After a six-year absence, the National Job Fair made a strong comeback in 2025, placing the spotlight firmly on one of Bhutan’s most pressing challenges: youth unemployment, which currently stands at 17.8 percent. The event has drawn widespread attention for its scale, ambition, and renewed sense of urgency in bridging the gap between education, skills, and the labour market.
The fair brings together government agencies, private employers, training institutions, and thousands of job seekers under one roof, creating a platform where opportunities and aspirations meet. More than 3,000 job seekers have registered, while over 200 employers are participating, collectively offering in excess of 2,500 vacancies across a range of sectors.
Speaking at the event, the Minister for Industry, Commerce and Employment underscored the government’s commitment to addressing unemployment through what he described as a “three gems approach,” which focuses on aligning education, skills development, and employment creation. The approach reflects a broader strategy to ensure that young people are not only qualified but also employable in a rapidly evolving economy.
The government has set an ambitious target of achieving a 97.2 percent employment rate by 2029, with a specific goal of reducing youth unemployment to below 10 percent. Progress is already visible. According to the ministry, more than 8,000 job placements have been facilitated to date, with the private sector accounting for nearly 80 percent of these opportunities—highlighting its growing role as a key driver of employment.
In a move to strengthen long-term workforce development, the National Career and Occupational Framework 2025 was also launched during the fair, beginning with the tourism and hospitality sector. The framework aims to standardise skills, clarify career pathways, and improve professional progression, particularly in sectors with high employment potential.
For many attendees, the fair represents more than just job listings—it offers hope, direction, and a renewed sense of possibility. As Bhutan works towards its employment goals, the return of the National Job Fair signals a concerted effort to turn policy into practice and ensure that young people are equipped, empowered, and employed.
