through ICT integration and blended learning approaches. My responsibilities included conducting project reviews, contributing to monitoring and evaluation systems, and supporting evidence-based decision-making to improve training quality and employability outcomes..
Project Officer | GIZ – VTSL Project (May 2019 – June 2020)
During this period, I supported the planning and implementation of skills development interventions targeting vulnerable groups, with a strong focus on gender inclusion. I contributed to project evaluation activities, donor reporting, and strengthened partnerships with TVET institutions and community-based organizations to ensure effective and inclusive programme delivery..
Programme Officer | GIZ – VTN Project (2015 – May 2019)
I played a key role in upgrading vocational training centres to meet NVQ accreditation standards and supported the development of Training of Trainers (ToT) and life-skills programmes. My work included coordinating English and social skills training, advising on institutional development, and supporting initiatives related to conflict transformation and community engagement in post-conflict areas.
District Project Coordinator | Sevalanka Foundation (USAID-funded) (2013 – March 2015)
As District Project Coordinator, I managed district-level implementation of donor-funded development projects, leading field teams and coordinating with government authorities and NGOs. I facilitated donor missions, monitored project performance, and prepared progress and performance management reports to ensure accountability and impact.
Project Coordinator | Sevalanka Foundation (USAID, IRC & Embassy of Japan-funded) (2009 – 2012)
I coordinated livelihood and socio-economic development programmes in post-conflict regions, overseeing project implementation and stakeholder engagement. My role focused on building strong partnerships with local authorities and civil society organizations to ensure sustainability, effective service delivery, and long-term community impact.
Staff Assistant | University of Jaffna (World Bank-funded) (2007 – 2009)
At the University of Jaffna, I supported project administration, procurement, and reporting for World Bank–funded initiatives. I assisted in organizing workshops and training programmes and contributed to institutional development activities during the early stages of my professional career.
Education
Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) in Physical Science
University of Jaffna | 2007
The B.Sc. in Physical Science provided a solid academic foundation in mathematics, physics, and related scientific disciplines. The programme developed strong analytical, quantitative, and problem-solving skills, fostering a structured and evidence-based approach to learning and research. This background has supported my professional work in technical training environments, data analysis, and systematic project planning within the TVET and development sectors.
Master of Science (M.Sc.) in Applied Electronics
University of Colombo | 2014
The M.Sc. in Applied Electronics offered in-depth technical training in electronics, automation, and embedded systems, with a strong focus on applied research and real-world problem solving. My research thesis, “Greenhouse Automation using Microcontrollers,” explored the application of sensor-based control systems to improve efficiency and sustainability in agricultural environments. This programme enhanced my analytical thinking, systems design skills, and understanding of technology-driven solutions, which I later applied in ICT-enabled training, digital transformation initiatives, and modern TVET programme design..
Postgraduate Diploma in Development Studies
University of Colombo | 2024
This postgraduate programme provided advanced knowledge in development theory, policy analysis, and project implementation within complex socio-economic contexts. The course emphasized practical application of development frameworks, including results-based management, stakeholder analysis, and inclusive development approaches. Through this programme, I strengthened my capacity to analyze development challenges, design evidence-based interventions, and contribute effectively to policy dialogue and programme implementation in areas such as skills development, institutional reform, and social inclusion.
I have completed a range of specialized professional trainings that strengthen my expertise in TVET development, project management, private sector engagement, and institutional capacity building. These programmes were delivered by internationally recognized institutions and development partners, with a strong emphasis on practical application in donor-funded and public-sector contexts.
I am trained in Project Cycle Management using the Logframe Approach, which has supported my work in designing, implementing, monitoring, and evaluating complex development and TVET programmes. Through the GIZ Academy of International Development (AIZ), I completed advanced training on Private Sector Engagement, enhancing my ability to build effective public–private partnerships and align training systems with labor market needs.
My professional development also includes Effective Training Design and Management (GIZ AIZ, Bangkok), which strengthened my capacity to design and manage Training of Trainers (ToT) programmes and institutional capacity-building initiatives. In addition, I have completed training in Organizational Development through MDF South Asia and GIZ, supporting my work in institutional reform, staff capacity development, and change management within TVET institutions.
I have received specialized training in Advanced European Commission Proposal Writing from the Karl Kübel Institute (India), equipping me with strong skills in donor proposal development and results-based reporting. I have also completed USAID Evaluation for Program Managers, delivered by Social Impact, which strengthened my competencies in monitoring, evaluation, learning, and accountability.
Together, these certifications complement my academic qualifications and field experience, enabling me to deliver high-quality technical advisory services, training programmes, and institutional development support.
