Perceived Barriers for Employment in Tourism Industry among Rural Communities

Abstract

Present Tourism Strategy focuses on increasing tourism related employment in Sri Lanka. It is difficult to attract entry level employees to tourism industry given many reasons. This study aims identifying barriers for potential employment for people in rural areas and it will facilitate human resource builders in tourism industry. As a rural area with pool of job seekers, Kotmale was selected for this study. The sample size has been determined by using stratified sampling method and convenience sampling method was used to select respondents. Primary data collected through a pre-tested structured questionnaire and secondary data were used for the study. Mixed methodology was employed to analyze data. The results revealed social considerations, recruitment process, skills development, progression pathways, cultural barriers and lack of infrastructure facilities are significant barriers for tourism employment in rural areas. It is recommended to address the above to make tourism employment attractive for rural job seekers.