𝐏𝐥𝐮𝐦𝐛𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐒𝐤𝐢𝐥𝐥𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐏𝐫𝐨𝐠𝐫𝐚𝐦 𝐏𝐫𝐨𝐦𝐨𝐭𝐞𝐬 𝐒𝐞𝐥𝐟-𝐑𝐞𝐥𝐢𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐞 𝐢𝐧 𝐑𝐮𝐫𝐚𝐥 𝐁𝐡𝐮𝐭𝐚𝐧

…𝑬𝒎𝒑𝒐𝒘𝒆𝒓𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒄𝒐𝒎𝒎𝒖𝒏𝒊𝒕𝒊𝒆𝒔 𝒊𝒏 𝒇𝒊𝒗𝒆 𝑫𝒛𝒐𝒏𝒈𝒌𝒉𝒂𝒈𝒔 𝒕𝒉𝒓𝒐𝒖𝒈𝒉 𝒑𝒓𝒂𝒄𝒕𝒊𝒄𝒂𝒍 𝒑𝒍𝒖𝒎𝒃𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒕𝒓𝒂𝒊𝒏𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒕𝒐 𝒓𝒆𝒅𝒖𝒄𝒆 𝒆𝒙𝒕𝒆𝒓𝒏𝒂𝒍 𝒅𝒆𝒑𝒆𝒏𝒅𝒆𝒏𝒄𝒚

By Tshering Yangden

A Plumbing Skilling Program, funded by the Department of Governance and Local Planning (DGLP) under the Department of Local Governance and Development Management (DLGDM), has been launched to enhance vocational skills and empower rural communities in Bhutan. Targeting five Dzongkhags such as Mongar, Lhuentse, Zhemgang, Pemagatshel, and Chhukha. The program trains participants from two Gewogs in each Dzongkhag.

In Lhuentse, participants from Gangzur and Jaray Gewogs are gaining hands-on experience in plumbing, learning essential skills like repairing and joining broken pipes. This initiative seeks to promote self-reliance by equipping locals with practical knowledge to manage plumbing issues without relying on external technicians. A total of 24 participants, 11 from Jaray Gewog and 13 from Gangzur Gewog, are taking part in the training.

“The program’s practical approach to solving everyday problems is invaluable,” said Tshewang Thinley, Gup of Gangzur Gewog.
“Participants can now manage common plumbing issues in their households and communities, reducing dependency on outside help,” he added.

Tshewang Thinley highlighted that the program not only addresses basic plumbing challenges but also opens up opportunities for participants to earn an income by assisting others. “Upon completion, we aim to empower villagers to strengthen their communities and promote sustainable livelihoods,” he added.

However, Kinzang Menjur, Gup of Jaray Gewog, noted that encouraging participation remains a challenge. “We had to explain the program’s benefits before people were willing to join. Budget constraints also previously hindered organizing such initiatives,” he said.

Kinzang Menjur also emphasized the long-term value of the program, saying, “Now, our local technicians will be capable of fixing plumbing issues, reducing reliance on external services.”
Participants, despite challenges, expressed enthusiasm for the training. Tenzin Wangmo, a 42-year-old participant, acknowledged the steep learning curve, particularly without prior experience. “Plumbing is not just about fixing pipes; it is about understanding water systems and using tools effectively,” she said.

“I am happy because I have gained skills that will help me save money and be independent,” she added.
Sangay Tenzin, another participant, praised the program but highlighted issues with accommodation. “Commuting from my Gewog is time-consuming, and living conditions here are not ideal,” he said. Despite this, Sangay Tenzin remains committed to acquiring new skills.

Trainer Sonam Dorji commended the participants’ dedication, noting that the program covers installation, maintenance, and repair of plumbing systems, including drainage, water supply, and fixtures. However, he acknowledged challenges, particularly for beginners and those facing accommodation difficulties.

Running from November 27 to December 8, the Plumbing Skilling Program is a significant step toward fostering self-sufficiency and economic development in rural Bhutan. By equipping locals with critical skills, the initiative not only empowers individuals but also strengthens entire communities.