In a notable advancement for vocational education in Bhutan, the newly established Serbithang Technical Training Institute (TTI) is rapidly becoming a beacon of opportunity for aspiring tradespeople. Located on a sprawling 6.77-acre site, the institute, funded by the Asian Development Bank (ADB) at a cost of Nu. 419.20 million, is a cutting-edge facility that is reshaping the landscape of technical education in the country.
Inside the expansive workshop of Serbithang TTI, a group of students, including 19-year-old Jigme Tenzin Rabgay, are immersing themselves in practical skills. Jigme, who was initially thwarted in his attempt to obtain an Australian visa after finishing Class X, is now channeling his energy into mastering refrigeration repair. His eyes are set on the future, with plans to reapply for the visa. “I will apply again,” he asserts confidently. “In Australia, you can make AUD 50 an hour fixing appliances.” However, should his plans to move abroad not materialize, Jigme is prepared to leverage his new skills locally by opening his own electrical shop, eyeing the promising opportunities in this field.
Another student, Jambay Dorji, joined the TTI after missing out on college placement. He appreciates the institute’s modern facilities, which represent a significant upgrade from the previous setup at the City Bus Services (CBS) office. “The new facilities offer a refreshing change and a more effective learning environment,” he says.
Serbithang TTI boasts a student body of 110, with a gender distribution of seven female and 103 male students. The institute provides a range of courses, including auto mechanics, panel beating, auto painting, refrigeration and air conditioning, and auto electrics. Plans are also underway to introduce new courses such as graphic design and heating, ventilation, and automotive technology.
In addition to Serbithang, other TTIs across Bhutan are also enhancing their training programs. At Khuruthang TTI, a new Computer Numerical Control (CNC) course has been launched, funded by the ADB. Johan Lorsson, the CNC Machinist Course Instructor, highlights the transformative power of CNC machining. “CNC machining allows you to create almost anything you can imagine, using programming and coding,” he explains. This technology is pivotal for producing precision parts required in hydropower projects, with Bhutan Hydropower Services Limited (BHSL) relying on CNC machines for their operations.
Pema Dendup, a 20-year-old CNC trainee, is particularly enthusiastic about his future. He was initially seeking employment when advised to gain relevant skills. Discovering the CNC course at Khuruthang TTI felt serendipitous. “It almost feels like fate that I got the chance to learn a course related to the works of BHSL,” he says. Pema, who is enjoying the programming and machine learning aspects of the course, aspires to work with BHSL in the future. The current batch of nine CNC students is expected to graduate early next year.
Meanwhile, at Samthang TTI, the introduction of driving simulators—funded by ADB—has revolutionized heavy vehicle training. This innovation provides a safer, more cost-effective method for learning vehicle operation. Previously, practical training required expensive and logistically challenging use of actual vehicles. Now, the simulator reduces costs significantly, with training expenses dropping from Nu 10,000 per week for fuel and Nu 40,000 for earthmovers to much lower figures.
Sonam Wangmo, Principal of Serbithang TTI, underscores the importance of ADB’s support in equipping the TTIs with state-of-the-art facilities and courses. “The ADB support has been crucial in equipping TTIs in the country with facilities and courses to provide valuable skills to Bhutanese youth,” she says.
The strides made by these institutes represent a significant leap forward in vocational training in Bhutan, opening new doors for the youth and equipping them with the skills needed for both local and international opportunities.
