Diploma in Tamil as an Additional Language
Semester 01: Spoken Tamil as an Additional Language
Sub Course Code	Name of the Sub Course	No. of Credits
DTAL11021	Sounds and Characters	02
DTAL11102	Listening and Speech	10
DTAL11033	Reading and Writing – Basic	03
Total Credits		15
Semester 02: Written Tamil as an Additional Language
DTAL12091	Reading and Writing – Advanced	09
DTAL12022	Listening and Speech – Advanced	02
DTAL12033	Translation [Tamil-Sinhala, Sinhala-Tamil]	03
DTAL12014	Tamil Literature – Basic	01
Total Credits		15
Diploma in Tamil as an Additional Language (DTAL)		30

No person shall be eligible to be admitted to the DTAL Program of study leading to the Diploma, unless such person satisfies the following requirements: –

(a) i. has passed GCE (A/L) Examination in four (4) subjects prior to year 2000 in one and the same sitting
or
ii. has passed GCE (A/L) Examination in three (3) subjects after year 2000 in one and the same sitting
or
iii. has passed GCE (O/L) Examination in six (06) subjects with three (03) credit passes in one and the same sitting and has accredited prior learning followed by a relevant program of study equivalent to a minimum of 30 credits or has at least one (01) year of work experience which is equivalent to 30 credits as an employee or a self-employed person after having the above academic qualification
and
(b) has demonstrated competence in the relevant field and potential for future career development
and
(c) has a good working knowledge of the languages of instruction of the DTAL Program.

Qualification Holders of the Diploma in Tamil as an Additional Language will develop the following key attributes and learning outcomes, aligning with SLQF Level 03 expectations:

1. Effective Communication Skills in Tamil

• Demonstrate the ability to understand and use Tamil sounds, characters, and vocabulary in everyday communication.
• Engage in basic and intermediate-level conversations, expressing ideas clearly in spoken Tamil.
• Apply listening and speaking skills in diverse professional and social contexts.

2. Proficiency in Reading and Writing

• Read and comprehend a range of written texts in Tamil, from basic to advanced levels.
• Compose grammatically correct and meaningful written content in Tamil.
• Utilize Tamil script effectively in both formal and informal settings.

3. Cross-Linguistic Competence

• Translate basic content accurately between Tamil and Sinhala, and vice versa.
• Understand cultural and contextual nuances in both languages.
• Apply translation skills in practical situations such as public service, education, and tourism.

4. Literary and Cultural Awareness

• Demonstrate an introductory understanding of Tamil literature and its cultural significance.
• Appreciate linguistic diversity and contribute to cultural integration.
• Reflect on the role of Tamil in Sri Lanka’s multilingual identity and national unity.

5. Lifelong Learning and Social Responsibility

• Develop self-confidence in using Tamil as a second language for professional advancement and community engagement.
• Support the implementation of the Official Language Policy through active language use.
• Uphold values of inclusiveness, mutual respect, and national development through multilingual competence.

This diploma program is ideal for individuals from diverse backgrounds who are eager to enhance their Tamil language proficiency for personal, professional, or national development. It is especially suited for,

• Professionals and Government Employees aiming to meet official language policy requirements and serve the public more effectively.
• School Teachers who wish to foster inclusive classrooms and better engage with Tamil-speaking students and parents.
• Entrepreneurs and Business Owners looking to expand their reach within Tamil-speaking communities.
• Tourist Guides and Employees of Hospitality Sector catering to Tamil-speaking local and international tourists.
• Civic-minded Individuals committed to national harmony, social integration, and cross-cultural understanding.

Whether your goal is career advancement, improved communication, or contributing to national unity, this program provides the essential linguistic skills and cultural insights needed to thrive in a multilingual society.