RPL (Recognition of prior learning) is an assessment process that assesses the person’s competencies acquired through informal, non–institutional learning to determine the extent to which that person has achieved the required competencies as set out in the relevant National Skills Standard leading to a qualification of the NVQ framework.

With regard to transfer of credits attained by persons in other courses, that particular course is assessed to determine the extent to which it is equivalent to the performance levels as set out in the relevant National Skills Standard. In such a case, RPL is used to assess previously acquired knowledge and skills to fill the gap of prerequisite of a course. Therefore, RPL is implemented in two ways. namely,

• Assessment of a person for NVQ
• Assessment of a course for credit transfer

The training institutions whose courses have been accredited by the TVEC may assess a course for the purpose of credit transfer provided that their accreditation is extended to do so. Therefore, RPL involves the assessment of previously unrecognized skills and knowledge a person has achieved outside the formal institutional training for the purpose of award of NVQ qualifications as well as for the purpose of credit transfer for further study.

• A routine report which certifies the skills performed relating to the training/employment which is certified by a competent supervisor /officer.

• Craftwork and samples.

• Certificate of service in support of skills.

• Recommendations made by the competent persons in the relevant trade.

• Visual discs reflect how the work in respect of training/occupation is done.

• Observation of carrying out the work.

• Practical/theoretical examinations.

In Sri Lanka’s unified TVET system, the National Apprentice and Industrial Training Authority (NAITA) is the authorized institution to undertake assessments of persons for RPL leading to a qualification of the NVQ framework. Licensed Assessors registered with the NAITA do assessments for RPL.
With regard to RPL for credit transfer, training institutions whose courses have been accredited by the TVEC may assess courses/curricula for RPL

Those who are willing to be assessed for RPL shall compare their competencies with that of the relevant National Skills Standard and forward an application to the NAITA for assessment. In the meantime, they can collect and keep ready all the documentary evidence to claim the prior learning and rectify any performance gaps when it compared to national standards.

• The public will have following uses out of the RPL.
• Improved access to recognized courses
• Improved access to higher qualifications
• Certification for unrecognized skills
• Apply for higher positions in the workplace
• Foreign employment opportunities