Diploma in Tamil as an Additional Language (DTAL)

The Diploma in Tamil as an Additional Language is designed to build practical spoken and written Tamil skills for communication in professional, educational, and social environments. This programme supports national integration and enhances service delivery in Sri Lanka’s multilingual society.

Commenced in 2007, the programme has evolved into a structured and academically rigorous qualification aligned with national standards. Nearly 10,000 learners have successfully completed the programme, strengthening language competence across both public and private sectors.

The qualification is formally recognised by the Ministry of Justice, Public Administration, Home Affairs, Provincial Councils, Local Government, and Labour. Holders of this diploma may receive exemptions from Tamil language proficiency requirements under the Official Language Policy.

Programme Overview

• Duration of the programme - 01 year
• Total credit value - 30 credits
• Academic level - Sri Lanka Qualification Framework (SLQF Level 03)
• Medium of instruction - Sinhala and Tamil
• Study mode - Weekend onsite learning with compulsory monthly online sessions

Who Should Apply

This programme is suitable for individuals who wish to improve Tamil language proficiency for employment, education, or community engagement. It is particularly relevant for those working in multilingual environments where communication skills are essential.

• Professionals and government employees seeking to meet official language policy requirements
• Teachers aiming to communicate effectively with Tamil-speaking students and parents
• Entrepreneurs and business owners expanding services to Tamil-speaking communities
• Tourism and hospitality sector employees interacting with diverse clients
• Individuals committed to national harmony and cross-cultural understanding

Programme Structure

The curriculum is organised into two academic semesters that progressively develop spoken, written, and translation skills in Tamil. The programme combines language fundamentals with practical communication and cultural awareness.

Semester 01 - Spoken Tamil as an Additional Language

• DTAL11021 - Sounds and Characters - 02 credits
• DTAL11102 - Listening and Speech - 10 credits
• DTAL11033 - Reading and Writing - Basic - 03 credits
• Total semester credits - 15

Semester 02 - Written Tamil as an Additional Language

• DTAL12091 - Reading and Writing - Advanced - 09 credits
• DTAL12022 - Listening and Speech - Advanced - 02 credits
• DTAL12033 - Translation - Tamil-Sinhala and Sinhala-Tamil - 03 credits
• DTAL12014 - Tamil Literature - Basic - 01 credit
• Total semester credits - 15

Entry Requirements

Applicants must meet one of the following academic qualifications and demonstrate the ability to successfully engage in language learning at diploma level.

• Passed GCE (A/L) Examination in four subjects prior to year 2000 in one and the same sitting
• Passed GCE (A/L) Examination in three subjects after year 2000 in one and the same sitting
• Passed GCE (O/L) Examination in six subjects with three credit passes in one and the same sitting and accredited prior learning equivalent to a minimum of 30 credits
• Passed GCE (O/L) Examination in six subjects with three credit passes and at least one year of relevant work experience equivalent to 30 credits
• Demonstrated competence in the relevant field and potential for future career development
• Good working knowledge of the languages of instruction of the programme

Learning Outcomes and Graduate Attributes

Upon successful completion, graduates will demonstrate measurable language competence aligned with SLQF Level 03 expectations. The programme emphasises communication, literacy, cultural awareness, and responsible citizenship in a multilingual society.

• Communicate confidently using Tamil sounds, vocabulary, and sentence structures in everyday situations
• Participate in basic and intermediate conversations with clarity and accuracy
• Apply listening and speaking skills in professional and community settings
• Read and understand written Tamil texts ranging from basic to advanced levels
• Write grammatically correct and meaningful content using appropriate Tamil script
• Translate simple information accurately between Tamil and Sinhala
• Recognise cultural and contextual nuances when communicating across languages
• Demonstrate introductory knowledge of Tamil literature and cultural traditions
• Support inclusive communication and national unity through multilingual competence
• Develop confidence to use Tamil for career progression and public engagement

Career and Professional Benefits

Graduates gain practical language skills that enhance employability and professional effectiveness in multilingual workplaces. The qualification supports communication in government services, education, tourism, customer service, and community development sectors.

• Improved communication with Tamil-speaking colleagues, clients, and communities
• Enhanced eligibility for public sector roles requiring language competence
• Greater confidence in multicultural professional environments
• Ability to contribute to inclusive service delivery and community engagement
• Foundation for further language study and lifelong learning

Send Inquiry

Your inquiry will be sent directly to the institute. A copy will also be emailed to you for your records.