Heritage of Living Entity and Living Skills: Advancing Sustainability Goals 1 and 4 in Handloom Textiles

Handloom textiles in the Southern Province are a testament to the cultural legacy and traditional knowledge passed down through generations. With the continued practice of traditional design methods and techniques, these textiles stand as a ‘Living Heritage.’ This term captures the intangible cultural heritage of handloom textiles, encompassing traditions, knowledge, and skills inherited over time. The Textile Department of the Southern Province consistently motivates and encourages the skill development of handloom textile weavers. As a result, these weavers are constantly engaged with ‘Living Skills,’ showing a readiness to learn at all times. Recognizing the industry’s interconnectedness with societal facets, such as culture, environment, and economic growth, a holistic approach to promoting and achieving sustainability in the handloom textile sector. The Textile Department of the Southern Province adheres to the Sustainable Goals by following a Strategic Plan. This Strategic plan seeks to balance the requirements of the various elements of Sustainable Goals. The aim of the study is to identify how handloom textile weaving heritage prevails as a living entity and living skills in the Southern Province of Sri Lanka toward advancing Sustainability Goals 01 and 04. Despite the challenges posed by the current economic situation and administrative shortcomings, the Department and its management recognize and value the weavers and the broader workforce for their significant economic contributions. These weavers and textile designers are valued as the vital human capital of the industry. This chapter emphasizes the alignment with SDG 01, which focuses on enhancing people’s skills for improved livelihoods, and SDG 04, centered on Learning and Education. It underscores the importance of collaborating with Universities to leverage their educational resources and training for the weavers. This partnership also facilitates the dissemination of information to the broader local community. This research employed qualitative research methods. The Primary data was collected through participant observation and semi-structured interviews. The researchers directly observed Departmental documents to glean further information. Administrative Officers, Weavers, Coordinating Officers of the Department, and Instructors were interviewed to gain insights into the experiences, perspectives, and viewpoints of SGD 01, which is vital to nurturing people’s skills to attain a more prosperous and enriched life. SGD 04 focused on learning and education in the textiles industry, which has held a pivotal role in societies over the ages, offering a wealth of opportunities for exploration. Universities focusing on textiles can significantly impact the sector by offering free educational tools, training, and sharing expertise within the local community. Policymakers, academics, and government authorities will benefit from this study.