How Skills Development is the Key to Sustainable Growth and Social Inclusion
Bhutan’s aspirations for economic diversification, social inclusion, and sustainability rest on one foundational capability: a skilled workforce. Without the right training systems and learning infrastructure in place, even the most ambitious visions—like the Gelephu Mindfulness City (GMC)—will face serious barriers to implementation.
That’s why the transformation of Bhutan’s Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) system is emerging as a national priority. From education policy reform to workforce planning and international partnerships, the push to future-proof Bhutan’s human capital is gaining momentum—and Blue Poppy Ventures is helping to shape the path forward.
In October 2024, a series of high-level meetings between Bhutan’s Ministry of Education and Skills Development and Australian stakeholders sparked a number of initiatives. These include the repurposing of existing institutions, the design of short courses and micro-credentials, and proposals to bring global capability to local contexts through partnerships with Australian training providers.
One of the more innovative ideas on the table is to invite Australian Registered Training Organisations (RTOs) to “adopt” one of Bhutan’s 10 national institutes. In this model, Australian education providers—such as TAFESA, AIM, Ironwood Institute, or Quality Training College—would collaborate directly with Bhutanese partners to deliver accredited training aligned with local priorities in fields like construction, renewable energy, care, tourism, and food production.
Short courses in arts and crafts, makeup, textiles, and culinary skills are also being explored, particularly through seasonal programs such as Bhutan Summer Skills. These shorter pathways are designed to cater to youth, women, and regional communities looking to supplement income, explore self-employment, or contribute to emerging industries tied to the GMC and regional development.
A key part of this plan involves skills mapping and gap analysis, identifying current and future labour market needs. Blue Poppy Ventures is contributing strategic foresight and workforce planning expertise to support a more connected system where education pathways lead directly into employment, entrepreneurship, or further training.
Another critical area of reform is international alignment. Questions around mutual recognition of skills, national licensing in areas like energy and construction, and the potential for Bhutanese graduates to study or work in Australia under new visa frameworks are all under discussion. Engagements with key figures like the South Australian Training and Skills Commissioner are opening the door to streamlined partnerships that go beyond short-term exchange and into long-term capability development.
Funding options are being explored through the UN, ADB, and philanthropic partners. There is also potential for programs like the Australia Awards Fellowships to support Bhutanese education leaders and practitioners to undertake structured learning and observation in Australia, returning with the insights and tools to implement systemic change.
Blue Poppy Ventures believes that the TVET transformation must be inclusive, forward-thinking, and connected to economic growth strategies. It’s not just about supplying workers; it’s about equipping a generation to create value, solve problems, and lead their communities through change.
Done right, this transformation will do more than fill skills shortages. It will support Bhutan’s transition to a high-income economy, empower women and youth to participate fully in the workforce, and position the country as a hub for skills-based innovation in South and Southeast Asia.
Education that is practical, contextual, and globally relevant will underpin Bhutan’s success. Blue Poppy Ventures is proud to support this journey—bringing in global expertise while keeping local needs at the core.
Want to get involved in TVET partnerships or education projects in Bhutan? Reach out to wendy@wendyperry.com.au to explore collaboration opportunities.