Inspired by His Majesty’s visionary call for lifelong learning which reminds us that education extends beyond the classroom into a journey of continuous growth and empowerment, the second National Level Community Learning Center Exhibition was held yesterday in Punakha.
The event brought together 58 learners and instructors from 29 Community Learning Centers (CLCs) to showcase various vocational skills contributing to community development and empowerment. A variety of products including tailor-made garments, wooden crafts, hand-woven textiles, knitted items and embroidered products as well as religious items and souvenirs were on display.
A panel of judges evaluated the event based on creativity, quality, innovation, learner presentations, community engagement and sustainability. In alignment with the CLC’s mission to foster lifelong learning and community development, the winners were recognised for their outstanding contributions.
Rangjung CLC in Trashigang took home the prestigious Outstanding Exhibition Award with a cash prize of Nu.100,000. Rinchen Kuenphen CLC in Thimphu and Gasa CLC received the Excellent Exhibition Award, each accompanied by a cash prize of Nu.65,000. Other notable winners including Dorokha CLC in Samtse, S/Jongkhar Thromde CLC, Gyalpoizhing CLC in Mongar, Trashi Yangtse CLC, and Hongtsho CLC in Thimphu earned the Commendable Exhibition Award with a cash prize of Nu.35,000. All participants were also given certificates of participation along with cash prizes recognising their hard work and dedication.
The exhibition highlighted the success of the CLC’s vocational training programs which offer a range of skills from tailoring and baking to carpentry. These programs have played a crucial role in empowering individuals, particularly women helping them establish businesses and achieve financial independence.
For many, the training has paved the way for entrepreneurship. One such success story is Tshering Choden, a graduate from Dorokha CLC who opened her tailoring shop in Samtse after completing her training in 2022. Similarly, Tshering Yangzom, another graduate from Dorokha, now runs a home-based bakery living a productive life.
Kezang Lhadeb, a 2023 graduate expressed her gratitude for the training which has provided her with a stable source of income through her tailoring business in Jungshina, Thimphu. These success stories are a testament to the impact of the CLC program which not only equips individuals with vocational skills but also promotes empowerment and self-sufficiency.
The exhibition was graced by the Hon’ble Lyonpo for Education and Skills Development along with officials from the Korean National Commission for UNESCO (유네스코한국위원회 – KNCU). It was also attended by the BQPCA Director, DEP Director, DEOs, TEOs and principals along with officials from the Ministry and Dzongkhag.
Organised by the Ministry’s Adult and Higher Education Division and the Bhutan National Commission for U N E S C O with funding support from KNCU under the Bridge Bhutan Project 2020-2025, the event underscored the importance of providing lifelong learning opportunities to all.
The Ministry launched the CLC initiative to provide a range of vocational skills to non-formal education graduates promoting lifelong learning and enabling them to lead meaningful lives. Today, the CLCs are vital spaces where people from all walks of life can access practical skills training to enhance their quality of life.
Additional pictures online at https://www.facebook.com/SherigBhutan/posts/1142499304583114
