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

1. Criteria defined in the para 5.7 of NVQ Operation Manual
   The present regulation for the award of NVQ through RPL require minimum industrial experience of 18 months for NVQ 2 or 3 qualifications and further 24 months experience for NVQ Level 4 after obtaining Level 2 or Level 3. (Ref. Para 5.7 of NVQ Operations Manual)
2. Interim Criteria valid until December 31st 2012 to recognize current practitioners in industry with Non –NVQ qualification

• Four months to 11 months training from VTA, NAITA, DTET and TVEC registered Institutes and three years relevant industry experience
• One year or higher duration training from VTA, NAITA, DTET and TVEC registered Institutes and two years relevant industry experience

3. Need of amending the criteria
   This regulation is aimed at gradual acquisition of competencies and to ensure sufficient experience is available with the candidate before he/ she appears for NVQ Level 4 assessment. However, it has been noted that craftsman with long years of experience are reluctant to appear for NVQ Level 2 or 3 because some of their junior colleagues may hold NVQ Level 4 through accredited courses.
   
   This matter was studied by a sub-committee and based on its report, the NVQ Steering Committee recommended the following criteria and the Commission endorsed the same at its meeting on 24th November 2010.
    
4. Criteria for award of NVQ Level 4 qualification through RPL Assessment
   For occupations with NVQ Level 2 or 3 qualifications

1. Following experience requirements will apply for NVQ Level 4 assessments 24 months experience for Level 4 after obtaining Level 2 or 3, OR
2. Minimum 5 years relevant experience in formal employment with contributions to EPF or pension, OR
3. Minimum 5 years relevant experience in self employment with a business registration

5. For occupations which do not have NVQ Level 2 or 3 qualifications
   Minimum 5 years relevant industry experience. If relevant formal employment with contributions to EPF or pension or self employment with business registration can not be proved, TVEC will nominate an assessor, in addition to the assessors nominated by NAITA or VTA, for Level 4 assessment.

You are kindly requested to implement these criteria with effect from 1st January 2011.