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# Bhutan Foundation

Serving the people of Bhutan in living and sharing the principle of Gross National Happiness.

## Sitemaps

- [XML Sitemap](https://www.bhutanfound.org/sitemap.xml): Contains all public & indexable URLs for this website.

## Posts

- [Field Notes from Gaytala](https://www.bhutanfound.org/field-notes-from-gaytala/) - Beauty, Resilience, and Hope in Bhutan’s Highlands Many of the Bhutan Foundation’s programs reach communities far from roads, where people have lived closely with nature for generations. Through the Small Grants Program, we travelled to Gaytala in the Dagala highlands to learn about the challenges facing yak-herding families and explore community-led opportunities to strengthen livelihoods while
- [Thirty-One Years on the Frontline](https://www.bhutanfound.org/thirty-one-years-on-the-frontline/) - For 31 years, Dorji Wangchuk has walked Bhutan’s forests with a responsibility that extends far beyond protecting trees and wildlife. Now 56, he has spent more than two decades serving in Royal Manas National Park. To Dorji, being a ranger means serving both people and nature: helping communities access natural resources responsibly while safeguarding Bhutan’s
- [Advancing Pangolin Conservation in Bhutan](https://www.bhutanfound.org/advancing-pangolin-conservation-in-bhutan/) - Bhutan is home to two pangolin species: the Critically Endangered Chinese pangolin (Manis pentadactyla) and the Endangered Indian pangolin (Manis crassicaudata). These shy and nocturnal mammals play a crucial role in maintaining our ecosystem by controlling insect populations. Sadly, they are among the most trafficked animals globally and face threats from illegal hunting, wildlife trade,
- [Empowering Teachers, Expanding Opportunities for Learners](https://www.bhutanfound.org/empowering-teachers-expanding-opportunities-for-learners/) - As part of the Multimedia Functional Program for Children with Diverse Abilities, the Bhutan Foundation, in collaboration with the Ministry of Education and Skills Development and the Australian High Commission, is supporting teacher capacity-building sessions to strengthen multimedia and technical skills in inclusive education. Conducted by Athang Learning Institute, the training provides teachers with practical
- [Building Inclusive Learning Spaces for Children with Diverse Abilities at Tendruk Central School](https://www.bhutanfound.org/building-inclusive-learning-spaces-for-children-with-diverse-abilities-at-tendruk-central-school/) - Every child deserves the chance to learn in a safe, supportive, and inclusive environment. Yet for many children with diverse abilities, access to appropriate learning spaces and specialized support remains a challenge. At Tendruk Central School, teachers, parents, and the community have spent years working tirelessly to change that reality. Over time, the school has
- [Ten Proposals Selected for Small Grants 2026](https://www.bhutanfound.org/ten-proposals-selected-for-small-grants-2026/) - We are pleased to announce the selected proposals for the Bhutan Foundation Small Grants Program 2026–2027 cycle. Following a competitive review process, 10 projects have been selected from a strong pool of proposals submitted by civil society organizations, community-based organizations and initiatives across Bhutan. We extend our sincere appreciation to all applicants for the time,
- [Making Stories Inclusive for Every Child](https://www.bhutanfound.org/making-stories-inclusive-for-every-child/) - Stories and books carry both wonder and wisdom. They shape childhood, spark imagination, and help children make sense of the world around them. Yet for many children with diverse abilities, books often remain inaccessible because they are not designed with inclusion in mind. To help address this gap, the Phensem Parent Support Group, in partnership
- [Harnessing Satellite Technology to Advance Bhutan’s Climate and Environmental Goals](https://www.bhutanfound.org/harnessing-satellite-technology-to-advance-bhutans-climate-and-environmental-goals/) - A two-day workshop brought together government agencies, technical experts, and development partners to explore how Planet satellite data and imagery can support Bhutan’s climate and environmental priorities. Organized by the Bhutan Foundation in collaboration with the National Land Commission Secretariat (NLCS), and supported by Planet Labs PBC, the workshop introduced advanced earth observation tools and
- [Multimedia Functional Program Launched in Changangkha School](https://www.bhutanfound.org/multimedia-functional-program-launched-in-changangkha-school/) - The Bhutan Foundation, in partnership with the Australian High Commission, has launched a new Multimedia Functional Program at Changangkha Middle Secondary School, opening new pathways for students with special needs to build practical, market-relevant skills for independent and meaningful futures. The initiative marks an important step in strengthening inclusive and skills-based education in Bhutan. The
- [Vacancy Announcement for Senior/Program Officer](https://www.bhutanfound.org/vacancy-announcement-for-senior-program-officer/) - The Bhutan Foundation Office in Thimphu is pleased to announce the vacancy for the post of one Senior/Program Officer to be based in Thimphu Office. Designation: Senior/Program OfficerNumber of slot: 1 (one)Qualification: Bachelor's Degree in Developmental studies, administration, international relations, or science.Experience: A minimum of 3 to 7 years experience in related fieldPlace of posting:
- [Million Tree Program to Help Bhutan Maintain Carbon Negative Status](https://www.bhutanfound.org/million-tree-program-to-help-bhutan-maintain-carbon-negative-status/) - By Kinga Wangdi The Million-Tree Program was launched in Thimphu, Bhutan in April, 2021. The program aims to promote ecological diversity through the restoration of over 3,000 acres of degraded forest and the rehabilitation of 2,000 acres of fallow farmland. To enhance the economic productivity of this uncultivated land, the plantation program was initiated in
- [One Million Trees to Help Restore Forests and Farmland](https://www.bhutanfound.org/one-million-trees-to-help-restore-forests-and-farmland/) - Bhutan is highly vulnerable to the adverse effects of climate change due to its location in the fragile mountainous ecosystem and has strong sensitivities to environmental changes. In particular, Bhutan is increasingly challenged with threats from climate hazards and extreme events such as flash floods, glacial lake outbursts, floods, windstorms, forest fires, landslides, and more.
- [Nursery Grows Seedlings for a Million Tree Project](https://www.bhutanfound.org/nursery-grows-seedlings-for-a-million-tree-project/) - Following the launch of a million-tree initiative in April 2021 in Thimphu, the Bhutan Ecological Society (BES) established the sub-tropical nursery to produce saplings for high-value fruit and timber trees species in Gelephu. The nursery has grown over 10,300 seedlings since its establishment in 2021, and many more are still in their germination stage. To
- [Million Tree Project Launched](https://www.bhutanfound.org/million-tree-project-launched/) - Million Tree Project Launched in collaboration with Bhutan Ecological Society and Ministry of Agriculture and Forests. One of our partners, the Bhutan Ecological Society (BES), launched the Million Trees Project yesterday in Kabisa, Thimphu. The event was graced by Her Royal Highness Ashi Chimi Yangzom Wangchuck, the Royal Patron of BES, and Lyonpo Yeshey Penjor,
- [Sacred Knowledge, Modern Tools: Safeguarding Bhutan’s Sacred Antiquities](https://www.bhutanfound.org/sacred-knowledge-modern-tools-safeguarding-bhutans-sacred-antiquities/) - Monks in Bhutan are the custodians of many sacred artifacts of profound national significance found in more than 2000 monasteries, dzongs, and temples in Bhutan. These artifacts are Bhutan’s unique cultural, historical, and spiritual identity. Yet, they remain vulnerable to natural disasters, theft, fire, and gradual deterioration. Recognizing these threats, the Bhutan Foundation, in collaboration
- [Commemorating 20th Anniversary of Earth Hour](https://www.bhutanfound.org/commemorating-20th-anniversary-of-earth-hour/) - Today, we joined our conservation partners Bhutan Ecological Society, Bhutan for Life, Bhutan Trust Fund, and WWF Bhutan to mark the 20th anniversary of EarthHour at Gelephu Mindfulness City (GMC). This collective effort reflects a shared commitment to protecting Bhutan’s natural heritage and underscores the power of collaboration in addressing urgent environmental challenges—especially in landscapes
- [Strengthening Partnerships Through Transparency and Accountability](https://www.bhutanfound.org/strengthening-partnerships-through-transparency-and-accountability/) - For many years, the Bhutan Foundation has worked closely with stakeholders, partners, and agencies to facilitate financial grants across a wide range of project activities. The Foundation has also supported partners in channeling their own funds from the United States to Bhutan—helping translate resources into meaningful impact on the ground. As administrative and governance requirements
- [Connecting Farmers, Markets, and Innovation for a Food-Secure Bhutan](https://www.bhutanfound.org/connecting-farmers-markets-and-innovation-for-a-food-secure-bhutan/) - The Bhutan Foundation, in collaboration with the Department of Agricultural Marketing and Cooperatives (DAMC) under the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock, convened a two-day workshop on Knowledge and Experience Exchange for Farmer Cooperatives and Agri-Entrepreneurs in Thimphu on 19–20 March 2026. Bringing together cooperative members, agri-entrepreneurs, government agencies, and development partners, the workshop created a
- [Restoring Pastures, Reviving Livelihoods in Gogona](https://www.bhutanfound.org/restoring-pastures-reviving-livelihoods-in-gogona/) - In Bhutan, rural life has long been shaped by smallholder farming—where families depend on the land, their livestock, and generations of knowledge to sustain their livelihoods. These mixed farming systems, rooted in tradition, continue to nourish communities and preserve a way of life deeply connected to nature. As demand for livestock-based food grows, the Royal
- [Vacancy Announcement](https://www.bhutanfound.org/vacancy-announcement-for-communications-events-officer/) - Job: Communications & Events Officer Location: Washington, DC area Position Type: Full-time (Only applications sent to hr@bhutanfound.org with the subject line: Communications & Events Officer Application will be reviewed) The Bhutan Foundation is a U.S. nonprofit dedicated to supporting the people of Bhutan in protecting their environment, preserving culture, strengthening democratic institutions, and expanding opportunity
- [Volunteering in Gelephu Mindfulness City](https://www.bhutanfound.org/volunteering-in-gelephu-mindfulness-city/) - Standing among thousands of volunteers during the 5th GMC Volunteer Program in Gelephu, our team felt a deep sense of gratitude and humility. Participating in the Gelephu Mindfulness City (GMC) volunteering program as part of the Bhutan Foundation was more than an opportunity to serve—it was a meaningful moment to reflect on what it means
- [Celebrating Losar and 40 Years of Partnership - San Francisco](https://www.bhutanfound.org/celebrating-losar-and-40-years-of-partnership-san-francisco/) - Earlier this month, more than 150 friends of Bhutan gathered in the Salesforce Tower to celebrate Losar, the Bhutanese New Year, and the Bhutan Foundation’s 40th Anniversary. It was our largest event to date filled with friendship, reflection, and a shared love for Bhutan. As you’ll see in the photos below, the celebration reflected the
- [Bringing Traditional Healing to Elderly Monks in Punakha](https://www.bhutanfound.org/bringing-traditional-healing-to-elderly-monks-in-punakha/) - The National Centre for Traditional Medicine Services (NCTMS), with support from the Bhutan Foundation, conducted a three-day Elderly Traditional Medicine Health Camp from 2–4 March 2026 at Goensho Kaepeling (Dratshang Elderly Centre) in Tsochasa, Punakha District. The camp served more than 50 senior monks under the care of the Zhung Dratshang. As part of NCTMS’s quarterly outreach initiative, the camp focused on
- [Bhutan Foundation Small Grants Program 2026–2027 | Call for Proposals](https://www.bhutanfound.org/bhutan-foundation-small-grants-program-2026-2027-call-for-proposals/) - Are you a part of a Civil Society Organization or Community-based Organization in Bhutan with a vision for sustainable development and innovation? The Bhutan Foundation invites you to apply for our 2026 Small Grants Program. The program is aimed at supporting small-scale, innovative, and impactful projects with measurable results across Bhutan. Guideline for Small Grants
- [The Future of Beekeeping in Rural Bhutan](https://www.bhutanfound.org/the-future-of-beekeeping-in-rural-bhutan/) - In Chhumig Gewog of Bumthang, a high-altitude region known for sheep rearing and seasonal Cordyceps collection, livelihoods depend heavily on agriculture and livestock. For 15 women farmers from Zhangye, Gaytsa, and Phurjoen villages, beekeeping has long been part of that landscape. But until recently, it followed traditional methods that were labor-intensive and limited. Harvesting honey
- [Advancing Traditional Medicine for National Wellbeing](https://www.bhutanfound.org/advancing-traditional-medicine-for-national-wellbeing/) - Inauguration of the National Center for Traditional Medicine Services, Launch of the National Traditional Medicine Strategy and Action Plan (2025–2034), and Signing of Grant Agreement between the Ministry of Health and the Bhutan Foundation On 28 November 2025, the Ministry of Health marked a significant milestone for Bhutan’s Traditional Medicine System with the formal inauguration
- [From Fallen Leaves to New Futures: Phurpa Dorji’s Story](https://www.bhutanfound.org/from-fallen-leaves-to-new-futures-phurpa-dorjis-story/) - “I never thought fallen leaves could change our lives.” Phurpa Dorji, 43, stands in Langchenphug Gewog, a remote community in southern Bhutan where areca nut palms grow in abundance. Once an electrician, Phurpa is now a RYPME (Rural Youth Project Management Enterprise) member leader of the Samjong Cooperative Initiative, representing Langchenphug Gewog. Through Samjong, he
- [From the Field: Strengthening Musk Deer Conservation through Innovative Research](https://www.bhutanfound.org/from-the-field-strengthening-musk-deer-conservation-through-innovative-research/) - The fragile montane ecosystems of the Himalaya are home to unique assemblages of threatened flora and fauna, including the endangered musk deer (Moschus spp.). As a selective browser and a key prey species for apex predators such as the snow leopard (Panthera uncia), the musk deer plays a crucial role in shaping understory vegetation and
- [Conserving Bhutan’s ‘Bitter Gold’: Micropropagation Research on Swertia chirayita](https://www.bhutanfound.org/conserving-bhutans-bitter-gold-micropropagation-research-on-swertia-chirayita/) - The temperate forests of the Himalayas are known to harbor unique assemblages of flora and fauna, including the threatened medicinal herb Swertia chirayita. Locally known in Bhutan as Ja-tig or Khalu, this "bitter gold" is one of the most important herbs in traditional Sowa Rigpa medicine and a vital source of income for rural communities. However, the survival of this species is under severe
- [Thank You and Happy Holidays!](https://www.bhutanfound.org/thank-you-and-happy-holidays-2/) - As we come to the close of the year, we extend our heartfelt thanks to our donors, supporters, partners, stakeholders, and well-wishers for standing with us every step of the way. Your generosity has helped strengthen highland communities, protect snow leopards, expand inclusive education, empower local leaders, preserve and promote traditional medicine, and improve food
- [Strengthening Bhutan’s Sowa Rigpa Tradition](https://www.bhutanfound.org/strengthening-bhutans-sowa-rigpa-tradition/) - As part of its continued support to Bhutan’s Traditional Medicine Services, the Bhutan Foundation convened a one-day brainstorming session focused on assessing the current status and future direction of the country’s medicinal plant resources—an essential foundation of the Sowa Rigpa healing tradition. The session brought together a diverse group of experts and partners, including representatives
- [His Majesty Confers the National Order of Merit (Gold) to the Hoch and Goelet Families](https://www.bhutanfound.org/his-majesty-confers-the-national-order-of-merit-gold-to-the-hoch-and-goelet-families/) - As Bhutan joyfully celebrated its 118th National Day, the Bhutan Foundation was deeply honored to stand with the people of Bumthang in the sacred presence of His Majesty The King, His Majesty the Fourth Druk Gyalpo, Her Majesty The Gyaltsuen, and Their Royal Highnesses the Gyalseys and the Gyalsem. Joining the nation on this historic
- [National Disability Conference 2025: Advancing Inclusive Policies and Systems](https://www.bhutanfound.org/national-disability-conference-2025-advancing-inclusive-policies-and-systems/) - The National Disability Conference 2025 was convened in Paro on 3 December, aligning with the International Day for Persons with Disabilities and its global theme, “Fostering disability-inclusive societies for advancing social progress.” The event brought together national and international stakeholders to reflect on Bhutan’s progress and chart pathways toward stronger, more inclusive systems. The conference
- [Bhutan’s First Disability-Made Product Outlet, Dra=Nyam, Launched in Paro](https://www.bhutanfound.org/bhutans-first-disability-made-product-outlet-dranyam-launched-in-paro/) - Coinciding with the International Day for Persons with Disabilities on 3rd December 2025, the Bhutan Foundation and the Disabled People’s Organization of Bhutan (DPOB) officially launched Dra=Nyam, the country’s first dedicated outlet showcasing products made by persons with disabilities. The launch took place alongside the National Disability Conference 2025, bringing together government agencies, civil society
- [Her Majesty Gyalyum Tseyring Pem Wangchuck Inaugurates Restored Thimphu Basketball Center](https://www.bhutanfound.org/her-majesty-gyalyum-tseyring-pem-wangchuck-inaugurates-restored-thimphu-basketball-center/) - The Basketball Federation of Bhutan, in partnership with the Bhutan Foundation, inaugurated the restored Thimphu Basketball Center today, reviving Bhutan’s first and most iconic indoor basketball facility. Built in 1976 and closely linked to the legacy of His Majesty the Fourth King Jigme Singye Wangchuck, the court has long been a cornerstone of youth and
- [The Return of Guru Tshen Gyed Slates](https://www.bhutanfound.org/the-return-of-guru-tshen-gyed-slates/) - Bhutanese slate carving is part of the 13 arts and crafts (zorig chusum) of Bhutan. One fine example of this is demonstrated in a set of intrinsic slate carvings depicting the eight manifestations of Guru Rinpoche, or Guru Tshen Gyed, and one of Guru Rinpoche. Housed overseas in a private collection for over 50 years,
- [Power Tillers Distributed to Boost Agricultural Productivity in Zhemgang](https://www.bhutanfound.org/power-tillers-distributed-to-boost-agricultural-productivity-in-zhemgang/) - Smallholder farmers play a vital role in ensuring local food security. However, challenges such as water scarcity, labour shortages, limited market access, and inadequate modern farming equipment continue to constrain agricultural productivity and growth. To help address the issue of labour shortages, the Bhutan Foundation, in partnership with the Zhemgang District Administration, has supported eight
- [Empowering Smallholder Farmers in Bhutan: Mini-Power Tillers for Lead Farmers](https://www.bhutanfound.org/empowering-smallholder-farmers-in-bhutan-mini-power-tillers-for-lead-farmers/) - Smallholder farmers in Samdrup Jongkhar district play a crucial role in local food security. However, water scarcity, labor shortages, and insufficient modern farming equipment hinder agriculture productivity and growth. To address the pressing issue of labor shortages, the Bhutan Foundation, in collaboration with the Samdrup Jongkhar Initiative, supported ten mini tillers on a cost-sharing basis to
- [Renewing the Bhutan Foundation- Bruce Bunting Scholarship](https://www.bhutanfound.org/renewing-the-bhutan-foundation-bruce-bunting-scholarship/) - Our mission is to support the people of Bhutan in reaching their full potential by developing local capacity. In alignment with this mission, and in honor of the Foundation’s founder, Dr. Bruce Bunting, we launched the ‘Bhutan Foundation - Bruce Bunting Scholarship’ in 2020. This was made possible through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with
- [World Pangolin Day](https://www.bhutanfound.org/world-pangolin-day/) - In Bhutan, Pangolins are among the least studied terrestrial animals, with limited information on their distribution and conservation threats. Previous camera trap studies focused on other terrestrial mammals have recorded the critically endangered Chinese pangolin (Manis pentadactyla) presence in the Royal Manas National Park (RMNP), but in-depth studies remain scarce. The key conservation challenges include
- [Project Mikhung 2.0: Empowering Local Leaders and Communities through GNH-Based Participatory Planning](https://www.bhutanfound.org/project-mikhung-2-0-empowering-local-leaders-and-communities-through-gnh-based-participatory-planning/) - Tsirang District recently hosted a series of workshops under Project Mikhung 2.0, an initiative implemented by the Bhutan Centre for Media and Democracy (BCMD) to strengthen inclusive and participatory planning at the local government level. The project aims to enhance the capacity of local leaders and empower citizens to contribute meaningfully to community development through
- [Field Notes: Message from the Mountains](https://www.bhutanfound.org/field-notes-message-from-the-mountains/) - At the foot of Jomolhari, the sacred “Mountain of the Goddess Jomo,” I once again joined the highlanders to celebrate the Jomolhari Mountain Festival, a living tribute to the harmony between people and the elusive snow leopard. Now in its 11th year, this annual gathering held on October 14–15 continues to bring together communities, travelers,
- [Innovate AT: Empowering Inclusive Innovation in Bhutan](https://www.bhutanfound.org/innovateat-empowering-inclusive-innovation-in-bhutan/) - Locally Designed Assistive Devices Handed Over to Schools to Support Inclusive Learning Assistive Technology (AT) is transforming how children with diverse abilities learn, interact, and thrive. Often misunderstood as high-tech equipment meant only for specific disabilities, AT can be as simple—and powerful—as a pencil gripper, cup holder, or adaptive classroom chair. These everyday tools can
- [The 11th Jomolhari Mountain Festival Celebrates Culture and Conservation](https://www.bhutanfound.org/the-11th-jomolhari-mountain-festival-celebrates-culture-and-conservation/) - Amidst the breathtaking landscapes of Dangochang, at the base of the majestic Jomolhari, communities from Soe, Nubi, Yaksa, and Lingzhi came together to celebrate the 11th Jomolhari Mountain Festival — a vibrant tribute to Bhutan’s rich highland culture and enduring commitment to conservation. The festival grounds came alive with the sound of traditional songs, spirited
- [Living with the Snow Leopard: Supporting Highland Communities and Protecting Bhutan’s Alpine Biodiversity](https://www.bhutanfound.org/living-with-the-snow-leopard-supporting-highland-communities-and-protecting-bhutans-alpine-biodiversity/) - In the remote northern alpine ecosystems of Bhutan, the highland communities of Soe and Yaksa have shared their mountains with the elusive snow leopard for generations. For these nomadic herders, yaks are more than livestock —they are the foundation of their livelihoods. But life in the high mountains is not without challenges. Predation, particularly of
- [Bruce Bunting Scholarship Recipients](https://www.bhutanfound.org/bruce-bunting-scholarship-recipients/) - The Bruce Bunting Scholarship, established in 2020, supports Bhutanese professionals from both government and civil society to pursue higher studies in fields related to conservation and natural resource management. Since its inception, the program has supported six scholars to date. This year, we are pleased to announce the 2025 recipients of the Scholarship are Mr.
- [Small Grants Program Grant Signing, 2025](https://www.bhutanfound.org/small-grants-program-grant-signing-2025/) - We’ve officially signed the Grant Agreements for our Small Grants Program 2025! The Bhutan Foundation’s Small Grants Program plays a vital role in nurturing grassroots initiatives that create real, lasting change across Bhutan. Designed to be responsive, flexible, locally driven, and accessible, this program empowers community leaders, educators, innovators, and civil society groups to lead
- [Scam Alert!](https://www.bhutanfound.org/scam-alert/) - 🚨 Scam Alert! 🚨 False information is being circulated claiming student scholarship support in affiliation with the Bhutan Foundation and the Royal Government of Bhutan. ⚠️ The Bhutan Foundation has no affiliation with such programs and will not be responsible for any losses or claims. Please verify directly with official sources before engaging. Your caution
- [Lessons from Bhutan's Response to COVID-19](https://www.bhutanfound.org/lessons-from-bhutans-response-to-covid-19/) - As the situation around COVID-19 develops around the world, we’re seeing story after story of growing challenges and the heroic people in our health sectors who are rising to meet those challenges. We at the Bhutan Foundation wanted to take a moment to recognize the speed, compassion, and consideration that His Majesty the King and
- [2025 SGP Selected Projects](https://www.bhutanfound.org/2025-sgp-selected-projects/) - We’re excited to announce the selected proposals for the Small Grants Program 2025–2026! From a remarkable pool of 61 community-centered proposals from across Bhutan, 8 projects have been selected for support. The grantees include: Beethang Aumtshu Throedhen Tshogpa- Empowering Women through Sustainable Production of Local Jangbali and Puta Noodles. Samjong Cooperatives- Enhancing Value Addition, Packaging,
- [Launch of the Promoting Ecological and Community Engagement for Snow Leopard Conservation project](https://www.bhutanfound.org/launch-of-the-promoting-ecological-and-community-engagement-for-snow-leopard-conservation-project/) - The Promoting Ecological and Community Engagement (PEaCE) for Snow Leopard Conservation project launched today in collaboration with the Royal Government of Bhutan. The project will be implemented by the Department of Forest and Park Services, MoENR and Thimphu District. Designed to strengthen snow leopard conservation, the PEaCE project aims to address the growing human-snow leopard
- [Empowering Smallholder Farmers and Strengthening Rural Communities in Bhutan](https://www.bhutanfound.org/empowering-smallholder-farmers-and-strengthening-rural-communities-in-bhutan/) - Agriculture is vital to Bhutan’s economy, employing 43.5% of the workforce. However, smallholder farmers face challenges such as rural-urban migration, an aging population, and climate change, threatening food security. To address these issues, Bhutan’s 13th Five-Year Plan prioritizes strengthening smallholder farmers’ resilience and boosting agriculture productivity. To support this, the Bhutan Foundation in collaboration with
- [Honoring Ambassador Frank G. Wisner](https://www.bhutanfound.org/honoring-ambassador-frank-g-wisner/) - Today, we honor the extraordinary life and enduring legacy of Ambassador Frank G. Wisner—a visionary diplomat, a dedicated public servant, and a cherished friend to Bhutan. His career was marked by a profound commitment to international affairs, diplomacy, and cultural exchange, and he played an instrumental role in building bridges between diverse cultures and nations.
- [Announcing Bhutan Foundation’s Small Grants Program 2025](https://www.bhutanfound.org/announcing-bhutan-foundations-small-grants-program-2025/) - Are you a part of Civil Society Organization or Community-based Organization in Bhutan with a vision for sustainable development and innovation? The Bhutan Foundation invites you to apply for our 2025 Small Grants Program. The program is aimed at supporting small-scale, innovative, and impactful projects with measurable results across Bhutan. Guideline for Small Grants Program
- [Supporting Semi-Nomadic Communities and Snow Leopard Conservation in the Jomolhari Landscape](https://www.bhutanfound.org/supporting-semi-nomadic-communities-and-snow-leopard-conservation-in-the-jomolhari-landscape/) - The Jomolhari Landscape, renowned for its charismatic snow leopards and their prey, is also home to about 160 semi-nomadic people and approximately 3,000 yaks. These communities face significant challenges, particularly the predation of yak calves by snow leopards. To foster community support for snow leopard conservation, the Bhutan Foundation, in collaboration with the Royal Government
- [2024 Small Grants Program Recipients: Sherchock Womens Group](https://www.bhutanfound.org/2024-small-grants-program-recipients-sherchock-womens-group/) - For generations, Bhutanese women have been the backbone of food production, security, and rural development in Bhutan. Today, they are stepping into new roles, not just as farmers but as entrepreneurs and leaders across the agribusiness value chain. Women now make up 57.8% of Bhutan’s agricultural workforce, reaching as high as 60% in some
- [Empowering Communities: The Guengaling Community Cooperative’s Journey to Sustainable Beekeeping and Rural Revival](https://www.bhutanfound.org/empowering-communities-the-guengaling-community-cooperatives-journey-to-sustainable-beekeeping-and-rural-revival/) - In response to the challenges of rural-urban migration and the collapse of local cardamom orchards, over 30 members of the Guengaling Community Cooperative (GCC) in Norgaygang Gewog, Samtse, have come together to reshape their community's future. Led by Mr. Mer Man Gurung, a former lecturer at the College of Natural Resources under the Royal
- [Menjong Sorig Pharmaceutical Corporation Limited](https://www.bhutanfound.org/menjong-sorig-pharmaceutical-corporation-limited/) - Sowa Rigpa, Bhutan's ancient "science of healing," is deeply intertwined with the nation’s cultural and spiritual heritage. Rooted in traditional knowledge and closely linked with Buddhism and rural life, this practice has relied on Bhutan's diverse landscapes to supply medicinal herbs essential for health and wellness. For centuries, Bhutanese communities have traded these rare plants
- [Empowering Dagala’s Yak Herders through Cheese-Making and Livelihood Diversification](https://www.bhutanfound.org/empowering-dagalas-yak-herders-through-cheese-making-and-livelihood-diversification/) - Dagala Yak Cooperative, a community-based organization under the Bhutan Yak Federation, comprises 39 yak-rearing households with approximately 2,400 yaks. These semi-nomadic herders, residing in Dungdro and Wangdro chiwogs in Dagala Gewog, Thimphu District, rely heavily on yak products—milk, meat, wool—and some income from tourism. In 2022, they produced an impressive 177,876 liters of milk, 7.3
- [Agro-entrepreneurship Training - Sherchok Women’s Group](https://www.bhutanfound.org/agro-entrepreneurship-training-sherchok-womens-group/) - The Patsheling Gewog in Tsirang and Bartsham Gewog in Trashigang witnessed a transformative initiative aimed at empowering home-based workers. Over six impactful days, 40 women engaged in a training program organized by the Serchok Women’s Group, designed to equip them with essential business skills and innovative strategies to elevate their agro-business ventures.The training covered crucial
- [New Rafting Gear to Boost Ecotourism in Panbang](https://www.bhutanfound.org/new-rafting-gear-to-boost-ecotourism-in-panbang/) - The River Guides of Panbang is a community-led ecotourism group in Panbang, Zhemgang District. Founded in 2010, the group has nine members and employs 10 local youth to manage the Marangdutt Jungle Lodge and rafting services. To enhance local capacity and improve ecotourism activities, we have supported the group by upgrading the Lodge’s infrastructure and
- [REQUEST FOR EoI-LAP for Tshongdue-Extended](https://www.bhutanfound.org/request-for-expression-of-interest-local-area-plan-for-tshongdue-extended-paro/) - REQUEST FOR EXPRESSION OF INTEREST- Local Area Plan for Tshongdue-Extended, Paro Bhutan Foundation invites expressions of interest to provide the following consulting services: Local Area Plan for Tshongdue-Extended, Paro, project to be prepared tentatively from January to June 2025. Interested consultants should provide information demonstrating that they have the required qualifications and expertise to perform
- [Empowering rural communities through Agri-product innovation and local Enterprise Development](https://www.bhutanfound.org/empowering-rural-communities-through-agri-product-innovation-and-local-enterprise-development/) - Agriculture is one of Bhutan’s five economic jewels, employing more than half of the country’s population and playing a vital role in promoting equitable development, rural prosperity, and poverty alleviation. However, rural-urban migration, an aging farming population, and climate change threaten Bhutan’s food security. Through the Bhutan Foundation's Food Security Program, we are substantially impacting
- [VACANCY ANNOUNCEMENT FOR ACCOUNTS OFFICER](https://www.bhutanfound.org/vacancy-announcement-for-associate-accounts-officer/) - The Bhutan Foundation would like to announce the following vacancies for immediate recruitment. Accounts Officer Accounts Officer Terms of Reference Download If you have the required qualification, experience and skills, you can send your CV with a cover letter to jobs@bhutanfound.org by June 21, 2024 before 5 PM Bhutan Time These openings are for the Thimphu office
- [Announcement: Calling all artists to submit proposals for the ལུགས་གཉིས་  The Silken Knot and Golden Yoke Aerial Installation Gallery Project.](https://www.bhutanfound.org/announcement-calling-all-artists-to-submit-proposals-for-the-ལུགས་གཉིས་-the-silken-knot-and-golden-yoke-aerial-in/) - Wangduechhoeling Palace Museum & Cultural Center invites proposals from all the artists to craft our 'ལུགས་གཉིས་ Silken Knot & Golden Yoke' Aerial Art Installation. ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA: • Open to artists of all backgrounds and disciplines, including but not limited to visual artists, sculptors, architects, and designers. • Preference will be given to artists with demonstrated
- [VACANCY ANNOUNCEMENT FOR FACILITIES MANAGER AND SENIOR FINANCE OFFICER](https://www.bhutanfound.org/vacancy-announcement-for-facilities-manager-and-senior-finance-officer/) - VACANCY ANNOUNCEMENT FOR FACILITIES MANAGER AND SENIOR FINANCE OFFICER May 6, 2024 The Bhutan Foundation would like to announce the following vacancies for immediate recruitment for Wangduechhoeling Palace Museum and Cultural Center, Bumthang. Facilities Manager Facilities Manager Terms of Reference Download Senior Finance Officer Senior Finance Officer Terms of Reference Download If you have the
- [Hiring Now (US Office Open Positions)](https://www.bhutanfound.org/hiring-now/) - HIRING NOW (US OFFICE OPEN POSITIONS) May 2, 2024 We are looking for a Communications Officer and an Operations Officer that will be based out of our Washington DC office. Resumes are reviewed on a rolling basis. Please email your resume, cover letter and three references (references will only be contacted if the candidate is
- [VACANCY ANNOUNCEMENT FOR PROGRAM MANAGER AND SENIOR PROGRAM OFFICER](https://www.bhutanfound.org/vacancy-announcement-for-program-manager-and-senior-program-officer/) - The Bhutan Foundation would like to announce the following vacancies for immediate recruitment. Program Manager Program Manager Terms of Reference Download Senior Program Officer Senior Program Officer Terms of Reference Download If you have the required qualification, experience and skills, you can send your CV with a cover letter to jobs@bhutanfound.org by April 5, 2024 before 5
- [Announcing Bhutan Foundation's 2024 Small Grants Program](https://www.bhutanfound.org/announcing-bhutan-foundations-2024-small-grants-program/) - Are you a part of Civil Society Organization or Community-based Organization in Bhutan with a vision for sustainable development and innovation? The Bhutan Foundation invites you to apply for our 2024 Small Grants Program. The program is aimed at supporting small-scale, innovative, and impactful projects with measurable results across Bhutan. Grant Highlights: Funding up to
- [Bhutan Foundation Signs Project Mikhung 2.0 to Empower Local Communities](https://www.bhutanfound.org/bhutan-foundation-signs-project-mikhung-2-0-to-empower-local-communities/) - The Bhutan Foundation is thrilled to announce the signing of Project Mikhung 2.0 in partnership with the Bhutan Centre for Media and Democracy (BCMD). Titled "Capacitating the Local Government and Citizens to Strengthen People-Centered Planning," this project will focus on hands-on learning experiences, enabling people-centered planning and community development through inclusive, participatory consultations, and comprehensive
- [Signing of Grant Agreement to Establish an Assistive Technology Resource Center with PHENSEM](https://www.bhutanfound.org/signing-of-grant-agreement-to-establish-an-assistive-technology-resource-center-with-phensem/) - The Bhutan Foundation and PHENSEM have joined forces in an exciting partnership to promote Assistive Technology as a means to enhance the quality of life and education for children and individuals with disabilities. Our project, "Enable and Empower through Assistive Technology," aims to establish an Assistive Technology (AT) Resource Center. This center will demonstrate the
- [Launch of Bhutan's First Sign Language App on International Day for Persons with Disabilities](https://www.bhutanfound.org/launch-of-bhutans-first-sign-language-app-on-international-day-for-persons-with-disabilities/) - Today, in a heartwarming celebration, three schools – Wangsel School for the Deaf, Drukgyal Central School, and Drukgyal Primary School – along with teachers, students, parents, and the community, came together to celebrate International Day for Persons with Disabilities. Marking the day, the first-ever Bhutan Sign Language App was launched by the Director General and
- [Small Grants, Big Impacts: Empower Bhutan with Us This Giving Tuesday!](https://www.bhutanfound.org/small-grants-big-impacts-empower-bhutan-with-us-this-giving-tuesday/) - Today is Giving Tuesday, a global day of generosity and solidarity where people come together to support causes they believe in. Our Small Grants Program has been a beacon of hope and progress for communities across Bhutan. Through this initiative, we channel the generosity of donors like you into meaningful projects that empower local communities
- [International Snow Leopard Day](https://www.bhutanfound.org/international-snow-leopard-day/) - Each year October 23 is remarked as International Snow Leopard Day, this day centers to promote awareness and emphasize how crucial it is to conserve them. October 23, 2014, marked the inaugural International Snow Leopard Day. Since then, the day has been observed globally to focus attention on critical coordinate efforts that is needed to
- [Bhutan and Her Majesty Tseyring Pem Wangchuck Receive Murie Spirit of Conservation Awards](https://www.bhutanfound.org/bhutan-and-her-majesty-tseyring-pem-wangchuck-receive-murie-spirit-of-conservation-award/) - PRESS RELEASE Murie Spirit of Conservation Award for Bhutan Champion of Rising Leaders Award for Her Majesty On 17th October 2023, Her Majesty Tseyring Pem Wangchuck, the Queen Mother of Bhutan was presented the Champion of Rising Leaders Award by Teton Science School for Her Majesty’s dedication to environmental conservation and for inspiring and nurturing
- [Bhutan Delegation Strengthens Ties with U.S. Agencies in Washington DC](https://www.bhutanfound.org/bhutan-delegation-strengthens-ties-with-u-s-agencies-in-washington-dc/) - On September 29th, the Bhutan Foundation facilitated a delegation from Bhutan, led by the Hon. Foreign Minister, Lyonpo Tandi Dorji, and the Hon. Health Minister, Lyonpo Dechen Wangmo, to meet with U.S. institutions including NASA, USAID, and the US Chamber of Commerce in Washington DC. At NASA Headquarters, the delegation expressed gratitude to NASA Administrator,
- [PEER Bhutan Symposium 2023: Presenting Research and Fostering Dialogue on Bhutan's Pressing Issues](https://www.bhutanfound.org/peer-bhutan-symposium-2023-presenting-research-and-fostering-dialogue-on-bhutans-pressing-issues/) - The recent PEER Bhutan Symposium 2023, organized by the Bhutan Foundation and the Royal Society for the Protection of Nature with technical support from NASEM and financial aid from USAID, was a pivotal gathering spotlighting issues faced by Bhutan today. The event was the culmination of six research studies undertaken to address topics including environmental
- [Bhutan Holds International Cancer Symposium on Eliminating Cervical Cancer by 2030](https://www.bhutanfound.org/bhutan-holds-international-cancer-symposium-on-eliminating-cervical-cancer-by-2030/) - Since the implementation of informal screening processes in the 1980s to the formulation of structured strategies in the late 1990s and the early 2000s, Bhutan has a long-standing commitment to preventing cervical cancer, the predominant cancer affecting Bhutanese women. This weekend marked a pivotal moment in this journey as the nation convened experts in Thimphu.
- [Visit to Assistive Technology Innovators in Chennai, India](https://www.bhutanfound.org/visit-to-assistive-technology-innovators-in-chennai-india/) - With a mission to create an ecosystem for assistive technologies that can enhance the lives of children and individuals with disabilities in Bhutan, a team from the Bhutan Foundation and Phensem Parent Support Group visited the Museum of Possibilities, Vidya Sagar Special School, and the Indian Institute of Technology Madras’ R2D2 lab in Chennai, India
- [Two Solar Plants Will Soon Power 19 Households and Local Sacred Sites in Aja Ney](https://www.bhutanfound.org/two-solar-plants-will-soon-power-19-households-and-local-sacred-sites-in-aja-ney/) - Members of our team recently made the long trek to visit the solar project sites in Aja Ney, located inside Bumdeling Wildlife Sanctuary in Mongar. This remote area is about 35 km (21.75 miles) away from the Mongar highway by car, and a strenuous hike of six to seven hours on foot. It is considered
- [80 kW Decentralized Distributed Generation of Solar PV System Commissioned in Aja Ney, Mongar](https://www.bhutanfound.org/80-kw-decentralized-distributed-generation-of-solar-pv-system-commissioned-in-aja-ney-mongar/) - A Joint Press ReleaseMinistry of Economic Affairs, Royal Government of Bhutan; Bhutan For Life; Bhutan Foundation; Bhutan Ecological Society; GEF-SGP UNDP. Mongar, December 30, 2022: The first-ever 80 kW Decentralized Distributed Generation of Solar PV system was virtually launched today by His Excellency Lyonpo Loknath Sharma in the presence of community members and partners. The construction
- [[Watch] A Light in Darkness: Documentary on 80 kW Solar PV System in Aja Ney](https://www.bhutanfound.org/watch-a-light-in-darkness-documentary-on-80-kw-solar-pv-system-in-aja-ney/) - Here's a snippet from the newly released documentary "A Light in Darkness"! This short film documents the first-ever 80 kW Decentralized Distributed Generation of Solar PV System in Aja Ney, commissioned in collaboration with the Department of Renewable Energy, Ministry of Economic Affairs, Bhutan For Life, Bhutan Ecological Society and GEF Small Grants Programme.
- [Wangduechhoeling Palace Museum and Cultural Center is Hiring](https://www.bhutanfound.org/wangduechhoeling-palace-museum-and-cultural-center-is-hiring/) - Announcement The Bhutan Foundation would like to announce the following vacancies for the Wangduechhoeling Palace Museum and Cultural Center Project, to be based in Bumthang, for immediate recruitment. Collections & Acquisition Management Officer Researcher Security Guard - 2 (two) If you have the required qualification, experience and skills, you can send your CV with a cover letter to jobs@bhutanfound.org by Aug
- [Latest Bhutan National Tiger Survey Report Finds a Surging Tiger Population](https://www.bhutanfound.org/latest-bhutan-national-tiger-survey-report-finds-a-surging-tiger-population/) - As we commemorate International Tiger Day, we are thrilled to share some hopeful news from the heart of Bhutan. The Bhutan National Tiger Survey Report, just released, has uncovered a significant surge in the country's tiger population – a testament to the unwavering conservation efforts to date. The survey reveals an encouraging 27% increase in
- [Launch of the Draktsho Entrepreneurship Foundation and the Activity Based Entrepreneurship Textbook ](https://www.bhutanfound.org/launch-of-the-draktsho-entrepreneurship-foundation-and-the-activity-based-entrepreneurship-textbook/) - The Draktsho Activity Based Entrepreneurship Development Textbook, funded by the Bhutan Foundation and developed collaboratively with the Ministry of Industry, Commerce and Employment, is an empowering resource that offers equal entrepreneurial opportunities for persons with disabilities, enabling them to attain self-sustainability. Hand in hand with the textbook, the newly established Draktsho Entrepreneurship Foundation with seed
- [We're Hiring a Senior/Communications Officer for Thimphu Office](https://www.bhutanfound.org/were-hiring-a-senior-communications-officer-for-thimphu-office/) - Re-announcement Post Title: Senior/Communications Officer Number of Slots: 1 (one) Job Station: Thimphu, Bhutan Employment Term: On contract for three years (renewable based on performance) Minimum qualification required: Bachelor's Degree in Mass Communications and Marketing or experience in visual communications, advanced graphic design, social media management, and ICT management. Minimum years of experience: Three to five years of similar work experience.
- [80 kW Decentralized Distributed Generation Solar PV System to Benefit 34 Households in Aja Ney](https://www.bhutanfound.org/80-kw-decentralized-distributed-generation-solar-pv-system-to-benefit-34-households-in-aja-ney/) - Aja Ney is one of the most remote villages in Sherimuhung Gewog under Mongar Dzongkhag. Situated at an altitude ranging from 2,400-3,500 meters, the village is located 13 kilometers from Yarab, where the narrow farm road leading in comes to an end, a journey that takes nearly six hours by foot. The ney is widely
- [Embrace Inclusive Education Policies for Children with Disabilities in Bhutan](https://www.bhutanfound.org/embrace-inclusive-education-policies-for-children-with-disabilities-in-bhutan/) - Children with disabilities shouldn't be treated as special, nor should they be ignored. They require accommodations and adaptations to ensure they have equal opportunities in education. The Bhutan Foundation, alongside our Bhutanese partners, remains dedicated to ensuring these equal opportunities for children with special needs throughout the country. Toward inclusive education, the Bhutan Council for
- [Field Notes: Food Security, Social Enterprises, and Tiger Conservation](https://www.bhutanfound.org/field-notes-food-security-social-enterprises-and-tiger-conservation/) - In May 2023, following the Wangduechhoeling Palace special preview event in Bumthang, members of our Board and Advisory Council met with partners in Trongsa and Panbang who are implementing projects in food security, social enterprise, and tiger conservation. We are excited to share with you our field notes from the trip. Our first stop was
- [Celebrating the Graduation of Bruce Bunting Scholarship Recipients in Animal Science and Agriculture](https://www.bhutanfound.org/celebrating-the-graduation-of-bruce-bunting-scholarship-recipients-in-animal-science-and-agriculture/) - Congratulations, Mr. Bikash Rai and Ms. Tashi Dema, for successfully graduating with a Bachelor of Science in Animal Science and Agriculture from the College of Natural Resources! Mr. Rai and Ms. Dema were awarded the Bruce Bunting Scholarship in July 2021. The program, initiated in 2020 to honor Dr. Bruce Bunting, the President Emeritus of
- [Nomad Health Camps Aid Bhutan's Remote Highlanders](https://www.bhutanfound.org/nomad-health-camps-aid-bhutans-remote-highlanders/) - The remote highland region above the Bumthang valley in the heart of Bhutan is home to one of the country's few remaining nomadic communities. These highlanders rely on yaks for their livelihood and traverse the mountains in search of grazing grounds throughout the year. Until recently, their isolated location has left them unreached by mainstream
- [Engaging Communities to Conserve Snow Leopards](https://www.bhutanfound.org/engaging-communities-to-conserve-snow-leopards/) - Bhutan, known for its pristine forests and biodiversity, is home to the elusive snow leopard, a flagship species in the country's highlands that plays a crucial role in maintaining the ecological balance of the region. However, the snow leopard populations worldwide are declining due to habitat loss, retaliatory killing, and the illegal wildlife trade. The
- [Ensuring Food Security in Rural Bhutan](https://www.bhutanfound.org/ensuring-food-security-in-rural-bhutan/) - Bhutan is predominantly an agricultural society, with the majority of its population relying on farming for their livelihood. Most of the country’s agricultural land is owned by smallholder farmers, who practice subsistence farming. These farms suffer from a lack of mechanization, making farm work labor-intensive, and are often hindered by limited irrigation water and increasing
- [Launch of the Second Inclusive ECCD Workshop in Thimphu](https://www.bhutanfound.org/launch-of-the-second-inclusive-eccd-workshop-in-thimphu/) - Early Childcare and Development Centers (ECCDs) act as the initial stepping stone in a child's educational journey, bridging the gap between home life and their first social experiences. ECCDs function as inclusive environments, enabling children from diverse backgrounds to grow and develop at their own pace. Today in Thimphu, the second installment of the Inclusive
- [<span>[Closed]</span> Inviting Expression of Interest for Bhutanese Sign Language Mobile App Development](https://www.bhutanfound.org/inviting-expression-of-interest-for-bhutanese-sign-language-mobile-app-development/) - Summary: a. Job: Development of Bhutanese Sign Language mobile application b. Required documents: Detailed quote of rates for the service Past work experience Valid trade license Tax clearance certificate Any other related documents c. Last date of submission of expression of interest: April 7, 2023, before 5:00PM (Bhutan Time)d. Contact: 02 322 751 during office hours
- [[Closed] We're Hiring a Driver/Operations Assistant for Thimphu Office](https://www.bhutanfound.org/were-hiring-a-driver-operations-assistant-for-thimphu-office/) - The Bhutan Foundation announces a vacant post for a Driver/Operations Assistant to be stationed in Thimphu Office. Under the supervision of the Director, s/he is responsible for driving the office vehicle and supporting in daily operations and upkeep of the Bhutan Foundation Thimphu office. Designation: Driver/Operations Assistant Number of vacant posts available: One Duty station: The Bhutan
- [A Special Preview of Wangduechhoeling Palace](https://www.bhutanfound.org/a-special-preview-of-wangduechhoeling-palace/) - On Thurday, May 18th, the Wangduechhoeling Palace opened its doors to a special preview for board members of the Bhutan Foundation and their guests. As they toured the grounds, they were able to witness the restorative efforts made to the palace's physical structure, as well as the unveiling of temporary exhibits showcasing a glimpse of
- [Coming Together for Inclusive Education](https://www.bhutanfound.org/coming-together-for-inclusive-education/) - Deputy Chief Pema Chhogyel of the Ministry of Education and Skills Development closed an orientation in Thimphu on a somber, yet hopeful note. A visually impaired man himself, Pema spoke at length about the challenges and discriminations he has encountered throughout his education in Bhutan. He recounted his story of losing sight at the age
- [Project Citizen Takes Inclusive Planning to Rural Bhutan](https://www.bhutanfound.org/project-citizen-takes-inclusive-planning-to-rural-bhutan/) - In Paro, a group of young people from Shaba High School have come together to clean a drinking water source in Kisa village. And in the southeastern part of Bhutan, in Samdrup Jongkhar, students from Jigme Namgyel Engineering College have solved an open defecation problem at their local monastery by building seven public toilets. How
- [Reviving Ancient Stories and Crafts at Wangduechhoeling](https://www.bhutanfound.org/reviving-ancient-stories-and-crafts-at-wangduechhoeling/) - THE WANGDUECHHOELING PALACE WAS ONCE a vibrant home to Bhutan’s first Kings and Queens. Located in the Bumthang Valley, Bhutan’s spiritual heartland and geographic center, it centered a network of caravan routes that criss-crossed the country before the advent of motorized travel, and was in a strategic position from which the country’s monarchs could rule
- [Bringing Light to Lunana](https://www.bhutanfound.org/bringing-light-to-lunana/) - Imagine living in a community that is so remote that it takes eight days to reach the nearest road. For the people of Lunana in Bhutan, this is their reality. They are the last remaining communities without access to electricity in the country, but a new project led by the Bhutan Foundation aims to change
- [Tendruk Central School in Samtse Initiates a Student-led Waste Management Initiative](https://www.bhutanfound.org/tendruk-central-school-in-samtse-initiates-a-student-led-waste-management-initiative/) - Tendruk Central School in Samtse has taken an innovative step towards sustainability with the implementation of its student-led waste management project. In addition to constructing a new waste segregation facility, the school has acquired the necessary waste segregation and storage materials such as bins, biodegradable plastic bags, sewing machines, protective gear, and other essential tools,
- [Field Notes from the Newest Member of our Team, Phuntsho Namgay](https://www.bhutanfound.org/field-notes-from-the-newest-member-of-our-team-phuntsho-namgay/) - Greetings from Thimphu! Last year, we celebrated one of the most momentous and joyful years in Bhutan’s history with the 60th birth anniversary of His Majesty the Fourth Druk Gyalpo Jigme Singye Wangchuck. As the Bhutanese new year approached this year, their Majesties the King and Queen blessed us with another joyous occasion to celebrate: the
- [Jomolhari Mountain Festival 2014](https://www.bhutanfound.org/jomolhari-mountain-festival-2014/) - The second Jomolhari Mountain Festival was attended by guests from the Snow Leopard Conservancy, the Bhutan Foundation, Karma Quest Expeditions, government officials, tourists, and other visitors. A small bakery was introduced by the community at Jangothang tourist camp, funded by the Tourism Council of Bhutan, Association of Bhutanese Tour Operators, and the Bhutan Foundation. The
- [Jomolhari School Construction is Completed](https://www.bhutanfound.org/jomolhari-school-construction-is-completed/) - Jomolhari School construction was completed and officially handed over to the community. Staff from the Bhutan Foundation joined the community of parents and local elders for the opening ceremony. The new school now has better lighting, insulation, and adequate space, including a library for the students. The school also plans to be powered using solar
- [Bhutan's Wild Cats: A Story of Hope](https://www.bhutanfound.org/bhutans-wild-cats-a-story-of-hope/) - Bhutan is a small Himalayan country that covers only 0.03 percent of the world’s surface—yet is home to 30 percent of the world’s wild-cat species. How is this possible? Bhutan’s diversity of habitats, from subtropical jungles in the south to snow-clad mountains in the north, offer a unique environment for these wild cats to thrive.
- [Jomolhari Mountain Festival Hosts Health Screening Campaign](https://www.bhutanfound.org/jomolhari-mountain-festival-hosts-health-screening-campaign/) - The third Jomolhari Mountain Festival was funded by the Tourism Council of Bhutan. We supported a health screening campaign at the festival in collaboration with the Faculty of Nursing and Public Health, Khesar Gyalpo University of Medical Sciences. The festival is a perfect time for conducting annual medical check-ups when the local residents are all
- [Bhutan's Emergency Medical Response in Nepal](https://www.bhutanfound.org/bhutans-emergency-medical-response-in-nepal/) - On April 25, a 7.8 magnitude earthquake struck Nepal, creating a tragedy of immense proportions. Entire villages, ancient temples, homes, and lives were reduced to rubble. At such a time, many stories of hope emerge, and that is what keeps the hardest hit clinging on, even if to an uncertain future. This is a time
- [Celebrate International Snow Leopard Day with the School Among Snow Leopards](https://www.bhutanfound.org/celebrate-international-snow-leopard-day-with-school-among-snow-leopards/) - As people around the world celebrate International Snow Leopard Day today, the children from one of the best snow leopard areas in Bhutan, the Jomolhari region in Jigme Dorji National Park, celebrate the completion of their new school. Drawn to this area particularly for its snow leopards, the Bhutan Foundation is working with the authorities
- [Soe Community Members Trained in Livestock Management](https://www.bhutanfound.org/soe-community-members-trained-in-livestock-management/) - A total of 28 members of the Soe community were trained in livestock management to increase knowledge of basic animal health treatments for wounds, fractures, and abscesses; to increase understanding of pasture development, feeding management, and breed improvement; and, more importantly, to increase understanding of the prevention and cure of gid disease. This training is
- [A Model for Fire Mitigation at Trashigang Dzong](https://www.bhutanfound.org/a-model-for-fire-mitigation-at-trashigang-dzong/) - Since the earthquake in 2009, major restoration work has been taking place at Trashigang Dzong in Eastern Bhutan. With growing concerns of the loss of important cultural heritage sites to fire, and especially with increased risks during restoration, the Bhutan Foundation in partnership with the Prince Claus Fund supported building fire mitigation systems at Trashigang
- [Authors, Reviewers, and Editors Convene for Bhutan’s First Health Journal](https://www.bhutanfound.org/authors-reviewers-and-editors-convene-for-bhutans-first-health-journal/) - The first-ever medical journal in Bhutan, the Bhutan Health Journal (BHJ), was published and launched on November 11, 2015, in honor of the 60th birth anniversary of the Fourth Druk Gyalpo His Majesty Jigme Singye Wangchuck. The journal serves as a platform to publish scientific articles for researchers, a learning platform for new health professionals,
- [Official Collaboration with the Royal Government of Bhutan](https://www.bhutanfound.org/official-collaboration-with-the-royal-government-of-bhutan/) - On August 21, 2015, the Bhutan Foundation officially signed a five-year Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Royal Government of Bhutan’s Gross National Happiness Commission (GNHC) and on January 21, 2016, finalized five project agreements amounting to about USD 1.4 million to support various projects throughout the country. The MoU with the Royal Government of
- [Teachers from 17 Schools Attend Bhutan Phenology Observation Workshop](https://www.bhutanfound.org/teachers-from-17-schools-attend-bhutan-phenology-observation-workshop/) - From February 3rd-5th, 23 participants including focal teachers from 17 schools and representatives from the Ministry of Education attended the annual Bhutan Phenology Observation Workshop. The workshop further reinforced the phenology observation skills of focal teachers and students participating in the HEROES project. In addition, this workshop provided an opportunity for the participants to provide
- [Gid Disease Reduction Program Drops Yak Calf Mortality in Jomolhari](https://www.bhutanfound.org/gid-disease-reduction-program-drops-yak-calf-mortality-in-jomolhari/) - Since the implementation of the gid disease reduction program by the Livestock Officer and yak herders of Soe Yutoed in 2013, the incidence of yak calf mortality in the area has dropped from 34 percent to 8 percent in three years. This was mainly brought about through a series of awareness campaigns, training of herders
- [Bhutan is Important for Global Tiger Survival](https://www.bhutanfound.org/bhutan-is-important-for-global-tiger-survival/) - Much of the eastern United States is experiencing a scorching heat wave this week. To cool you off, we want to share a photograph of a tiger in the snowy mountains of Bhutan, caught in camera traps set up by field biologists from the Ugyen Wangchuck Institute for Conservation and Environment (UWICE) and the Department of Forests and
- [Perkins International in Bhutan](https://www.bhutanfound.org/perkins-international-bhutan/) - In March 2016, the Bhutan Foundation was excited to welcome Perkins International to Bhutan to carry out a needs assessment of the Bhutan Foundation's Special Education Program, which is now in its eighth year. The Special Education Program has come a long way since we first started it in 2009 in close partnership with the Ministry
- [Bhutan Foundation Celebrates the Birth of the Gyalsey Jigme Namgyel Wangchuck](https://www.bhutanfound.org/bhutan-foundation-celebrates-birth-gyalsey-jigme-namgyel-wangchuck/) - On April 6, 2016, the Bhutan Foundation celebrated its Annual Board Dinner in Thimphu, Bhutan, hosted by our Co-chair, Her Majesty Gyalyum Tseyring Pem Wangchuck. During this special occasion, to honor the birth of His Royal Highness the Gyalsey Jigme Namgyel Wangchuck, Her Majesty and Mrs. Daphne Hoch Cunningham, Board Member of the Bhutan Foundation, presented
- [BCMD and Bhutan Foundation Support CSO Storytelling Trainings](https://www.bhutanfound.org/bcmd-and-bhutan-foundation-support-cso-storytelling-trainings/) - The Bhutan Foundation in collaboration with the Bhutan Centre for Media and Democracy and the Bhutan Media and Communications Institute supported a three-day communication skills training for all CSOs. Thirty three participants from various organizations participated in this training titled, "Inspiring people to support and enhance your good work." Over the course of three days,
- [U.S. Ambassadors Fund for Cultural Preservation visits Restoration Site](https://www.bhutanfound.org/u-s-ambassadors-fund-for-cultural-preservation-visits-restoration-site/) - The U.S. Ambassadors Fund for Cultural Preservation (AFCP) made its second site visit at the Wangduechhoeling Palace in Bumthang. The team visited Lingkha Lhakhang (temple), which has now completed restoration, and the main palace structure to review and evaluate the quality of work. While in Bumthang, the team met with district officials of the Bumthang
- [On the Tiger Trail](https://www.bhutanfound.org/on-the-tiger-trail/) - This past month, three of us from the Bhutan Foundation–Bruce Bunting, Dawa Sherpa, and Phuntsho Namgay–went on an adventure into the forgotten trail from Shingkhar, Bumthang, to Autsho, Lhuntse. As much as the tough terrain beat us down, mostly because it was not maintained and rarely used, we couldn’t be happier to have experienced the rich
- [Support Nomad Health Camps in Bhutan](https://www.bhutanfound.org/support-nomad-health-camps-bhutan/) - For many communities living in Bhutan’s rural areas, access to health care is limited and challenging. Most of the families in these communities are yak herders living in high altitudes, far removed from motor-vehicle–accessible roads. The closest basic health unit or hospital is hours to a few days’ walk away. Due to their remoteness, these
- [Photojournalism for Multimedia Storytelling Workshop in Bumthang](https://www.bhutanfound.org/photojournalism-for-multimedia-storytelling-workshop-in-bumthang/) - The Bhutan Foundation in collaboration with the Bhutan Centre for Media and Democracy carried out a four-day photojournalism for multimedia storytelling workshop in Bumthang, Bhutan. 20 students and two teachers from Jakar Higher Secondary School, one media officer from UWICE and two staff from Tashi Deling attended the training. The training aimed at creating awareness
- [Jomolhari Snow Leopard Program- International Snow Leopard Day 2016](https://www.bhutanfound.org/jomolhari-snow-leopard-program/) - The global snow leopard population stands estimated at around 5,000 individuals spread over 2 million square kilometers of habitat across the mountains of the Himalayas and Central Asia, spanning 12 countries. Stories from much of the snow leopard range paint a dismal future for this endangered cat, but Bhutan presents a Story of Hope. The Bhutan
- [Introducing Gangzi the Snow Leopard](https://www.bhutanfound.org/introducing-gangzi-the-snow-leopard/) - The fourth Jomolhari Mountain Festival, held October 24-25, 2016, was the stage for our successful launch of two new conservation awareness tools: a snow leopard activity chest and a snow leopard mascot, Gangzi. This was part of the snow leopard conservation initiative in collaboration with the Jigme Dorji National Park. The goal is for the
- [Her Majesty Gyalyum Tseyring Pem Wangchuk Visits Palace Project Site](https://www.bhutanfound.org/her-majesty-gyalyum-tseyring-pem-wangchuk-visits-palace-project-site/) - Her Majesty Gyalyum Tseyring Pem Wangchuck, Co-chair of the Bhutan Foundation, visited the Wangduechhoeling Palace project site to assess the ongoing restoration work. During the visit, Her Majesty visited the Lingkha Lhakhang (temple), which was completed in May this year. Her Majesty granted Tokha (traditional lunch) to more than 60 community members in front of
- [Her Majesty Gyalyum Tseyring Pem Wangchuck Grants Audience to HEROES Students](https://www.bhutanfound.org/her-majesty-gyalyum-tseyring-pem-wangchuck-grants-audience-to-heroes-students/) - Her Majesty Gyalyum Tseyring Pem Wangchuck, the co-chair of the Bhutan Foundation, granted an audience to the students and teachers of Jakar Higher Secondary School in Bumthang. Her Majesty visited the school to interact with the students and teachers who were members of the Himalayan Environmental Rhythms Observation and Evaluation System (HEROES) project at the
- [Texas Premiere of Power of the River: Expedition to the Heart of Water in Bhutan](https://www.bhutanfound.org/texas-premiere-film-power-river-expedition-heart-water-bhutan/) - On November 11, 2016, the Bhutan Foundation in partnership with the Lonestar Film Festival in Fort Worth, Texas, hosted a Texas premiere of the film, Power of the River: Expedition to the Heart of Water in Bhutan. We were honored to show this film in commemoration with the 61st Birth Anniversary of the Fourth King
- [BLACK FRIDAY. CYBER MONDAY. GIVING TUESDAY. November 29, 2016](https://www.bhutanfound.org/black-friday-cyber-monday-givingtuesday-november-29-2016/) - Help us train our Bhutanese teachers by providing resources and tools to help children with disabilities learn! This Tuesday - November 29 - we celebrate this global day of giving, #GivingTuesday, by giving children with disabilities a chance to learn by supporting their teachers. The Bhutan Foundation continues to work with the Ministry of Education, Royal Government
- [Field Notes from our Program Director in Thimphu, Mr. Tashi Tshering Dukpa](https://www.bhutanfound.org/field-notes-from-our-program-director-in-thimphu-mr-tashi-tshering-dukpa/) - Warm greetings and happy new year from Bhutan! It has barely been three months since I started as the program director in Thimphu for the Bhutan Foundation, and I have learned, witnessed, and been able to take part in many exciting events and programs. One of the most memorable events during my first week at
- [A Two-Year Project Agreement with the Faculty of Traditional Medicine](https://www.bhutanfound.org/two-year-project-agreement-faculty-traditional-medicine/) - The Bhutan Foundation is pleased sign a two-year project agreement with the Faculty of Traditional Medicine under the Khesar Gyalpo University of Medical Sciences of Bhutan (KGUMSB) for the establishment of a Medicinal Herb Garden and Tanadugphodrang (Paradise of Medicinal Buddha) at the institute in Thimphu. The establishment of a Medicinal Herb Garden at the
- [Research Grants Awarded for Public Health](https://www.bhutanfound.org/research-grants-awarded-public-health/) - As part of our continued support to build the capacity of health professionals in Bhutan by developing research and scientific writing skills, we supported a four-day authors’ and reviewers’ workshop led by the Bhutan Health Journal under the Khesar Gyalpo University of Medical Sciences of Bhutan (KGUMSB). The Bhutan Health Journal, the country’s first scientific
- [Transitioning to Adult Life: Work, Play, Live, and Love](https://www.bhutanfound.org/transitioning-adult-life-work-play-live-love/) - The Ministry of Education and UNICEF organized a week-long training for special education teachers from all 15 schools that teach children with disabilities in Bhutan. During the January 18–23 training, the Bhutan Foundation organized a session on transition in collaboration with Changangkha Middle Secondary School (CGMSS). The session focused on understanding the need for transition
- [February Newsletter: Project Updates and Our Partner Spotlight](https://www.bhutanfound.org/february-newsletter/) - On February 5, His Royal Highness Gyalsey Jigme Namgyel Wangchuck turned one year old. It is such a tremendous joy to witness His Royal Highness grow and lift the hearts and spirits of the people across Bhutan. In line with the celebrations all across the country, we offer our sincere wishes and prayers for a
- [Fresh Vegetables in Highland Communities](https://www.bhutanfound.org/fresh-vegetables-highland-communities/) - Last year, through our small grants program, we supported an initiative to install a pilot greenhouse at Soe gewog in Jomolhari region. The project, located at 3,900 meters above sea level, was aimed at studying the durability of the raw materials used in building the greenhouse and also to observe the types of fresh vegetables that
- [A Two-Day Visioning Exercise is Conducted in Thimphu for the Future Museum](https://www.bhutanfound.org/a-two-day-visioning-exercise-is-conducted-in-thimphu-for-the-future-museum/) - Exciting plans are evolving as the Bhutan Foundation and the Division for Conservation of Heritage Sites (DCHS) collaborate to restore and conserve the Wangduechhoeling Palace as a museum and a center for learning to ensure its sustainability and, as a byproduct, provide employment opportunities to the local people. With physical restoration of the palace underway,
- [Nomad Health Camp expands to Merak and Sakteng, Trashigang](https://www.bhutanfound.org/nomad-health-camp-expands-merak-sakteng-trashigang/) - In May this year, a team from the Sakteng Wildlife Sanctuary and medical professionals from the Trashigang District Hospital and nearby Basic Health Units will lead a Nomad Health Camp in Merak and Sakteng. The Sakteng Wildlife Sanctuary will be leading such health camp for the first time. The health camp will provide basic health
- [International Conference on Sustainable and Renewable Energy Development and Design](https://www.bhutanfound.org/international-conference-sustainable-renewable-energy-development-design/) - From April 3 till 5, 2017, the College of Science and Technology (CST) under the Royal University of Bhutan (RUB) will lead a three-day international conference on ‘Sustainable and Renewable Energy Development and Design’ at the Royal University of Bhutan’s convention center in Thimphu. The conference is a joint effort between CST, the Karuna Foundation
- [Field Notes from Bhutan's Tiger Biologist at UWICE, Mr. Tshering Tempa](https://www.bhutanfound.org/field-notes-from-bhutans-tiger-biologist-at-uwice-mr-tshering-tempa/) - Warm greetings from Bhutan! It’s been two months since I returned to Bhutan from pursuing my PhD in “Ecology of Mountain Tigers” at the University of Montana. And boy, it is good to be back home! I am happy to work alongside my colleagues once again, venturing into the lush forests and hoping to cross
- [Support for nationwide drugs & alcohol awareness and prevention campaign](https://www.bhutanfound.org/support-nationwide-drugs-alcohol-awareness-prevention-campaign/) - Today, under the wise leadership of Her Majesty Gyalyum Tseyring Pem Wangchuck, co-chair of the Bhutan Foundation, we are happy to sign a project agreement with the Chithuen Phendhey Association (CPA) to support ‘Drugs and Alcohol Awareness and Prevention Campaign’ throughout Bhutan. Like elsewhere in the world, the impact of drugs and alcohol abuse continues
- [New Partnerships in Public Health  in Bhutan!](https://www.bhutanfound.org/new-partnerships-public-health-bhutan/) - This month, we are excited to share that the University of California San Francisco (UCSF) is our newest partner in Bhutan! The Khesar Gyalpo University of Medical Sciences of Bhutan (KGUMSB), Bhutan's only medical university, signed a Memorandum of Understanding with UCSF to work together to build public health capacity in Bhutan. Through this new
- [Fifty Species of Medical Seedlings Collected and Planted](https://www.bhutanfound.org/fifty-species-of-medical-seedlings-collected-and-planted/) - Fifty species of medical seedlings have been collected from Lingzhi. The staff members from the Faculty of Traditional Medicine (FoTM) were engaged in collecting the medical seedlings from May 25, 2017 until June 3, 2017. The medical seedlings then were planted in the newly developed garden with help from the students. So far, 50 percent
- [Empowering Parents of Children with Disabilities](https://www.bhutanfound.org/empowering-parents-children-disabilities/) - If we are to further strengthen our support for individuals with disabilities in Bhutan, it is crucial we also develop capacity and empower parents along with educators and health providers. Only then can we see results in expansion of policy, accessibility, and improved services. The Bhutan Foundation in collaboration with Perkins International supported two Bhutanese
- [Field Notes from Our Youngest Team Member, Mr. Tenzing N. Dorji](https://www.bhutanfound.org/field-notes-from-our-youngest-team-member-mr-tenzing-n-dorji/) - Surely to be one of the highlights of my year, this May, following the successes of the Nomad Health Camps held in the highland communities in Jomolhari and Bumthang, we were able to take the camps to the far eastern highland communities of Merak (11,500 ft) and Sakteng (8,200 ft). These communities are vastly untouched by
- [Read to Light Bhutan: Enabling the visually impaired to have access to educational books](https://www.bhutanfound.org/read-light-bhutan-enabling-visually-impaired-access-educational-books/) - Under the wise and benevolent leadership of His Majesty the Fourth Druk Gyalpo Jigme Singye Wangchuck, His Royal Highness Prince Namgyel Wangchuck, the then Minister of Trade, Industry and Forests, established the first-ever school to cater to the needs of visually impaired in 1973 at Khaling under Trashigang district. The school began with only three
- [The Bhutan Emergency Aeromedical Retrieval (BEAR) Team Needs Your Help!](https://www.bhutanfound.org/bhutan-emergency-aeromedical-retrieval-bear-team-needs-help/) - The story of Bhutan Emergency Aeromedical Retrieval (BEAR) begins in the fall of 2016. A 14-year-old boy fell from the roof of his house near Trashigang (in eastern Bhutan), breaking his arm and ribs, and tearing his right lung. Breathing quickly became a struggle. Running to the scene, the health assistant examined the boy and called for immediate
- [Innovative Surveillance and Control Strategy Training for Vector-borne Diseases in Bhutan](https://www.bhutanfound.org/innovative-surveillance-control-strategy-training-vector-borne-diseases-bhutan/) - People around the world are susceptible to bacteria and viruses transmitted by ticks, fleas, mosquitos, and other insects, or “vectors.” Bhutan’s Department of Public Health has made substantial progress toward reducing malaria transmission. However, vector-borne diseases remain a threat in Bhutan. Currently, vector-borne diseases prevalent in the country are malaria, dengue, leishmaniasis, and scrub typhus
- [Bhutan Foundation Signs One Year Grant Agreement with Bhutan Ecological Society](https://www.bhutanfound.org/bhutan-foundation-signs-one-year-grant-agreement-with-bhutan-ecological-society/) - The Bhutan Foundation signed a one-year grant agreement with the Bhutan Ecological Society (BES), a civil society organization in Bhutan, to expand the HEROES project to six highland schools. The project 'Schools at the Edge- Climate change adaptation and responses of high-altitude schools' will ensure comfortable classrooms and quality learning as a response to harsh
- [Field Notes from Our Executive Director](https://www.bhutanfound.org/field-notes-from-our-executive-director/) - As the southern United States and the Caribbean recover from hurricanes Harvey and Irma, our thoughts go out to the thousands affected. Even in Bhutan and elsewhere in South Asia, the monsoons have come down pretty hard this year. The rivers are in spate and the incessant rain caused several flash floods across Bhutan, disrupting
- [BCMD Releases Music Video for Democracy Day](https://www.bhutanfound.org/bcmd-releases-music-video-for-democracy-day/) - Our team was happy to be part of the Democracy Day and Voters Day led by the Bhutan Centre for Media and Democracy and the Election Commission of Bhutan. The BCMD released a music video 'Dear Respected Prime Minister, an educational song on the dos and don'ts for a vibrant democracy. Check out the song
- [Snow Leopard Conservation Training in Soe and Yaksa](https://www.bhutanfound.org/snow-leopard-conservation-training-in-soe-and-yaksa/) - The Bhutan Foundation supported the Soe Park Range Office under the Jigme Dorji National Park (JDNP) to train various members of the Soe and Yaksa community on snow leopard conservation. A key to the project was the formation of Snow Leopard Conservation groups, comprised solely of members from the communities of Soe Yutoe and Soe
- [On Giving Tuesday, help the Bhutan Cancer Society to Provide Preventative Health Services to Nuns in Bhutan!](https://www.bhutanfound.org/giving-tuesday-help-bhutan-cancer-society-provide-preventative-health-services-nuns-bhutan/) - The Bhutan Cancer Society (BCS) needs your help to provide cancer control services in prevention, treatment, palliative, and supportive care to nuns in Bhutan. According to the only cancer report in the country (2015), the number of cancer cases in Bhutan has been steadily increasing. Among women, the most common cancers are cervical and ovarian
- [First Research Study on Maternal Oral Health in Bhutan](https://www.bhutanfound.org/first-research-study-maternal-oral-health-bhutan/) - Little is known about women's oral health in Bhutan, especially during pregnancy and the childbearing years. Maternal oral health is an important public health issue as dental caries are an infectious and communicable disease that can be transmitted from mothers to infants. This year, a team of Bhutanese researchers from Khesar Gyalpo University of Medical
- [Setting Health Research Priorities in Bhutan](https://www.bhutanfound.org/setting-health-research-priorities-bhutan/) - The Khesar Gyalpo University of Medical Sciences of Bhutan (KGUMSB) organized a three-day workshop to develop the national health research priority list in collaboration with the Ministry of Health (MoH) and the Bhutan Foundation. Sixteen participants from different health sectors worked together to create the list, which will be instrumental in guiding the government and
- [Revitalizing Traditional Paints with "Colors of Nature"](https://www.bhutanfound.org/revitalizing-traditional-paints-with-colors-of-nature/) - As a trainee of Trashi Yangtse Zorig Chusum, the institute for traditional arts and crafts in eastern Bhutan in 2013, Penjor developed passion to learn and research on use of natural pigments for paintings. He embarked on an exciting venture to create dyes using natural pigments from organic sources like plants and trees and founded
- [Coming Back to Life: Supporting People Suffering with Substance Abuse Issues](https://www.bhutanfound.org/coming-back-to-live/) - One of our small grant recipients is a Buddhist monk from Wales called Lama Shenphen Zangpo, who has been an inspirational mentor for Bhutanese youth who come in conflict with law and suffer from substance abuse. For his efforts, in year 2015, His Majesty the King, awarded Lama Shenphen the National Order of Merit, Gold.
- [Dhungsel Home Spa in Thimphu Empowering Persons with Disabilities](https://www.bhutanfound.org/dhungsel-home-spa-in-thimphu-empowering-persons-with-disabilities/) - The Bhutan Foundation in collaboration with Disabled Persons Association of Bhutan partnered with Aman Kora Resort in 2015 to train eight unemployed visually impaired youth for massage therapy. Tshering Dorji is one of the eight candidates who now runs his own home spa in Thimphu with a small seed fund from the Foundation. The spa
- [Small Grants Supports 2018 Entrepreneurship Festival](https://www.bhutanfound.org/small-grants-supports-2018-entrepreneurship-festival/) - Loden Foundation, one of our civil society organization partners, is well known for its efforts to promote social entrepreneurship and intelligent business in Bhutan. Through our small grants program, we supported their entrepreneurship festival in 2018 called the Druk Tshongrig Gatoen where over 2000 young Bhutanese in 11 educational institutions were engaged through multiple events
- [Four New Schools Selected for HEROES Program in 2018](https://www.bhutanfound.org/four-new-schools-selected-for-heroes-program-in-2018/) - Since 2014, a total of 17 schools across Bhutan have been implementing the HEROES. The UWICER has now selected four new schools from Paro, Punakha, Zhemgang, and Trongsa where students will soon start implementing the program.
- [The Faculty of Traditional Medicine (FoTM) and the Bhutan Foundation Inaugurate the Tanadugphodrang](https://www.bhutanfound.org/the-faculty-of-traditional-medicine-fotm-and-the-bhutan-foundation-inaugurate-the-tanadugphodrang/) - While health care is free in Bhutan, its citizens also have the option of choosing from traditional or allopathic medicine. Since 1971, the government of Bhutan has been training traditional physicians at what is now the Faculty of Traditional Medicine (FoTM), based on the ancient science of bSowa Rigpa. As per this text, the Buddha
- [The NTC Successfully Radio-Collared a Tiger for the First Time in Bhutan](https://www.bhutanfound.org/ntc-successfully-radio-collared-tiger-first-time-bhutan/) - The National Tiger Center (NTC) based in Gelephu under the Department of Forest and Park Services (DoFPS) of the Ministry of Agriculture and Forests has successfully radio-collared a three-year old female tiger weighing 110 kilograms (kg) on February 09, 2018, in Royal Manas National Park (RMNP). This is the first time a tiger has been
- [The Palace Enters A New Phase in Restoration](https://www.bhutanfound.org/the-palace-enters-a-new-phase-in-restoration/) - The Wangduechhoeling Palace restoration is now entering into a new phase, which will determine the future of the palace. This entails bringing back the use and art of traditional mineral paints, a practice that is dying in Bhutan with new acrylic paints entering the market. This next phase also includes creating appropriate fire mitigation and
- [Transition: Preparing Children with Multiple disabilities and Visual Impairment (MDVI) for School](https://www.bhutanfound.org/transition-preparing-children-with-multiple-disabilities-and-visual-impairment-mdvi-for-school/) - The Bhutan Foundation organized a three-day workshop from March 2nd to 4th to provide children with multiple disabilities and visual impairment (MDVI) the support needed to prepare them for school. We worked in collaboration with Ability Bhutan Society (ABS) and with technical support from Perkins International. The workshop was conducted for parents and caregivers of
- [First-Ever Advanced Trauma Life-Support Training in Bhutan](https://www.bhutanfound.org/first-ever-advanced-trauma-life-support-training-in-bhutan/) - Bhutan’s first Advanced Trauma Life Support (ATLS) training took place in Thimphu for 35 medical doctors, lecturers, and nurses from the Khesar Gyalpo University of Medical Sciences, regional hospitals, and basic health units from western and central parts of Bhutan. The three-day workshop taught our local doctors and health workers how to assess a patient’s
- [Educators Meet to Develop Inclusive Education Curriculum in Bhutan's Public Schools](https://www.bhutanfound.org/educators-meet-to-develop-inclusive-education-curriculum-in-bhutans-public-schools/) - In June, the Bhutan Foundation worked in partnership with Perkins International and the Royal Education Council to facilitate a three-day workshop on developing an inclusive curriculum framework for Bhutan’s public schools. The workshop—the first of its kind—was mainly targeted for senior curriculum development officers and designed to explore the curricular needs of children with multiple disabilities. The three-day discussion
- [Field Notes from Our Director and Senior Communications Officer in Bhutan](https://www.bhutanfound.org/field-notes-from-our-director-and-senior-communications-officer-in-bhutan/) - FIELD NOTES FROM OUR DIRECTOR, TASHI T. DUKPA, AND SENIOR COMMUNICATIONS OFFICER, PEMA GYAMTSHO, IN BHUTAN To kick off the summer, we are excited to report to you on some of the projects from our communities throughout Bhutan. We just returned from an invigorating trip to southern, eastern, and central Bhutan, visiting projects that are
- [Updates from Bhutan July 2018](https://www.bhutanfound.org/newsletter-july-2018/) - Educators Meet to Develop an Inclusive Curriculum in Bhutan's Public Schools In June, the Bhutan Foundation worked in partnership with Perkins International and the Royal Education Council to facilitate a three-day workshop on developing an inclusive curriculum framework for Bhutan’s public schools. The workshop—the first of its kind—was mainly targeted for senior curriculum development officers
- [Featuring a Documentary on Bhutan's First Radio-Collared Tiger](https://www.bhutanfound.org/5891-2/) - To celebrate International Tiger Day on 29th July, the Bhutan Foundation in collaboration with the National Tiger Centre is happy to share a documentary on first collared tiger of Bhutan. It was the first time a tiger has been radio-collared by a team of Bhutanese biologists and foresters in February 2018. The tiger being an
- [Importance of transition planning for children with special needs](https://www.bhutanfound.org/importance-of-transition-planning-for-children-with-special-needs/) - The Bhutan Foundation in partnership with Perkins International supported two special education experts to work with children, parents and staff of Hejo Day Care Centre and Ability Bhutan Society from 13th to 25th August, 2018. Hejo Day Care Centre is one of the very few private mainstream centers who provides services to children with special needs.
- [New Radio-Collars for Tigers Arrive in DC Office](https://www.bhutanfound.org/new-radio-collars-for-tigers-arrive-in-dc-office/) - Check out these tiger collars that came to our DC office today! You might have heard about the recent livestock attacks in Zhemgang where 15 cows were killed by wild tigers. In response, the Bhutan Foundation is sending over four tracking collars, sized for two males and two females, in order to help the Bhutan
- [Training on Special Education Practices in India](https://www.bhutanfound.org/training-on-special-education-practices-in-india/) - Our team is in Chennai, India this week! A group of nine Bhutanese involved in Special Education are currently on an exposure trip in Chennai, India, with the Bhutan Foundation and Perkins International to learn about services and opportunities available for children with special needs! The goal of this exposure trip is to help expand
- [Nomad Health Camps Perform 288 Procedures in 10 Days](https://www.bhutanfound.org/nomad-health-camps-perform-288-procedures-in-10-days/) - The numbers are in and this year's Nomad Health Camps were a great success! For nomadic groups in the remote highland areas of Bhutan, getting healthcare can be almost impossible, but with the support of the Bhutan Foundation, an amazing team of medical professionals made the trek to bring much-needed healthcare services and education to
- [First Male Tiger in Bhutan Collared](https://www.bhutanfound.org/first-male-tiger-collared/) - The Bhutan Tiger Center radio-collars the first male tiger in Bhutan. After several months of hard work, a team of Bhutanese Tiger Biologists captured and collared the first male tiger in Royal Manas National Park (RMNP)! With both a male and female now collared with GPS trackers in the region, the team will be able
- [The River Guides of Panbang Trains Bhutan's First Female Safety Kayaker](https://www.bhutanfound.org/bhutan-trains-its-first-female-safety-kayaker/) - According to the 2017 population and housing census of Bhutan, youth (15-25 years old) unemployment stands at 10.6 percent, which presents an enormous challenge for a country that has just begun the process of graduating to a middle-income country (MIC). This high youth unemployment has a number of contributing factors, but the largest of those
- [Panbang BHU's New Generator Installed](https://www.bhutanfound.org/panbang-bhus-new-generator-installed/) - The difference between the old generator and the new is striking! We recently donated this new 15kVA generator to the Panbang Basic Health Unit (BHU). With this upgrade, we hope to help ensure the health and safety of the region by working to end brownouts and blackouts that have been so commonplace in Panbang -particularly
- [Marangdut Farmers Learn Seed Banking to Prevent Loss of Crop Diversity](https://www.bhutanfound.org/marangdut-farmers-lear-seed-banking-to-prevent-loss-of-crop-diversity/) - While on their study tour last month, a group of farmers from Marangdut in Pangbang visited the Dungsam Seed Bank in Dewathang. The farmers learned how to prepare their own seeds and preserve them for the next season. To prevent loss of crop diversity and address seasonal shortage of seeds, they were encouraged to create
- [VAST Bhutan Artists Paint New Mural at the Marangdut Jungle Lodge in Panbang](https://www.bhutanfound.org/vast-bhutan-artists-paint-new-mural-at-the-marangdut-jungle-lodge-in-panbang/) - What do you do with a blank wall? Add some color of course!Recently, artists from the VAST Bhutan (Voluntary Artist Studio, Thimphu) were invited to collaborate on a mural project at the newly renovated Marangdut Jungle Lodge in Panbang. These two 15m (50ft) long pieces brought together 11 master artists from VAST alongside local up-and-coming
- [Introducing PHENSEM Parent Support Group](https://www.bhutanfound.org/introducing-phensem-parent-support-group/) - We’d like to introduce one of our newest partners! This parent support group, primarily consisting of parents and family members of children with special needs, has partnered with us on our first activity: a five-day workshop titled “Preparing Inclusive Learning Communities in Primary School.” This workshop trained over 30 participants, mainly primary teachers, support teachers,
- [An Interview with Bhutan's First Female Physiotherapist](https://www.bhutanfound.org/an-interview-with-bhutans-first-woman-physiotherapist/) - This Women’s History Month, we're featuring Dr. Karma Lhaki, who is not just the first female physiotherapist in Bhutan, but also one of the pioneers of pediatric physiotherapy in the country! Nine years ago, as the first and only female physiotherapist in the country at the time, Dr. Karma was asked to begin the pediatric
- [Bhutan Foundation Supports Medical Professionals at Recent Conference on Assistive Technology](https://www.bhutanfound.org/bhutan-foundation-supports-medical-professionals-at-recent-conference-on-assistive-technology/) - Earlier this year, we supported Karma Phuntsho and Karma Wangchuk, a physiotherapist and physio technician respectively, from the Jigme Dorji National Referral Hospital in Thimphu, to attend a conference on using assistive technology to help individuals with disabilities. Participants included experts in the field of Assistive Technology (AT), rehabilitation professionals, engineers, software and app developers
- [Snow Leopards and Yak Herders in the Highlands](https://www.bhutanfound.org/snow-leopards-and-yak-herders-in-the-highlands/) - Yak herders and the snow leopards that often prey on yaks might seem like natural enemies, but in the Soe and Lingzhi regions of Jigme Dorji National Park (JDNP), herders are benefitting from initiatives that simultaneously address their needs and help conserve snow leopards. Herding villages have not resorted to retaliatory killing of snow leopards for the
- [BEAR Team Delivers Baby in the Air](https://www.bhutanfound.org/bear-team-delivers-baby-in-the-air/) - In the early morning hours of October 21, 2018, Sangay Rinzin, an expectant mother at 34 weeks, was airlifted by helicopter from Panbang in Southern Bhutan. Given Sangay’s history of two preterm deliveries and an unfortunate experience of losing her first son on the way to the Regional Referral Hospital, the Bhutan Emergency Aeromedical Retrieval
- [From the Village to the Palace: Restoring History](https://www.bhutanfound.org/from-the-village-to-the-palace-restoring-history/) - Sonam Tenzin is a 25-year-old project engineer working at the Wangduechhoeling Palace restoration site. He was born in Wangduechhoeling village—the home of his mother’s family. Sonam’s grandfather served at the palace during the reign of the Second King of Bhutan, Druk Gyalpo Jigme Wangchuck (1926-1952). Sonam’s family was one of the three families who conducted
- [Palace Painting Restoration is Underway](https://www.bhutanfound.org/palace-paining-restoration-is-underway/) - Restoration of several original paintings is currently underway at Wangduechhoeling Palace utilizing traditional methods of dye creation and paint mixing. These paints are made gluten-free to avoid insect damage and, with proper care, can last decades exposed to the elements in Bhutan's Bumthang Valley. Throughout the year, 51 students from the technical training institute trained
- [ER Physician Trains in Emergency Ultrasound Operations at Yale New Haven Hospital](https://www.bhutanfound.org/er-physician-trains-in-emergency-ultrasound-operations-at-yale-new-haven-hospital/) - Dr. Sona Pradhan, an ER Physician at Jigme Dorji Wangchuck National Referral Hospital in Bhutan, just finished an Emergency Ultrasound training at the Yale New Haven Hospital Department of Emergency Medicine! While there, she worked hands-on practicing the necessary skills to provide emergency ultrasounds allowing medical professionals to make lifesaving decisions. In her own words,
- [Field Notes: US Ambassador Visits Palace, Tanzima and Norbugang Visits, Tiger Day 2019](https://www.bhutanfound.org/field-notes-us-ambassador-visits-palace-tanzima-and-norbugang-visits-tiger-day-2019/) - US Ambassador to India Visits the Palace Project It was one year to the date of the US Ambassador’s visit to the Wangduechhoeling Palace that we were going through a brainstorming and planning session about the conservation of palace paintings with local conservators and international experts. We adopted several methodologies to carry out conservation and
- [Seven Nurses Undergo Training on Trauma and Critical Care](https://www.bhutanfound.org/seven-nurses-undergo-training-on-trauma-and-critical-care/) - The EMS Division under the ministry of Health sent seven nurses from seven hospitals in Bhutan to undergo training on Trauma and Critical Care at Kohn Kaen Trauma Center in Thailand --the WHO Collaborating Center for Safety Promotion and Injury Prevention. For seven days, these nurses developed proficiency in the management of critically ill and
- [Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) Training Takes Place at Wangdue](https://www.bhutanfound.org/advanced-cardiac-life-support-acls-training-takes-place-at-wangdue/) - This May saw another two days of Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) training at Wangdue! Throughout the training, 29 participants learned via theoretical and hands-on sessions with the latest information and skills to treat patients with cardiac arrest and other cardiovascular emergencies. This course works to simulate real clinical scenarios and encourages active learning and
- [2017 Youth Summit Students Tell Their Stories](https://www.bhutanfound.org/2017-youth-summit-students-tell-their-stories/) - What would you do if you had magic? These amazing kids tell their stories at the 2017 Youth Summit where students had the chance build their capacity as active citizens to engage as change-makers in Bhutan! The Bhutan Centre for Media and Democracy (BCMD) is working hard to bring forth this year's program, "Youth Summit
- [HEROES Update: Bhutan to have a scientific data repository to study climate change](https://www.bhutanfound.org/heroes-update/) - We are excited to support this integral research and data collection taking place in Bhutan right now through the HEROES project! In the coming years, this data could be invaluable for understanding the effects of climate change in the region. Excerpt from BBS Article: "For the first time, Bhutan will have scientific data to study
- [Students Plant Trees at Wangduechhoeling Palace](https://www.bhutanfound.org/students-plant-trees-at-wangduechhoeling-palace/) - This June 2nd, roughly 98 students from Wangduechhoeling Lower Secondary gathered on the grounds at the historic Wangduechhoeling Palace to plant and adopt saplings. This event, in honor of the Coronation Anniversary of His Majesty the Fourth Druk Gyalpo and Social Forestry Day in Bhutan, is part of an initiative to involve local communities in
- [Sr. Program Officer, Sonam Tobgyel Gives talk at Royal Thimphu College's Symposium on Social Participation for Bhutanese with Disabilities](https://www.bhutanfound.org/sr-program-officer-sonam-tobgyel-gives-talk-at-royal-thimphu-colleges-symposium-on-social-participation-for-bhutanese-with-disabilities/) - Our Senior Program Officer, Ms. Sonam Yangden Tobgyel, gave a talk on June 7th at the Royal Thimphu College’s Symposium on Social Participation for Bhutanese with Disabilities! Sonam has worked on our Special Education Program for the last six years and has been instrumental in helping to found and maintain some of our most successful
- [Perkins International Visits Bhutan](https://www.bhutanfound.org/perkins-international-visits-bhutan/) - Earlier this May, two separate consultation visits from Perkins International occurred regarding the Special Education program! The first visit, at Hejo ECCD, conducted a consultation to discuss transition plans for seven children at the school. These plans were reviewed by observing and assessing the children, holding talks with the facilitators, and meeting with the families
- [Addressing Wildlife Conflict in Jomolhari](https://www.bhutanfound.org/addressing-wildlife-conflict-in-jomolhari/) - Teams installed 1,165 meters of electric fencing at four sacred monasteries to mitigate Himalayan black bear rampages. The Bhutan Foundation's Jomolhari snow leopard conservation program aims to uplift the livelihoods of communities while conserving the threatened snow leopard. With that mission in mind, we have worked closely with the Jigme Dorji National Park and communities
- [Teaming with Yale School of Public Health to Build Capacity in Bhutan](https://www.bhutanfound.org/teaming-with-yale-school-of-public-health-to-build-capacity-in-bhutan/) - Part of our mission here at the Bhutan Foundation is to help build capacity for health-care providers across the country. With that in mind, we recently partnered with the Yale School of Public Health to support an advanced data analysis training in Paro! This five-day workshop saw a total of 20 participants from the Ministry
- [An Update from Green Pigment Arts](https://www.bhutanfound.org/an-update-from-green-pigment-arts/) - When we first started our partnership with Mr. Penjor Dorji and his enterprise, Green Pigment Arts (Natural Pigment Colour Production), back in 2017, we knew his efforts to revitalize traditional Bhutanese paints and dyes in his artwork would go far, and this June it went all the way to China! Recently, Penjor travelled to Kunming,
- [Marangdut Farmers' Group Trains in System of Rice Intensification (SRI)](https://www.bhutanfound.org/marangdut-farmers-group-trains-in-system-of-rice-intensification-sri/) - The Marangdut community in Panbang is excited to try out new farming techniques this season! The Marangdut Farmers' Group in Panbang took part in a three-day training on System of Rice Intensification. This technique, first piloted in Samdrup Jongkhar district as a collaboration between the Samdrup Jongkhar Initiative and the Bhutan Foundation, drastically increased rice
- [Children's Art Contest Winners for International Tiger Day 2019](https://www.bhutanfound.org/childrens-art-contest-winners-for-international-tiger-day/) - Celebrations in Bhutan kicked off this morning by announcing the winners from the children's Art and Storytelling Contest! This year's impressive winners in each of the three categories include Phuntsho Namgyel, Grade Two; Sonam Phuntsho, Grade Four; and Pema Longdrel, Grade Six. Their hard work will be brought together and printed in educational materials for
- [Healthcare Workers Attend Five-Day Training with Yale School of Public Health](https://www.bhutanfound.org/healthcare-workers-attend-five-day-training-with-yale-school-of-public-health/) - As part of our mission to strengthen the capacity of healthcare workers in Bhutan, the Bhutan Foundation supported the second training for members of the Internal Review Board (IRB) of Khesar Gyelpo University of Medical Science! This five-day training was led by local and international facilitators from the Yale School of Public Health and covered
- [International Tiger Day Theme Song](https://www.bhutanfound.org/international-tiger-day-theme-song/) - We wanted to thank you all so much for donating to the Save the Tigers campaign this July! As a special treat, please enjoy this Tiger Day Theme Song -a collaborative work with the Bhutan Tiger Center, Department of Forests and Park Services, and Leo Entertainment. TIGER DAY THEME SONG LYRICS A tiger with beautiful stripes
- [System of Rice Intensification Process Takes Root in Marangdut](https://www.bhutanfound.org/system-of-rice-intensification-process-takes-root-in-marangdut/) - The System of Rice Intensification (SRI) project is in full swing! This phase brought together the enthusiastic Marangdut farming group to be trained on rice transplantation and bio pest management. The lead farmer from the Samdrup Jongkhar Initiatives (SJI) worked alongside the farming groups while educating them on the importance of close monitoring after transplantation.
- [Donate, Win, and Save Tigers in Bhutan!](https://www.bhutanfound.org/donate-win-save-tigers-bhutan/) - Don't Miss an Opportunity to Win a 9-Night Luxury Stay for Two in the Magical Kingdom of Bhutan Valued at $18,850! In collaboration with the Amankora resort and Kora Tigers Cycling Team, Bhutan Foundation has set a goal to raise $250,000 for the Save the Tigers Initiative. The Initiative is being led by the Regional Center for
- [Field Notes from Our Executive Director, Tshewang Wangchuk](https://www.bhutanfound.org/field-notes-from-our-executive-director-tshewang-wangchuk/) - A big source of inspiration for me is our work on the ground. That is why I value field visits to our projects. Having just returned from Bhutan, I would like to share an account with you.July 29 is celebrated across the world as International Tiger Day or Global Tiger Day. On that day, the
- [Perkins Braillers Delivered to the Ministry of Education](https://www.bhutanfound.org/perkins-braillers-delivered-to-the-ministry-of-education/) - This September, we handed over 11 Perkins Braillers to the Ministry of Education! These Braillers were sent to Muenselling Institute, Khaling in Trashigang to aid visually impaired students and teachers in writing -particularly in regards to symbols in higher maths and science. A special thank you to our partners at Perkins International (Perkins School for
- [Her Majesty Gyalyum Tseyring Pem Wangchuck Unveils First Bhutanese-Focused Traditional Medicine Textbook](https://www.bhutanfound.org/her-majesty-gyalyum-tsyering-pem-wangchuck-unveils-first-bhutanese-focused-traditional-medicine-textbook/) - For Immediate Release THIMPHU, Bhutan, 16 October 2019, Her Majesty Gyalyum Tseyring Pem Wangchuck, Co-Chair of the Bhutan Foundation, will preside over the Foundation’s 2019 Annual Board Meeting and Dinner at the Terma Linca Resort and Spa on Thursday, 17 October at 6:30 pm. The dinner will feature guests and speakers from the Royal Government
- [Public Health Big Data Conference Concludes Today in Thimphu](https://www.bhutanfound.org/public-health-data-conference-ends-today-in-thimphu/) - The Big Data for Health Conference came to a close today here in Thimphu. This two day series of talks brought industry leaders in artificial intelligence (AI) and big data from around the globe to discuss possibilities for developing Bhutan's healthcare system with the future in mind. Engineers and doctors from institutions like Google Health
- [Made in Bhutan: Entrepreneur Stories  by Loden Foundation Celebrates 10th Anniversary](https://www.bhutanfound.org/made-in-bhutan-entrepreneur-stories-by-loden-foundation-celebrates-10th-anniversary/) - Made in Bhutan: entrepreneur stories is a celebration of the 10th anniversary of the Loden Entrepreneurship Programme (LEP). LEP has trained about 3,180 young people and contributed to the creation of over 700 jobs through funding 153 entrepreneurial ventures. The projects are spread across 18 of the 20 districts of Bhutan. Beyond financing, Loden provides mentoring and
- [CSOs Join the UN and CSO Authority for a Two-Day Training](https://www.bhutanfound.org/csos-join-the-un-and-cso-authority-for-a-two-day-training/) - Participants from CSOs in Bhutan work on funding and program plans in a two-day workshop in Thimphu. This week, 22 participants from various registered Civil Society Organizations, community-based organizations, and international non-profit organizations took part in a two-day workshop on CSO capacity building in collaboration with the United Nations in Bhutan and Civil Society Organization
- [Students Train on Traditional Mineral Paints for Palace Restoration](https://www.bhutanfound.org/students-train-on-traditional-mineral-paints-for-palace-restoration/) - What goes into restoring 19th century murals at the palace that birthed Bhutan's monarchy? Time, hard work, specialized training, and a whole lot of paint! This year, 17 students from the Institute of Zorig Chusum trained in the conservation and use of traditional mineral paints. Their knowledge, along with that of countless other workers, is
- [HEROES Receives National Energy Globe Award in the Youth Category](https://www.bhutanfound.org/heroes-receives-national-energy-globe-award-in-the-youth-category/) - Bhutan's HEROES just got recognition on the international stage! The Himalayan Environmental Rhythms Observation and Evaluation System (HEROES) program, well-known for their hard work in student-led climate change data gathering, was recently honored with the National Energy Globe Award in the youth category. There to receive the award in Espoo, Finland on behalf of HEROES
- [Field Notes: Witnessing Change in Special Education at Mongar MSS](https://www.bhutanfound.org/field-notes-witnessing-change-in-special-education-at-mongar-mss/) - Happy Thanksgiving! This past Thursday, while sitting around the table with family and friends, I was thinking about what I'm most thankful for this year. With that in mind, I'm pleased to share a story from my most recent visit to Bhutan along with friends, family, supporters, and people who are committed to Bhutan—LIKE YOU!
- [Nomad Health Camps Expand Services in the Highlands](https://www.bhutanfound.org/nomad-health-camps-expand-services-in-highlands/) - It's no secret that human and animal health are related to one another, and this year's Nomadic Health Camp took that idea to heart! In addition to working with local nomadic communities to provide medical care, the Nomadic Health team also brought along veterinary professionals to treat local animals and livestock. These additional services, including
- [SRI Project Visit in Marangdut](https://www.bhutanfound.org/sri-project-visit-in-marangdut/) - While it's still a bit too early to know the exact results of the new System of Rice Intensification (SRI), we did get some interesting news on our most recent trip to Marangdut to visit the SRI program's farmers this October! During our visit, we spoke to several villagers in the area who reported an
- [International Day of Persons with Disabilities](https://www.bhutanfound.org/international-day-of-persons-with-disabilities/) - Today the first National Policy of Persons with Disabilities in Bhutan is launched. In line with the year's theme of “Promoting the participation of persons with disabilities and their leadership”, we've joined an eventful morning organized by Selwa and other relevant stakeholders to launch the first National Policy of Persons with Disabilities in Bhutan! This
- ["Change Begins With Me" BCMD Hosts Youth Summit in Eastern Bhutan](https://www.bhutanfound.org/change-begins-with-me-bcmd-hosts-youth-summit-in-eastern-bhutan/) - "Change begins with me" is the theme of the day for the BCMD's Youth Summit! This year's event, held for the first time in the East of Bhutan, focused on giving young people in Bhutan the resources and skills they need to become effective changemakers--no matter their age or socio-economic background. We're delighted to support
- [Happy Holidays!](https://www.bhutanfound.org/happy-holidays/) - You help make a difference! We'd like to offer all of you our sincere gratitude for all of your support this past year. Your donations, likes, shares, and enthusiasm keep our programs going. Thank you and Happy Holidays! —The Bhutan Foundation Team
- [Snow Leopard Conservation Education Games Developed for Highland Schools](https://www.bhutanfound.org/snow-leopard-conservation-education-games-developed-for-highland-schools/) - Board Games, Books, and Puzzles promoting snow leopard conservation are delivered to schools in the highlands. As part of the Bhutan Foundation’s efforts to promote snow leopard conservation education in highland communities, children in select schools across Bhutan, namely Lingzhi primary in Thimphu and Katsho Lower Secondary in Haa, are receiving their snow leopard board
- [BEAR Team Featured in Air Medical Journal](https://www.bhutanfound.org/bear-team-featured-in-air-medical-journal/) - Since its inception in 2017, the BEAR team has treated more than 200 people while compiling 17,000+ flight hours. A special congratulations to the BEAR-Bhutan Emergency Aeromedical Retrieval team for being featured in the Air Medical Journal! The article covers the BEAR Team’s first year in operation as the first Emergency Air Medical Retrieval Service
- [Wangduechhoeling Palace Receives "Emergency Preparedness for Cultural Heritage Under Threat" Grant](https://www.bhutanfound.org/wangduechhoeling-palace-receives-emergency-preparedness-for-cultural-heritage-under-threat-grant/) - Bhutan's monarchy was born at Wangduechhoeling Palace which stands today as a landmark of Bhutanese cultural practice and history. However, the building, currently undergoing restoration work to be converted into a museum and cultural center, remains susceptible to natural and man-made disasters from fire due to its wooden architecture. This week, we’re able to confirm
- [Addressing Tiger Poaching with Compassion](https://www.bhutanfound.org/addressing-tiger-poaching-with-compassion/) - Local communities, like the Dhongag Tenpailing Monastery in Norbugang, are helping to lead the way in utilizing conservation with compassion to end illegal wildlife poaching in their backyards. Their efforts, supported by the Bhutan Foundation in collaboration with the Global Tiger Center (GTC) and the Royal Manas National Park (RMNP) are encouraging poachers to give
- [Marangdut Farmers Attend a Training on Seed Preparation](https://www.bhutanfound.org/marangdut-farmers-attend-a-training-on-seed-preparation/) - A local farmers group in Marangdut attended a training with the Samdrup Jongkhar Initiative. Last week, twelve community members from Marangdut Farmers Group attended a one-day training on seed preparation for vegetables in collaboration with The Samdrup Jongkhar Initiative (SJI). This training, intended to help encourage a sustainable vegetable seed source for food growers in
- [Panbang Students Join River Guides for Learning Activities](https://www.bhutanfound.org/panbang-students-join-river-guides-for-learning-activities/) - The Clean Panbang Club joins the River Guides of Panbang to study local biodiversity! Local student members of the Clean Panbang Club were excited to explore their community's biodiversity by learning the basics about river rafting and birdwatching, last week! These activities, supported by the Bhutan Foundation and led by our local partners at the
- [First Confirmed Coronavirus Case in Bhutan](https://www.bhutanfound.org/first-confirmed-coronavirus-case-in-bhutan/) - Bhutan has confirmed the first case of Coronavirus this morning. The patient is a 76-year-old tourist from the United States of America. He had entered the country from Paro International Airport, after embarking Drukair flight KB241 from Guwahati, India on March 2. Adhering to the National Preparedness and Response Plan, and the operating procedures in
- [Bhutan’s Only COVID-19 Patient Flies Home](https://www.bhutanfound.org/bhutans-only-covid-19-patient-flies-home/) - With the lone COVID-19 positive patient evacuated to his country, the USA yesterday, Bhutan, for now, is free of COVID-19. The 76-year-old American tourist left the country for further medical treatment following request from his family members and in close coordination with the US government through its mission in Delhi. The patient was evacuated in
- [COVID-19: Bhutanese returning home from abroad poses bigger threat: PM](https://www.bhutanfound.org/covid-19-bhutanese-returning-home-from-abroad-poses-bigger-threat-pm/) - With the lone positive COVID-19 patient evacuated to the USA yesterday, Bhutanese travellers returning home pose the biggest threat of bringing in the virus. Lyonchhen said all incoming travellers must declare their travel history entirely and honestly to the officials at the entry points. Two Bhutanese who lied about their travel history were detained by
- [Daughter of COVID-19 patient thanks Bhutan, PM, and the health staff](https://www.bhutanfound.org/daughter-of-covid-19-patient-thanks-bhutan-pm-and-the-health-staff/) - Prayers from Bhutanese kept family going, says daughter “The prayers, the people of Bhutan offered for my father kept my family and me going during this very difficult time.” In an apperception letter to Prime Minister Dr Lotay Tshering, the daughter of the first COVID-19 patient in Bhutan, the 76-year-old American tourist, Catherine Miller, said
- [All Travelers Entering Bhutan will be Quarantined](https://www.bhutanfound.org/all-travelers-entering-bhutan-will-be-quarantined/) - All travellers, including Bhutanese, coming to Bhutan will be quarantined in a designated quarantine facility for two weeks with effect from yesterday. However, minors below 18 years would be sent for home quarantine. Health minister Dechen Wangmo, announced this during the press briefing on COVID-19 yesterday. Clarifying the confusion about quarantining people, she said quarantine
- [First phase of Economic Stimulus Plan for the Hardest Hit: PM](https://www.bhutanfound.org/first-phase-of-economic-stimulus-plan-for-the-hardest-hit-pm/) - Government to inject liquidity into banks The government is planning to roll out an economic stimulus plan within a few days for the most affected sectors to help them cope with the unprecedented economic impact of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. Prime Minister Dr Lotay Tshering at the press briefing yesterday said that the government
- [“The patient and our team became like a family”](https://www.bhutanfound.org/the-patient-and-our-team-became-like-a-family/) - The unsung heroes who treated the first Covid-19 patient shares their story In the evening of March 5, when the country was in deep slumber, a team of doctors and nurses including support staff at the national referral hospital were dealing with a possible Covid-19 positive patient. Hours later, Bhutan confirmed its first positive Covid-19 case, an imported
- [American Tourist’s Partner Tests Positive After Fourth Test](https://www.bhutanfound.org/american-tourists-partner-tests-positive-after-fourth-test/) - Government will maintain the status quo on its preparedness plans and strategies The ‘extra’ precaution Bhutan has taken in handling the Covid-19 situation has proven to be practical in detecting the country’s second positive case yesterday. The partner of the 76-year-old index case (patient zero) who was air evacuated to the USA on March 13,
- [His Majesty Addresses The Nation On COVID-19](https://www.bhutanfound.org/his-majesty-addresses-the-nation-on-covid-19/) - English translation of His Majesty the King’s address Starting today, our land borders will be sealed. We are compelled to take this drastic measure in light of the Covid-19 pandemic. As you have been made aware through various government bulletins, the virus is spreading, causing immense disruption worldwide, and drawing closer to us each day.
- [Press Release: Bhutan Foundation Donates Nu 1.13m in Medical Supplies](https://www.bhutanfound.org/bhutan-foundation-donates-nu-1-13m-in-medical-supplies/) - Thimphu, Bhutan, March 24, 2020: Today, the Bhutan Foundation officially handed over a 40-foot shipping container carrying donated medical supplies and equipment worth Nu. 1.13 million to the Ministry of Health, Bhutan.“ These much-needed supplies have come in timely during the COVID-19 crisis and are being fully utilized,” said a Bhutanese health official. Donated medical
- [Press Release from Prime Minister’s Office](https://www.bhutanfound.org/press-release-from-prime-ministers-office/) - March 27, 2020 As we strive to stay ahead of the spread of coronavirus, with His Majesty’s guidance, the government has introduced highest level of preventive measures all along. This includes recent closure of all border gates early this week. Reinforced by an efficient containment system, the government is making efforts to come out of
- [Free Snow Leopard e-Books Available Online](https://www.bhutanfound.org/free-snow-leopard-e-books-available-online/) - As the COVID-19 situation deteriorates around the world, many countries have already closed schools and institutions to help control the spread of the virus. Bhutan is no different. Currently, all schools and educational centers are closed indefinitely for the safety of the students and their families. To help families and their loved ones come together
- [Hawai'i and the Himalayas Meet for a COVID Concert](https://www.bhutanfound.org/hawaii-and-the-himalayas-meet-for-a-covid-concert/) - On Friday, April 17, enter the worlds of award-winning artists Keola Beamer and Jigme Drukpa as they bring together the sounds of the Himalayas and Hawai`i in a free livestream concert and interactive Q&A session. The show will take the audience across the world from the islands of Hawai`i with legendary artist Keola Beamer, a
- [Wangduechhoeling Palace: Bridging the Past with the Future](https://www.bhutanfound.org/wangduechhoeling-palace-bridging-the-past-with-the-future/) - Now begins the largest undertaking yet as the scope of the Wangduechhoeling Palace Project transforms and repurposes the birthplace of Bhutan’s monarchy into a museum, educational, and cultural heritage site. The palace will become a model for an adaptive re-use of an old heritage site and building for modern use, with proper fire mitigation strategies
- [COVID-19 Update: EMS Training Programs on Hold](https://www.bhutanfound.org/covid-19-update-ems-training-programs-on-hold/) - The Jigme Dorji Wangchuck National Referral Hospital (JDWNRH), located in the capital city of Thimphu, is Bhutan's only tertiary level hospital and key to managing COVID-19 cases in Bhutan. Planned EMS training programs are on hold while health-care personnel attend to the current situation. Instead, the Bhutan Foundation has worked with the Ministry of Health
- [COVID-19 Update: Schools Closed](https://www.bhutanfound.org/covid-19-update-schools-closed/) - All schools in Bhutan remain closed due to social distancing protocols following the COVID-19 pandemic. While this has put a hold on a number of programs that we planned to implement in the schools, we have since provided guidelines for parents and teachers of children with special education needs online. These guidelines provide everyday lesson
- [COVID-19 Update: Local Projects On Hold](https://www.bhutanfound.org/covid-19-update-local-projects-on-hold/) - The Snow Leopard Conservation Program, is currently on hold while national responses to the pandemic take precedence. In lieu of in-person deliveries, we have made our Snow Leopard Readers available for free online with more than 2,000+ downloads so far.
- [COVID-19 Update: Nomad Health Camps On Hold](https://www.bhutanfound.org/covid-19-update-nomad-health-camps-on-hold/) - For many of the nomadic communities in Bhutan, including Bumthang, Merak, Sakteng, and Sephu, the regular Nomadic Health Camps currently scheduled remain up in the air as healthcare teams prepare for worst-case pandemic. As of now, we hope that camps could be conducted as scheduled this fall.
- [HEREOS Update COVID-19](https://www.bhutanfound.org/hereos-update-covid-19/) - Due to the restrictions in place, all 20 schools under the HEROES (Himalayan Environmental Rhythm Observation and Evaluation System) program are closed. Although phenological data collection is on hold, weather data through the weather stations are still being collected. In addition, our partners at Ugyen Wangchuck Institute for Conservation and Environmental Research (UWICER) are using
- [Bhutan Foundation Supports a Start-Up Vegetable Garden for Two Visually Impaired Entrepreneurs](https://www.bhutanfound.org/bhutan-foundation-supports-a-start-up-vegetable-garden-for-two-visually-impaired-entrepreneurs/) - Through our Small Grants program, two visually impaired persons–Mr. Dorji Nedup and Mr. Tshering Dorji–recently created a start-up vegetable garden as a response to the slow down in their businesses due to COVID-19. After acquiring ten decimals of land for their garden in Thimphu, as well as gathering all the necessary tools, both Dorji and
- [Bhutan Foundation Contributes Nu. 12 Million To His Majesty's Kidu Fund for COVID-19](https://www.bhutanfound.org/bhutan-foundation-contributes-nu-12-million-to-his-majestys-kidu-fund-for-covid-19/) - The Bhutan Foundation, upon the command of its co-chair, Her Majesty Gyalyum Tseyring Pem Wangchuck, offered a contribution of Twelve Million Ngultrum to His Majesty’s Kidu Fund for COVID-19 through the Office of the Gyalpoi Zimpon. This contribution to the COVID-19 fund is a gesture of gratitude and deep respect for the tireless efforts of
- [School Design Guidelines Launched](https://www.bhutanfound.org/school-design-guidelines-launched/) - The Ministry of Education and the Bhutan Foundation jointly launched the School Design Guidelines for the school projects on June 24, 2020. With a mandatory requirement of sustainable and safe infrastructures for all school-going children, the guideline primarily focuses on proper planning, selection of new construction sites, resiliency for disaster, designing of safe structures, and maintenance at
- [The Wangduechhoeling Palace is Featured in Architectural Digest](https://www.bhutanfound.org/the-wangduechhoeling-palace-is-featured-in-architectural-digest/) - Architectural Digest featured the Wangduechhoeling Palace in its latest online release! Be sure to check out the article here.
- [A Message from Dr. Tempa for the 10th International Tiger Day](https://www.bhutanfound.org/a-message-from-dr-tempa-for-the-10th-international-tiger-day/) - Today marks the world's 10th International Tiger Day as well as 10 years of partnership between the Bhutan Foundation and the Bhutan Tiger Center, under the Department of Forests and Park Services (DoFPS)! For the past decade, we've been working together to protect Bhutan's mountain tigers by promoting conservation education, anti-poaching, and tiger monitoring research
- [PHENSEM is Registered as a CSO in Bhutan!](https://www.bhutanfound.org/phensem-is-registered-as-a-cso-in-bhutan/) - Congratulations to PHENSEM for formally being registered as a CSO in Bhutan! They were awarded the registration certificate by the Civil Society Organization Authority on July 30th as a Public Benefit Organization. We're happy to have supported PHENSEM from its inception as Bhutan's first registered parent support group and look forward to continuing our work
- [Woman Tests Positive for Covid-19 After Five Tests Locking Down the Entire Country](https://www.bhutanfound.org/woman-tests-positie-positive-for-covid-19-after-five-tests-locking-down-the-entire-country/) - As words of the nationwide lockdown spread in the early hours yesterday, many left the capital city and headed for their homes in other dzongkhags. Similarly those in the neighbouring dzongkhags rushed back to the capital as the government announced travel restrictions. The Prime Minister’s Office announced on its Facebook page that the government was
- [[Video] Advancing STEM Education for Bhutanese Students a Webinar with the Bhutan Foundation and NASA DEVELOP](https://www.bhutanfound.org/advancing-stem-education-for-bhutanese-students-a-webinar-with-the-bhutan-foundation-and-nasa-develop/) - The next generation of innovators is already here! Join us to hear from the first all-Bhutanese cohort of NASA DEVELOP students as they report their findings on elephant habitats and climate change in Bhutan.Guest speakers from NASA, UTEP, and the Bhutan Foundation will participate.
- [Parents Create Dream Maps for Transition Planning](https://www.bhutanfound.org/parents-create-dream-maps-for-transition-planning/) - Day 1 of online workshops for PHENSEM was fun and productive! Parents created dream maps for their children which is part of the transition planning process. We eagerly wait for our session tomorrow where we will continue to work with the parents and invite teachers from various schools to work together to make the dream
- [Feeding Animals Affected by COVID-19](https://www.bhutanfound.org/feeding-animals-affected-by-covid-19/) - It must have been confusing for dogs like Rochi when the normally teeming streets of Thimphu emptied to nothing almost overnight. Following business closures, school cancellations, and social distancing orders across the country, the delicious smells from local restaurants, hotels, and even pocket scraps from passers-by dwindled, and bellies like hers went hungry. Despite the
- [Bhutan’s Covid-19 story](https://www.bhutanfound.org/bhutans-covid-19-story/) - The story continues Bhutanese were startled out of sleep in the early hours of March 6, when the Prime minister’s Office announced on social media the first novel coronavirus case in the country. Prime Minister Dr Lotay Tshering announced the details over live television from the courtyard of the Parliament building, which was to host
- [Translation of His Majesty The King’s Address to the People of Bhutan](https://www.bhutanfound.org/translation-of-his-majesty-the-kings-address-to-the-people-of-bhutan/) - Last month, the threat of the pandemic became very real for Bhutan when the first COVID-19 cases were detected outside the quarantine facilities. It was extremely worrying to find several positive cases, in more than one place. Those who contracted the virus and their loved ones have suffered a great deal of anxiety. A nationwide
- [Bhutan Foundation Donates 200,000 Non-Medical Face Masks to Bhutan](https://www.bhutanfound.org/bhutan-foundation-donates-200000-non-medical-face-masks-to-bhutan/) - September 17, 2020, Thimphu: The Bhutan Foundation handed over 200,000 non-medical face masks to the Ministry of Health, Royal Government of Bhutan for distribution to vulnerable communities, including the elderly population and pregnant women, to prevent the spread of COVID-19. The donation is part of the ongoing “Bhutan Emergency COVID-19 Response and Health System Preparedness” activity supported by the U.S. Agency
- [[Video] Bhutan Blocks Released to Help Create More Inclusive Classrooms](https://www.bhutanfound.org/bhutan-blocks-released-to-help-create-more-inclusive-classrooms/) - Students with disabilities in Bhutan now have a uniquely inclusive and uniquely Bhutanese set of toys for classroom learning! Bhutan Blocks are the next step in our efforts, in partnership with the Perkins School for the Blind and Hejo Day Care, to help create more inclusive classrooms for students in Bhutan. These educational blocks have
- [Thousands #RunWild for Tiger Protection in Bhutan](https://www.bhutanfound.org/thousand-runwild-for-tiger-protection-in-bhutan/) - The world had its eyes on Bhutan this fall when 563,887+ participants joined up to run with a young tiger mother, Tendrel Zangmo, for tiger conservation awareness! Long-time supporters of the Bhutan Foundation may remember Tendrel as the first tiger ever caught and radio-collared by a fully Bhutanese team—a project supported by the Bhutan Foundation
- [NASA DEVELOP Applications Open to Bhutanese Students in USA](https://www.bhutanfound.org/nasa-develop-applications-open-to-bhutanese-students-in-usa/) - A great opportunity for Bhutanese students in the United States! The NASA DEVELOP Program will be offering part-time Bhutan opportunities for the spring 2021 term. The spring 2021 term will be conducted virtually, with all participants working remotely from within the United States. The NASA DEVELOP spring 2021 term begins on January 25th and concludes
- [River Guides of Panbang Awarded a Certificate of Appreciation from His Majesty](https://www.bhutanfound.org/river-guides-of-panbang-awarded-a-certificate-of-appreciation-from-his-majesty/) - Congratulations to our partners at the River Guides of Panbang (RGP) for being awarded a certificate of appreciation by His Majesty The King!In the recent lockdown, the RGP team offered their facility–Marang Jungle Lodge–to the Dessups in Panbang during the critical needs of the hour. We applaud our youth group for serving the country in
- [[Video] Snow Leopard Festival Goes Online During COVID-19](https://www.bhutanfound.org/snow-leopard-festival-goes-online-during-covid/) - Due to COVID-19, many events both in Bhutan and across the globe have been indefinitely shut down, but this doesn’t have to mean that they are entirely cancelled! The Bhutan Foundation partnered with the Snow Leopard Conservancy to host a virtual event during what would have been the date for the Jomolhari Mountain Festival 2020.
- [Managing a Pandemic: Bhutan's Experience on the Frontlines of COVID-19](https://www.bhutanfound.org/managing-a-pandemic-bhutans-experience-on-the-frontlines-of-covid-19/) - Bhutan’s leadership has received international attention for its quick and compassionate response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Successes so far have included timely rollouts of contact tracing, closure policies, medical interventions, and economic aid. Join the Bhutan Foundation to hear from Yale School of Public Health Alumna, Her Excellency Lyonpo Dechen Wangmo, about Bhutan’s healthcare system
- [Bhutan Health Journal Vol 6, Issue 1 Released](https://www.bhutanfound.org/bhutan-health-journal-vol-6-issue-1-released/) - Congratulations to the Khesar Gyalpo University of Medical Sciences of Bhutan (KGUMSB) on the launch of Volume 6, Issue 1 of the Bhutan Health Journal (BHJ) this October! The team produced their first print issue of Volume 6 during a three-day in-house training for authors and reviewers on the Editorial Board. The workshop, supported by
- [Kuzoo Radio First Episodes Reach an Estimated 40,000-45,000 Listeners in Bhutan](https://www.bhutanfound.org/kuzoo-radio-first-episodes-reach-an-estimated-40000-45000-listeners-in-bhutan/) - You can listen to episodes like these by streaming here.
- [Wangduechhoeling Palace Offers New Opportunities During COVID-19](https://www.bhutanfound.org/wangduechhoeling-palace-offers-new-opportunities-during-covid-19/) - Chimmi is a tour guide and, like many of his colleagues in the tourism sector, lost his only source of income when the pandemic started. The pandemic upended the tourism industry in Bhutan—the second largest source of revenue—and left some 50,000 Bhutanese unemployed as a result. Chimmi is now working for Green Bhutan Corporation Limited
- [Tiger Tales from Bhutan: Stories from the Front Lines of Tiger Conservation](https://www.bhutanfound.org/tiger-tales-from-bhutan-stories-from-the-front-lines-of-tiger-conservation/) - Hear stories from tiger biologists in Bhutan about work on the front lines of big cat conservation. One of the most mysterious, elusive, and charismatic animals in the wild, tigers have captured the imaginations of people for centuries. They’ve inspired cultures, religions, and stories alike—particularly in Bhutan where the tiger remains an important symbol. However,
- [NASA DEVELOP Program’s First All-Bhutanese Cohort conduct research remotely to address on-the-ground issues](https://www.bhutanfound.org/nasa-develop-programs-first-all-bhutanese-cohort-conduct-research-remotely-to-address-on-the-ground-issues/) - “This ten-week program has opened my eyes to how we can use Earth Observations to benefit our society,” says Sonam Choden, a Bhutanese college student working with NASA DEVELOP’s summer internship program. Throughout the program’s first launch this summer, students from Thimphu to Gelephug studying in the United States teamed up with NASA scientists to
- [Remote Learning is Engaging Children with Special Needs](https://www.bhutanfound.org/remote-learning-is-engaging-children-with-special-needs/) - It’s Tuesday, and Karma Lham is excited to begin her multimedia class for the week. She carries her books and pencils in a little white bag, and walks over to the Bhutan Foundation office with her mother for morning lessons. Karma is always gregarious and greets everyone in the office as she walks into the
- [UTC Basic Level Service Training for Addiction Professionals](https://www.bhutanfound.org/utc-basic-level-service-training-for-addiction-professionals/) - Trainings began this weekend for Addiction Professionals to reduce health, social, and economic issues associated with substance use disorders. Over the weekend, our team in Thimphu helped launch a new training for counselors in Universal Treatment Curriculum (UTC) Basic Level Services for Addiction Professionals in collaboration with the Bhutan Institute of Wellbeing (BIW) and the
- [Watch "Snow Leopard and Norbu the Cat" Read in Braille and Bhutan Sign Language](https://www.bhutanfound.org/video-watch-snow-leopard-and-norbu-the-cat-read-in-braille-and-bhutan-sign-language/) - We're Celebrating International Snow Leopard Day and International Persons with Disabilities Day online with local artists and students. Everyone has something to contribute to the conservation of Bhutan's snow leopards—especially the youth! That's why, to celebrate International Snow Leopard Day and International Day of Persons with Disabilities, we're raising awareness with local young deaf and
- [Donate Today to Double Your Impact for the BCMD](https://www.bhutanfound.org/donate-today-to-double-your-impact-for-the-bcmd/) - Great news! You have a chance to have your donation matched at 200% this week if you give as a monthly donor to the Bhutan Centre for Media and Democracy (BCMD) via #GlobalGiving. BCMD's programs, to help inspire active citizens and encourage public discourse, are an important component of maintaining a healthy democracy. Join us
- [National Solidarity: Bhutan’s Unique Response to the Covid-19 Pandemic](https://www.bhutanfound.org/national-solidarity-bhutans-unique-response-to-the-covid-19-pandemic/) - The ongoing pandemic, which originated from a newly emerged coronavirus, SARS-CoV-2, in December last year, to date has consumed the world with more than seventy plus million confirmed human infection cases and with over a million deaths across 210 countries and territories till date. Given its magnitude of impact on everything worldly from how we
- [Urgent Notice: Thimphu Lockdown](https://www.bhutanfound.org/urgent-notice-thimphu-lockdown/) - This is to inform the public that Thimphu Thromde will be under lockdown with immediate effect. All are requested to stay home. All offices, institutions and business entities shall remain closed until further notice. While all outbound travelers will be stopped, only emergencies and essential incoming movements into Thimphu will be considered. A 25-year-old female,
- [Press Release: Nationwide Lockdown](https://www.bhutanfound.org/press-release-nationwide-lockdown/) - A nationwide lockdown will be enforced for seven days, starting tomorrow (December 23, 2020).In continuation to the inter-district movement restriction imposed this morning, the National COVID-19 Taskforce decided the need for a more stringent action after detection of sporadic cases in flu clinics in Thimphu and Paro, and also in Lhamoizingkha, which is evident of
- [Thank You and Happy Holidays!](https://www.bhutanfound.org/thank-you-and-happy-holidays/) - We hope you take a moment to enjoy the video above detailing the work you've made happen this year! You can also read all about these stories and more in Remote Not Removed: Bhutan Foundation Annual Report 2020. Thank you and Happy Holidays from all of us at the Bhutan Foundation!
- [Bhutan records first Covid-19 death](https://www.bhutanfound.org/bhutan-records-first-covid-19-death/) - The man dies of liver failure complications while also Covid-19 positive A 34-year-old man with pre-existing medical condition became the country’s first casualty from the Covid-19 pandemic, Sowai Lyonpo (health minister) Dechen Wangmo confirmed late last night. The death comes amidst the local outbreak in Thimphu and Paro, where 17 positive cases are detected daily on
- [Bhutan Foundation Supports QuickBooks Training for CSOs in Bhutan](https://www.bhutanfound.org/bhutan-foundation-supports-quickbook-training-for-csos-in-bhutan/) - With the country in lockdown, virtual training continues for local CSOs. This January, our team supported a four-day virtual QuickBooks training for 11 participants from different CSOs in Bhutan. The workshop brought together new users and experienced users looking to refresh their knowledge of the software. QuickBooks accounting software is popular amongst nonprofit and small
- [Lockdown Ceases Today in 18 Dzongkhags](https://www.bhutanfound.org/lockdown-ceases-today-in-18-dzongkhags/) - With no positive case detected during the three-day mass screening programme, the national Covid-19 taskforce (NC19TF) decided to lift the lockdown restrictions starting today in dzongkhags other than Thimphu and Paro. This means that 25 days after the second nationwide lockdown was enforced, life in the 18 dzongkhags would return to normal (within the Covid-19
- [Thimphu and Paro Begin Unlocking](https://www.bhutanfound.org/thimphu-and-paro-begin-unlocking/) - Mega zones to be observed for another week before declaring green Much to the relief of residents in Thimphu and Paro, the national Covid-19 taskforce (NC19TF) has initiated the first phase unlocking in the two red zones since Sunday. This means that the initial understanding of maintaining zero positive case from the community for 14
- [Bhutan receives 150,000 doses of Covishield vaccine from India](https://www.bhutanfound.org/bhutan-receives-150000-doses-of-covishield-vaccine-from-india/) - Press Release January 20, 2021 An AN32 glided its way into the Paro valley around 3.25 pm today, ferrying Bhutan's first consignment of COVID-19 vaccine. The aircraft of Indian Air Force delivered 150,000 doses of Covishield vaccines from India, making Bhutan the first country to receive the gift, just four days after India's own massive
- [Paro transitions to green zone](https://www.bhutanfound.org/paro-transitions-to-green-zone/) - After more than a month’s lockdown, six gewogs and Paro Throm will be declared green zone from today. Naja, Dogar, Doteng and Tsento gewogs were declared green zone from January 17. With no community cases in 21 days, the dzongkhag task force decided to unlock the zones with certain restrictions. More than 6,000 residents of Paro yellow
- [Loden-Bhutan Foundation Covid-19 Response Grant Application Open](https://www.bhutanfound.org/loden-bhutan-foundation-covid-19-response-grant-application-open/) - The application deadline is on or before 5 pm, 10th February 2021. For detailed information, click here or contact Mr. Lhakpa, Programme Officer of the Loden Foundation at 17609035. The following information is from the Loden Foundation. Please click here for more information or to apply today. Application Process: The interested applicants must submit the
- [Unlocking Thimphu and beyond](https://www.bhutanfound.org/unlocking-thimphu-and-beyond/) - Press Release 29 January, 20201: In what is the convergence of His Majesty's blessings, prayers of our religious bodies, hard work of the frontline workers and support of every Bhutanese, the nation saw a successful lockdown. Today, after more than 40 days, and over 280,000 tests of COVID-19 carried out nationwide, we are confident that
- [Field Notes from Our New Director, Ms. Norbu Dema](https://www.bhutanfound.org/field-notes-from-our-new-director-ms-norbu-dema/) - Exciting Times Ahead! On January 2, we celebrated Bhutanese Nyilo or winter solstice quietly in our homes under nationwide lockdown with no big celebrations, no gatherings of family and relatives, and no archery matches. As always, however, it was a time to reflect on the past year and consider possibilities for the months to come. In November
- [Business as usual in Thimphu from Monday](https://www.bhutanfound.org/business-as-usual-in-thimphu-from-monday/) - Schools, institutions and businesses to operate within the existing Covid-19 norms Younten Tshedup After 43 days of lockdown following a local outbreak of Covid-19, life in Thimphu will return to ‘normal’ starting February 1. This means that people can return to work and institutions and businesses can open as usual. Residents will, however, have to
- [[LIVE Event] Mindfulness During a Global Pandemic](https://www.bhutanfound.org/mindfulness-during-a-global-pandemic-free-online-event/) - Join us this February 16th at 7PM ET | 4 PT for the latest episode in the Bhutan Foundation's Dragon Series featuring the Venerable Khedrupchen Rinpoche on mental health during the pandemic. As we usher in the Year of the Ox this Losar, we are honored to present to you the latest episode of the
- [Enhanced Surveillance - Post Lockdown](https://www.bhutanfound.org/enhanced-surveillance-post-lockdown/) - In order to detect any person(s) with COVID-19 on time and to prevent further transmissions and outbreaks, a Strategy called Enhanced Surveillance is being implemented in both high and low-risk districts. Active surveillance includes testing of all frontline workers identified by the respective dzongkhag/taskforce every two weeks. The front liners and those population who are
- [Bhutan Foundation Receives 2021 Platinum Seal of Transparency](https://www.bhutanfound.org/bhutan-foundation-receives-2021-platinum-seal-for-transparency/) - Great news! We're excited to announce that the Bhutan Foundation earned the 2021 Platinum Seal of Transparency by Guidestar which holds the highest standards for evaluating non-profit organizations. Thanks to all of you for your support!
- [Training for Teachers and Parents on "Meaningful Education for All"](https://www.bhutanfound.org/training-for-teachers-and-parents-on-meaningful-education-for-all/) - We just completed the first part of a three-day virtual training in collaboration with Phensem Parents Support Group, Bhutan, Early Learning Centre Thimphu, and Perkins School for the Blind themed "Meaningful Education for All". The workshop focuses on Person-Centered Planning. This process works to map the lives of children with the help of their parents,
- [A King to a Tourist’s Rescue](https://www.bhutanfound.org/a-king-to-a-tourists-rescue/) - Bert Hewitt, Bhutan’s first Covid-19 patient, expresses his gratitude to His Majesty The King At 76, Bert Hewitt was unlike many of his age. Outgoing and adventurous, often when not at work, he goes climbing the rugged mountainside, hiking through deep jungles in the Himalayas. In March last year, Bert Hewitt and his partner, Sandi Fischer,
- [GIST Invites Applications](https://www.bhutanfound.org/gist-invites-applications/) - Applications will be accepted from 1 February, 2021 to 1 April, 2021. GIST Innovates Bhutan is a program designed to empower early-stage Bhutanese science and technology startups to build their business skills as they take steps to commercialize their innovation and launch their product. This accelerated online training program is modeled after the Lean Startup
- [Field Notes from Our Director of Programs and Operations, Dawa Sherpa](https://www.bhutanfound.org/field-notes-from-our-director-of-programs-and-operations-dawa-sherpa/) - I hope you and your families continue to remain cautious, vigilant, and healthy as we continue to fight against the COVID-19 pandemic. It has been over a year since the first case of the coronavirus emerged. For me, it’s been almost a year since I arrived in Kathmandu, Nepal, en-route to Bhutan. Just days before
- [Mr. Vince Pérez Appointed as Honorary Consul of Bhutan to the Philippines](https://www.bhutanfound.org/mr-vince-perez-appointed-as-honor-consul-of-bhutan-to-the-philippines/) - Congratulations to Bhutan Foundation Advisory Council member, Mr. Vince Pérez on his appointment to Honorary Consul of Bhutan to the Philippines! Vince is the CEO of Alternergy, a renewable power company in Asia, and was Board trustee of WWF International and Chairman of WWF-Philippines. He has more than 30 years of experience in finance and
- [Panbang Youth Cooperative Caters to its Local Community](https://www.bhutanfound.org/panbang-youth-cooperative-caters-to-its-local-community/) - When many urban centers in Bhutan faced a shortage of chilis and other vegetables this January, a youth group in Panbang, the Panbang Youth Cooperative (PYC), sold their first harvest of chili at about Nu. 300 a kilogram to their local community. This is a big difference from the prices in Thimphu which ranged from Nu. 500 to
- [Donate to Support BCMD This Week for a 50% Match](https://www.bhutanfound.org/donate-to-support-bcmd-this-week-for-a-50-match/) - Great news! This week only, if you donate up to $50 to the Bhutan Centre for Media and Democracy at the link below, #GlobalGiving will match it by half! That means, for example, if you donate $50, your donation gets an added $25 on top to help support programs that engage Bhutanese youth in democracy.
- [Congratulations to Samten and Gempo!](https://www.bhutanfound.org/congratulations-to-samten-and-gempo/) - Congratulations to our partners Samten Yeshi (Curator) and Gempo Wangdi (Education Outreach Officer) from the Wangduechhoeling Palace project for completing a course on “Tangible Things: Discovering History Through Artworks, Artifacts, Scientific Specimens, and the stuff around you” certified by Harvard University! The course was based on reading all kinds of objects to explore hidden stories
- [Chuniding Food Creates Innovative Food Products](https://www.bhutanfound.org/chuniding-food-creates-innovative-food-products/) - We began the week by visiting our new partners at Chuniding Food, to learn about their efforts to create innovative food products using fruits and vegetables produced by our local farmers throughout the country. Our team met with Aum Kesang, the founder, who gave us a tour around the vicinity, explaining the work done in
- [A Youth Group Leads Urban Farming in Dewathang](https://www.bhutanfound.org/a-youth-group-leads-urban-farming-in-dewathang/) - A youth-led organic urban farming group's work in Dewathang is turning into a model for many aspiring urban farmers. The farms employ local youth who have been impacted by COVID-19, to grow vegetables for their families and communities during ongoing shortages. Beyond that, the teams are also farming 2.5 acres of mustard to produce mustard
- [Bhutan Foundation Supports Unemployed Youths During the Pandemic](https://www.bhutanfound.org/foundation-supports-unemployed-youths-during-the-pandemic/) - As part of the government's COVID-19 containment measures, the Food Corporation of Bhutan Limited (FCBL), a state-owned enterprise, was mandated to ensure the availability, affordability, and accessibility of quality food and essential commodities in the country. During the national lockdown, FCBL had the responsibility to facilitate home-delivery services of critical food items. To effectively carry
- [Essential Computer Skills Training for Children with Special Needs](https://www.bhutanfound.org/essential-computer-skills-training-for-children-with-special-needs/) - His Majesty The King has identified a range of national priorities in the context of a Royal vision for Bhutan over the last few years. With the world practically engulfed by technological fever, the Royal advice contains a validation of technology's significance and value with a strong sense of urgency. "Being a small nation makes
- [Government Launches Mass Dog Sterilization and Vaccination Campaign](https://www.bhutanfound.org/government-launches-mass-dog-sterilization-and-vaccination-campaign/) - Mass Dog Sterlization and Vaccination Campaign Initiated by the National Center for Animal Health, Department of Livestock Thimphu municipality and peri-urban areas alone have approximately 13,000 dogs and about 6,000 free-roaming dogs with other cities and towns experiencing similar large populations. In an effort to address this issue, we are pleased to take part in
- [Wangdicholing Hospital Organized Health Camp for 22 Monks in Bumthang](https://www.bhutanfound.org/wangdicholing-hospital-organized-health-camp-for-22-monks-in-bumthang/) - Congratulations to our partner, Wangdicholing General Hospital, on their successful health camp which provided medical services to the 22 monks of Yoesel Choling Monastery in Bumthang. One of the oldest in Bumthang, the monastery hosts 22 monks all below the age of fifteen. Due to difficulties traveling from the remote monastery, doctors from Wangdicholing General
- [Field Notes out of Panbang, Bhutan](https://www.bhutanfound.org/field-notes-out-of-panbang-bhutan/) - Happy Spring! If you follow Bhutan closely, you may know that border closures and layoffs during this pandemic have significantly impacted food security and unemployment across Bhutan. This has been a growing concern for the Royal Government and for the Bhutan Foundation, which is why I took a trip to Panbang in Southern Bhutan to
- [Ask your questions LIVE with our Director in Thimphu!](https://www.bhutanfound.org/ask-your-questions-live-with-our-director-in-thimphu/) - Over the last several months, our team in Thimphu has been working hard to make impacts in a number of different projects across Bhutan. This April 7th, we invite you to join us LIVE in a conversation with our Director in Thimphu to hear about these projects. Ms. Norbu Dema joined our small team in
- [Foundation Supports Projects to Provide Climate-Proof Access to Water for Communities in Paro and Zhemgang](https://www.bhutanfound.org/foundation-supports-projects-to-provide-climate-proof-access-to-water-for-communities-in-paro-and-zhemgang/) - This past week, our partners at the Bhutan Water Partnership (BhWP) in Royal Society for Protection of Nature were busy consulting community members in Zhemgang and Paro to develop projects for providing climate-proof access to water to their communities. In Zhemgang, the team visited a small community that consists of elderly nuns, people with disabilities,
- [Farmers in Samtse and Sarpang Trained on Organic Mulching](https://www.bhutanfound.org/farmers-in-samtse-and-sarpang-trained-on-organic-mulching/) - One of our partners, the Tarayana Foundation, aims to build a sustainable and resilient future and promote organic and environmentally friendly practices in all its project activities. With the Bhutan Foundation's project support, the Tarayana Foundation implemented organic mulching in Ngawang Dramtoe Village in Samtse and Dechen Pelri Village in Sarpang. Beyond moderating soil temperature
- [Journal Publishers Trained on Open Journal System](https://www.bhutanfound.org/journal-publishers-trained-on-open-journal-system/) - Open Journal System (OJS) is the open-access software for online journal management and publication. The widely used OJS software helps improve the online access and credibility of the Bhutan Health Journal in the international arena. The training will enhance skills and familiarize IT Officers and Managing Editors from selected journal publishers within the country to
- [Partner In Focus: Khengrig Namsum Cooperative (KNC)](https://www.bhutanfound.org/partner-in-focus-khengrig-namsum-cooperative-knc/) - For the first subject in our #PartnerInFocus series, we're featuring one of our local partners, Khengrig Namsum Cooperative (KNC), out of Tingtibi, Zhemgang! KNC is a local farming co-op engaging a diverse group of members, from unemployed youths to about 230 farmers from 82 households. Amid the pandemic, the team is gearing up to increase
- [Capacity Building: Scholarship Recipients in Special Education and Environmental Conservation](https://www.bhutanfound.org/capacity-building-scholarship-recipients-in-special-education-and-environmental-conservation/) - Bhutan Foundation supported four scholarships One of the Bhutan Foundation's missions is to continue to build local capacity in areas of need where there are capacity gaps in our program areas. This year, we supported four scholarships in two distinct fields identified through our programs in environmental conservation and special education. Since completing their master’s
- [Special Education: Developing Functional Programs at Mongar MSS](https://www.bhutanfound.org/special-education-developing-functional-programs-at-mongar-mss/) - Tshering Choden, who often ran away from school or threw tantrums in the past, now looks forward to joining her classmates each day at Mongar Middle Secondary School (MSS). It’s been a strong turnaround with help from Anu Alex to develop strategies for children with special needs. In just a period of five months, Tshering
- [Wangduechhoeling Palace: Bridging the Past with the Future](https://www.bhutanfound.org/wangduechhoeling-palace-bridging-the-past-with-the-future-2/) - Sonam Tashi has been managing and supervising the palace conservation work since 2016. Sonam Tashi is the Conservation Engineer of Tashi Deling Construction and Consultancy Company, managing and supervising the Wanduechhoeling Palace conservation work since 2016. With a career background specializing in traditional construction, restoration, and conservation of heritage sites, he is one of only
- [Supporting Women’s Empowerment through Employment](https://www.bhutanfound.org/supporting-womens-empowerment-through-employment/) - The economic and social impacts from the pandemic are especially tough for women, who are more vulnerable to domestic abuse, job loss, and financial insecurities. While focusing our efforts on tackling two of the government’s main COVID-19 concerns, employment and food security, our projects have taken particular care to support women and women’s groups. The
- [Enhancing Farming and Food Security in Bhutan](https://www.bhutanfound.org/enhancing-farming-and-food-security-in-bhutan/) - Farming Tools and Equipment for the Panbang Youth Cooperative (PYC) When the COVID-19 pandemic hit Bhutan’s food system in 2020, the Panbang Youth Co-operative (PYC), a co-operative farming group founded by five childhood friends, quickly initiated the development of 14 acres of farmland to increase local food production. Their team of now 16 youth from
- [Lockdown for Thromdes and Satellite Towns in Southern Border Dzongkhags](https://www.bhutanfound.org/lockdown-for-thromdes-and-satellite-towns-in-southern-border-dzongkhags/) - All the thromdes and satellite towns in the southern border dzongkhags will be under lockdown for further epidemiological assessment with immediate effect. No movement of individuals and vehicles will be allowed in those areas. The National COVID-19 Taskforce arrived at the decision in an emergency meeting conducted after two positive cases of COVID-19 were detected
- [Health Officials Trained in Mongar](https://www.bhutanfound.org/health-officials-trained-in-mongar/) - A total of 66 Health Officials Trained on Basic Life Support and Advanced Cardiac Life Support Periodic refresher training for healthcare providers is crucial to improve the survival rate for cardiac patients. In this regard, the Eastern Regional Referral Hospital, in collaboration with the Ministry of Health, conducted a Basic Life Support and Advanced Cardiac
- [Improved Tents Handed Over to Lingzhi and Bumthang Nomad Community](https://www.bhutanfound.org/improved-tents-handed-over-to-lingzhi-and-bumthang-nomad-community/) - We've been busy the past week distributing improved tents to the highlanders in Bumthang and Lingzhi. These improved tents to replace the flimsy and large plastic tarps which herders used for shelter. The new, improved tents have larger space, improved durability, and better insulation for colder weather while reducing risks from smoke inhalation. The metal
- [New Varieties of Nutrient-rich Vegetables Introduced in Ngawang Dramtoe in Samtse](https://www.bhutanfound.org/new-varieties-of-nutrient-rich-vegetables-introduced-in-ngawang-dramtoe-in-samtse/) - The Bhutan Foundation USAID ESF project addresses the issue of malnourishment by introducing new varieties of nutrient-rich vegetables. The community of Ngawang Dramtoe, Samtse has a long history of dietary and nutritional issues. They generally do not have the practice of incorporating vegetables in their diet, nor do they have any knowledge on the importance
- [The Impact of COVID-19 on Tourism in Bhutan: What's Next?](https://www.bhutanfound.org/the-impact-of-covid-19-on-tourism-in-bhutan-whats-next/) - We hope you’ll join us this May 12th to hear from Bhutan’s leadership in the tourism industry and ask your questions! When Lonely Planet listed Bhutan as the #1 place to visit in 2020, no one could have predicted the global upheaval from international border closures, travel restrictions, and increasing general anxiety around tourism that
- [BAOWE To Support Good Farming Post-Harvest Technology And Market Accessibility](https://www.bhutanfound.org/baowe-to-support-good-farming-post-harvest-technology-and-market-accessibility/) - The traditional method of sun-drying chilies in the open, typically on rooftops, is a standard practice in many parts of Bhutan. However, due to extreme weather conditions like heavy rain and humidity, districts like Trashi Yangtse face difficulties when it comes to drying their chilies effectively. On top of wet weather getting in the way,
- [Nomad Health Camp in Sephu and Gangtey Gewog Kicks Off](https://www.bhutanfound.org/nomad-health-camp-in-sephu-and-gangtey-gewog-kicks-off/) - The Nomad Health Camp in Sephu and Gangtey will take place over the next 20 days. The annual nomad health camps in Bumthang and Trashigang, which provide medical services to nomadic and remote communities, have been on hold since last year due to the ongoing pandemic. This year, with the approval from the Ministry of
- [Bhutan Foundation Supports Two Women-Focused Self-Help Groups in Haa](https://www.bhutanfound.org/bhutan-foundation-supports-two-women-focused-self-help-groups-in-haa/) - Two women-focused self-help groups from Uesu and Katsho communities in the Haa District excitedly received new coolers and a deep freezer last week. Each cooler can store up to 100 liters of milk, 200-300 pieces of cheese, and 50-100 kgs of butter. The deep freezer will be used to collectively store 350 liters of dairy
- [Bhutan Foundation and USAID Supply Farming Equipment to the Samdrup Jongkhar Initiative (SJI)](https://www.bhutanfound.org/bhutan-foundation-and-usaid-supported-agriculture-equipment-to-the-samdrup-jongkhar-initiative-sji/) - One way we hope to help encourage sustainable farming and agriculture is by providing appropriate tools and equipment. The aid of farming equipment can help ease intensive manual work, as well as reduce the time and cost of labor. Removing these roadblocks allows local farmers to expand their farmland, scale-up production, and improve the overall
- [Congratulations to the Health Minister of Bhutan!](https://www.bhutanfound.org/congratulations-to-health-minister-of-bhutan/) - We heartily congratulate Her Excellency Lyonpo Dasho Dechen Wangmo, the Health Minister of Bhutan, for assuming the Presidency of the 74th World Health Assembly held in Geneva, Switzerland. For the first time, Bhutan is taking on the responsibility of the presidentship since Bhutan became a member of the World Health Organization (WHO) in 1982. Tashi
- [Student Opportunities Available with NASA DEVELOP - Apply Today!](https://www.bhutanfound.org/student-opportunity-available-with-nasa-develop/) - Student Opportunity Available! If you've followed the last two all-Bhutanese NASA DEVELOP cohorts, you've likely seen amazing research coming from young students who are working on exciting original projects related to climate science and elephant habitats. Now's your chance to be part of the team! Bhutanese students, from any major, studying in the US can
- ["Raising Climate Ambition: Voices from Bhutan" Launched](https://www.bhutanfound.org/raising-climate-ambition-voices-from-bhutan/) - This series is a collaboration between NEC, RUB, BES, UNDP, Bhutan Foundation, WWF, and UNCDF to bring climate issues to the forefront and to shape collective consciousness for actions that can translate into climate wins, not just for Bhutan, but for the world Aimed at creating broader awareness on the impacts of climate change and
- [Bhutan Foundation supports Radiography Training for Wangdicholing General Hospital in Bumthang](https://www.bhutanfound.org/bhutan-foundation-supports-radiography-training-for-wangdicholing-general-hospital-in-bumthang/) - Chimmi Dema, a Radio Sonographer from Wangdicholing Hospital in Bumthang, started a ten-day training on Trauma and Pediatric Radiography at Jigme Dorji Wangchuck National Referral Hospital (JDWNRH) in Thimphu! By the end of the training, she will gain knowledge and practical skills in radio diagnosis in pediatric and trauma patients, skin and subcutaneous tissue scanning,
- [Loden and Bhutan Foundation Support an Entrepreneur in Wangdue Phodrang](https://www.bhutanfound.org/loden-and-bhutan-foundation-supports-an-entrepreneur-in-wangdue-phodrang/) - Kinley Mo is one of the entrepreneurs from the Loden-Bhutan Foundation COVID-19 Response Grants. “We are thankful to the US Agency for International Development, Bhutan Foundation, and Loden Foundation for their support. With this, we can grow various cash crops such as asparagus, pumpkin, cherry pepper chili, and fruit crops such as watermelon, dragon fruit,
- [Loden and Bhutan Foundation Support Bhutan Blossoms](https://www.bhutanfound.org/loden-and-bhutan-foundation-support-bhutan-blossoms/) - Did you know Druk Metho has now been rebranded as “Bhutan Blossoms”? Loden Foundation and Bhutan Foundation helps to rebrand and expand their business. Bhutan Blossoms is a food production and manufacturing business and is a social enterprise conceptualized and founded to solve social and environmental challenges our society faces. They collaborate with the women
- [Awareness Video of Wangsel Institute Launched](https://www.bhutanfound.org/awareness-video-of-wangsel-institute-launched/) - Did you know Wangsel Insitute for the Deaf is the only school in Bhutan that caters to Deaf and hard-of-hearing children? The Wangsel Institute is situated in Paro and hosts approximately 105 students from over 19 districts. This June, as the school celebrates its 18th year of operations, we would like to commend the teachers
- ["Your Food Basket" Aims to Provide Better Food Supply Logistics for Local Farmers](https://www.bhutanfound.org/your-food-basket-aims-to-provide-better-food-supply-logistics-for-local-farmers/) - “Your Food Basket” is a part of the Greener Lyfe Farm, located in Paro. “My team and I want to provide better food supply logistics so that local farmers will be able to sell fresh products directly from their farms,” says Ugyen Tshering from Your Food Basket. “Your Food Basket” is a part of the
- [Chuniding Food Featured in Partner In Focus](https://www.bhutanfound.org/chuniding-food-featured-in-partner-in-focus/) - Check out the latest in our #PartnerInFocus series where we feature Chuniding Food in Thimphu! With its mission to preserve and promote the Bhutanese food culture, Chunding Food is a family-owned enterprise located in the capital city, Thimphu, with about a decade’s experience in the food and hospitality sector. Established in 2015 as a social
- [Medical Services for our Mountain Communities](https://www.bhutanfound.org/medical-services-for-our-mountain-communities/) - A medical team treks 20 days on foot to set up the first Sephu Nomad Health Camp. For herders and nomads high up in the Himalayas, getting to see a doctor can involve days of trekking through snow, ice, and treacherous passes to reach the closest facility. That’s why, amidst the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, five
- [Hear Stories from a Young Democracy #DragonSeries Live](https://www.bhutanfound.org/hear-stories-from-a-young-democracy-dragonseries-live/) - As those in the United States gear up for their Fourth of July celebrations, we're turning our eyes toward Bhutan's unique move to democracy. Thirteen years after officially transitioning from an absolute monarchy, the country has gone through a number of changes that are showcasing new and emerging needs.Join the Executive Director of the Bhutan
- [USAID and Bhutan Foundation Provide Essential Medical Equipment for COVID-19 Support to Bhutan](https://www.bhutanfound.org/usaid-and-bhutan-foundation-donates-medical-equipment-to-health-ministry/) - Nu. 19.55 million worth of medical equipment handed over to Health Ministry Today, Her Majesty Gyalyum Ashi Tseyring Pem Wangchuck, the Co-Chair of the Bhutan Foundation, handed over health equipment, medical transport vehicles, and PPE worth Nu. 19.55 million to the Ministry of Health. The donation includes an autoclave machine, 110 oxygen cylinders, a bio-decontamination
- [Denmark gives 250,000 AstraZeneca doses](https://www.bhutanfound.org/denmark-gives-250000-astrazeneca-doses/) - Bhutan will receive around 250,000 doses of AstraZeneca vaccine from Denmark at the earliest possible, according to a press release from the Danish foreign ministry today. “The government has also decided to donate approx. 250,000 doses of the vaccine from AstraZeneca to Bhutan, which urgently lacks doses for the implementation of other plugs for a
- [Loan deferment extended by one more year](https://www.bhutanfound.org/loan-deferment-extended-by-one-more-year/) - The government has decided to extend the loan deferment scheme by one more year until June 2022. A press release from the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) stated that considering the continued impact and uncertainties posed by the pandemic, all loans sanctioned as of June 30, 2020 would be eligible for the deferment. However, the financial service providers (FSPs) could also negotiate with the borrowers for the revival/rehabilitation or foreclosure
- [Survey and Inventory of 20 Heritage Sites Completed in Bumthang](https://www.bhutanfound.org/survey-and-inventory-of-20-heritage-sites-completed-in-bumthang/) - The project covers 54 selected sites in the Bumthang, Mongar, and Trashigang districts. Recently, a team of ten experts, architects, and researchers led by the senior architect from the Department of Culture were in Bumthang district to carry out a thorough site survey and inventory of the heritage sites in the district. The team includes
- [Training on "Universal Treatment Curriculum for Addiction Professionals" Completed](https://www.bhutanfound.org/training-on-universal-treatment-curriculum-for-addiction-professionals-completed/) - Thirteen Counselors from four partner orgnanizations trained Congratulations to all thirteen participating counselors for completing their training last week! Their hard work has finally paid off with certifications in “Universal Treatment Curriculum for Addiction Professionals.” The participants in this training were local counselors from our partners at organizations like the Bhutan Institute of Well-being, Chithuen
- [Invitation of Requests for Funding for Small Grants Program 2021](https://www.bhutanfound.org/invitation-of-requests-for-funding-for-small-grants-program-2021/) - We are pleased to invite requests for funding proposals for the Small Grants Program from Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) and Community-based Organizations (CBO). Please refer to the following guideline for more details on the small grant. Guideline for Small Grants Program 2021 I. About Bhutan Foundation The Bhutan Foundation is a US-based non-profit organization. We
- [Khengrig Namsum Cooperative Produced 20.9 Tons Of Vegetables!](https://www.bhutanfound.org/khengrig-namsum-cooperative-produced-20-9-tons-of-vegetables/) - The KNC made a total income of Nu. 887,000 from the sale of vegetables. "With travel restrictions and lockdowns imposed as COVID-19 containment measures, I was worried about the market to sell my farm produce," said Ms. Thinley Zangmo. A collaborative farmer working with Khengrig Namsum Cooperative (KNC), Ms. Zangmo supplied chili and onion in
- [Six Staff of Wangdicholing Hospital Trained on Infection Control and Waste Management](https://www.bhutanfound.org/six-staff-of-wangdicholing-hospital-trained-on-infection-control-and-waste-management/) - Six staff of Wangdicholing General Hospital in Bumthang were trained for a week on “Infection Control and Waste Management” in Gidakom Hospital in Thimphu. The objective of the training was to assist the staff in knowing about the infection control and waste management protocols in Multi-Drug Resistance (MDRTB) TB and extremely Multi-Drug Resistance (XDR-TB) rooms
- [Bruce Bunting Scholarship 2021 Awarded to Two Recipients](https://www.bhutanfound.org/bruce-bunting-scholarship-2021-awarded-to-two-recipients/) - Congratulations to this year’s Bruce Bunting Scholarship recipients! Warmest congratulations to Ms. Tashi Dema and Mr. Bikash Rai on receiving the 2021 Bruce Bunting Scholarship. Ms. Tashi will pursue a B.Sc. in Agriculture, and Mr. Bikash will pursue a B.Sc. in Animal Science at the College of Natural Resources (CNR), Royal University of Bhutan. Before
- [Next Up on the #DragonSeries: Tiger Talks LIVE This July 29th at 11am ET](https://www.bhutanfound.org/next-up-on-the-dragonseries-tiger-talks/) - Face to Face with Tigers and Poachers in Bhutan This International Tiger Day, we're going deep into the jungles of Bhutan to speak with leading tiger researchers, Dr. Tshering Tempa and Ms. Singye Wangmo, from the Bhutan Tiger Center. This live discussion will delve into the realities of working in the field as a woman,
- [De-Suup Volunteers Trained to Assist Healthcare Workers](https://www.bhutanfound.org/de-suup-volunteers-trained-to-assist-healthcare-workers/) - A total of 120 De-Suup volunteers from six districts trained In collaboration with the Ministry of Health, Office of the De-Suung, and technical support from Khesar Gyalpo University of Medical Sciences, we supported training for four groups of DeSuup volunteers on basic frontline health care. This training will prepare basic health care providers in each
- [The Children Who Walk 16 Miles to School in a Tiger Hotspot](https://www.bhutanfound.org/the-children-who-walk-16-miles-to-school-in-a-tiger-hotspot/) - Donate Today The New Bhutan Tiger Center Opens this August You may have heard in last week’s #DragonSeries episode, “Tiger Talks: Stories of Hope from Big Cat Conservationists in Bhutan” that the new Bhutan Tiger Center is set to open this month in the Royal Manas National Park. Years of effort went into establishing the
- [Small Grants Support to Gakhil Sang Group of Shingkhar Village in Bumthang](https://www.bhutanfound.org/small-grants-support-to-gakhil-sang-group-of-shinkhar-village-in-bumthang/) - The Gakhil Sang Group has 52 registered members as of today. Ms. Karma Dema is busy collecting raw materials for a newly formed community project called Gakhil Sang Group in her Shingkhar village in Bumthang. Sang, an important material used for smoke offerings in Buddhist rituals, is something she would usually collect for personal use.
- [Highlanders Trained on Traditional Yak-hair Tent Weaving in Jomolhari Region](https://www.bhutanfound.org/highlanders-trained-on-traditional-yak-hair-tent-weaving-in-jomolhari-region/) - Recently, 16 members of the Snow Leopard Conservation Group from Soe Gewog under Thimphu district underwent training on weaving traditional yak-hair tents known as Bja. The training is one of the efforts to preserve and revive the use of traditional tents in the high-lander community of the Jomolhari region. As residents started using the lighter
- [Five-Day Community Mapping Workshop in Paro Completed](https://www.bhutanfound.org/five-day-community-mapping-workshop-in-paro-completed/) - 24 Participated in the Workshop Organized in Paro Last week, 21 students and three faculty members of Paro College of Education (PCE) participated in a five-day community mapping workshop in Paro organized by Bhutan Centre for Media and Democracy (BCMD). “I learned how a strong community can be attained. I realized that instead of pushing
- [Four Small Grants 2021 Proposals Shortlisted](https://www.bhutanfound.org/four-small-grants-2021-proposals-shortlisted/) - The Bhutan Foundation is pleased to announce the shortlisted proposals for our Small Grants program 2021. A project focal from the Bhutan Foundation office will contact your organization to further conduct a feasibility assessment and to inform you of the next steps. Selected proposals are from the following organizations: The Bhutan Foundation thanks all the
- [Two Nurses from Wangdicholing Hospital Trained on Neonatal Management and Care](https://www.bhutanfound.org/two-nurses-from-wangdicholing-hospital-trained-on-neonatal-management-and-care/) - To help introduce more practical training on infants and their care, the Bhutan Foundation helped support two staff from the Wangdicholing Hospital in Bumthang in a course on neonatal care. Tshewang Zangpo and Khenrab Jamyang recently completed this two-week attachment training on neonatal management at Jigme Dorji Wangchuck National Referral Hospital, Thimphu. The objective of
- [Bhutan Foundation Supports Rainwater Harvesting System in Chubjekha Village in Paro](https://www.bhutanfound.org/bhutan-foundation-supports-rainwater-harvesting-system-in-chubjekha-village-in-paro/) - More than 30 acres of land are left fallow due to water scarcity. As part of our Small Grants program, our team is supporting an enterprising women's group in Chubjekha village in Paro to install a roof rainwater harvesting system for ten households in the community for their agricultural use. Chubjekha village, one of the
- [Women-Led Dairy Group of Sunkiri Village in Haa More Confident To Market Their Products](https://www.bhutanfound.org/women-dairy-group-of-sunkiri-village-in-haa-more-confident-to-market-their-products/) - The Bhutan Foundation and BAOWE supported the women group to buy deep freezers and coolers in May The biggest challenge faced by the dairy farmers of Sunkiri village in Haa has been their inability to market their butter and cheese in the cities. Due to the long distance to the market, products often go bad
- [Next on the #DragonSeries: Elephant Conservation in Bhutan LIVE this Mon, Sept 20th at 11AM ET](https://www.bhutanfound.org/live-event-with-qa-featuring-nasa-develop-and-local-leaders-on-elephant-conservation-in-bhutan/) - Elephants across the Bhutanese-Indian border are increasingly coming into contact with expanding human settlements like Gelephu in Southern Bhutan. An epicenter for these, often destructive, interactions, this town is an example of the growing concern for human-wildlife conflict in the area. For the last year, our partners at NASA DEVELOP have been engaging Bhutanese students in
- [12 Mentors Trained on Positive Future Planning for Children and Persons with Disabilities](https://www.bhutanfound.org/12-mentors-trained-on-positive-future-planning-for-children-and-persons-with-disabilities/) - This month begins the start of a two-year project to help build capacity for mentors managing support for children with disabilities across Bhutan. This program, called "Positive Future Planning for Children with Disabilities (CWD) and Persons with Disabilities (PDW) for Parents and Caregivers” was developed and is being carried out in partnership with Phensem Parents
- [Lyonpo Dechen Wangmo Honored with the Distinguished Alumni Award from the Association of Yale Alumni in Public Health](https://www.bhutanfound.org/lyonpo-dechen-wangmo-honored-with-the-distinguished-alumni-award-from-the-association-of-yale-alumni-in-publich-health/) - Association of Yale Alumni in Public Health announced the award on October October 21, 2021. We offer our heartfelt congratulations to Her Excellency Lyonpo Dechen Wangmo, Health Minister of Bhutan and our Advisory Council member, for being honored with the Distinguished Alumni Award from the Association of Yale Alumni in Public Health. This award recognizes
- [Small Grants 2021 Projects Take Off](https://www.bhutanfound.org/small-grants-2021-projects-take-off/) - After a vigorous process of vetting proposals submitted by numerous civil society and community-based organizations, four project proposals have been selected for our Small Grants program this year. They include the Development of Katsho Eco Camp in Haa, the Development of an Entrepreneurial Curriculum for Children with Special needs, Diversification, and value addition of Dairy
- [Bhutanese Stroke Survivors Find Support in a New CSO](https://www.bhutanfound.org/bhutanese-stroke-survivors-find-support-in-a-new-cso/) - Dawa Tshering was like any other Bhutanese citizen, working hard and taking care of his family until his 32-year-old wife Rinchen suffered a stroke in 2019. They were at home when his wife complained of a headache and started throwing up. So, they called the astrologer to do a reading—it was only after seven hours
- [107 Highlanders Attended Bumthang Nomad Health Camp](https://www.bhutanfound.org/107-highlanders-attended-bumthang-nomad-health-camp/) - A total of 107 highlanders, from ages 4 to 74, attended the health camp. Amazing news from Wangdicholing Hospital in Bumthang! Recently, a team of nine health workers walked across six communities providing essential healthcare services to the people for about three weeks. They provided general medical check-ups, immunizations, dental and ophthalmics, traditional medicine, diagnostics,
- [Sibjam to Address and Solve Food Supply Chain Constraints in Bhutan](https://www.bhutanfound.org/sibjam-to-address-and-solve-food-supply-chain-constraints-in-bhutan/) - Sibjam connects over 1,500 farmers with more than 200 types of organic and local farm produce. To address the demands of consumers and solve the problems of farmers selling farm produce - Azha Pasa has launched ‘Sibjam’ today at the Druk Tsongrig Gatoen organized by the Loden Foundation. Sibjam is an online marketplace that will
- [Small Grants Program: A Thimphu Initiative](https://www.bhutanfound.org/small-grants-program-a-thimphu-initiative/) - Managed directly by the Thimphu Office, the Small Grants Program supports projects that complement and consolidate the Foundation’s broad program goals to uplift the four pillars of Gross National Happiness. The program offers immediate support to a number of diverse projects on the ground each year, with quick results, and has been instrumental in its
- [Enhancing Food Security in Response to COVID-19](https://www.bhutanfound.org/enhancing-food-security-in-response-to-covid-19/) - After Bhutan closed its borders to the international community in March 2020, thousands of Bhutanese lost their jobs, including approximately 50,000 employees working in tourism and hospitality-driven services. For Ms. Pema Lhamo, however, who graduated right at the beginning of the pandemic, what could have been a story of loss became one of potential—all thanks
- [Join Us On #GivingTuesday to Support BEAR Team](https://www.bhutanfound.org/givingtuesdaytoday/) - It's GivingTuesday! GivingTuesday is finally here! Thanks to all of your support, we’ve already raised the funds for two satellite phones and two sleeping bags for emergencies or disasters that the BEAR medical teams often face in the field. This means nurses and doctors will have the added protection during dangerous remote emergency rescue operations
- [First Batch of AIMS Muti-media Trainees Completes 18-month Long Training](https://www.bhutanfound.org/first-batch-of-aims-media-trainees-completes-their-training/) - Happy International Day of Persons with Disabilities! We just ended our 18-month long multi-media program in partnership with Perkins International and AIMS media for our trainees with disabilities. Parents and their children were excited to take part in a graduation ceremony to celebrate their accomplishments. This was a special moment for everyone, especially our trainees,
- [Bhutan Foundation Supports Funduscopy Training For a Doctor](https://www.bhutanfound.org/bhutan-foundation-supports-funduscopy-training-for-a-doctor/) - Last week, we supported Dr. Pema Wangchuk, from Wangdicholing Hospital in Bumthang, in funduscopy training at the Gyalyum Kesang Choeden Wangchuck National Eye Hospital in Jigme Dorji Wangchuck National Referral Hospital. The burden of non-communicable diseases like hypertension and diabetes mellitus is ever-increasing in Bhutan. The number of patients developing microvascular complications like hypertensive or
- [Bhutan Foundation Donates a Minibus to Bhutan Tiger Center](https://www.bhutanfound.org/bhutan-foundation-donates-a-minibus-to-bhutan-tiger-center/) - Yesterday, the Bhutan Foundation donated a 10-seater Toyota minibus to our partners at the Bhutan Tiger Center (BTC). This bus will provide a safe, comfortable, and convenient journey for the children of families working at the BTC from their new headquarters based in Mathanguri in Manas, Panbang. Both seasonal monsoon rain and the ever-present danger
- [Thank You and Happy Holidays!](https://www.bhutanfound.org/happyholidays2021/) - We Hope You Enjoy This Video Thank you and a very warm and happy holidays to all of our supporters! This video is a quick highlight of some of the amazing work you've helped support this 2021. We hope you enjoy it and look forward to seeing you in the new year. –The Bhutan Foundation
- [The Bhutan Foundation Welcomes New Members to Its Advisory Council](https://www.bhutanfound.org/the-bhutan-foundation-welcomes-new-members-to-its-advisory-council/) - To start off 2022, we would like to introduce five new Bhutan Foundation Advisory Council members. The Advisory Council is a group of internationally distinguished leaders, professionals, and experts on issues ranging from climate change to sustainability, healthcare, education, governance, and south asian affairs. Their combined expertise helps guide the Bhutan Foundation. The newest members
- [[Closed] Job Opportunity: Our Team in Washington, DC is Hiring a Development Officer](https://www.bhutanfound.org/job-opportunity-our-team-washington-dc-is-hiring-a-development-officer/) - This is a full-time salaried position based in Washington DC. The Bhutan Foundation seeks a Development Associate/Officer whose responsibilities include supporting donor identification, cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship to raise funds for projects in the Himalayan nation of Bhutan. Duties and Responsibilities Processing donations: • Ensure all donors are properly receipted for their contributions including donations
- [Press Release: USAID Awards Six Research Grants to Strengthen U.S.-Bhutan Research Partnership](https://www.bhutanfound.org/usaid-awards-six-research-grants-to-strengthen-u-s-bhutan-research-partnership/) - Press Release from the U.S Embassy, New Delhi, February 1, 2022: The U.S. Government, through the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) has awarded six research grants worth a total of $500,000 U.S. dollars (Nu 37 M approximately) to foster partnerships in scientific cooperation between Bhutan and the United States on topics including public health,
- [The Foundation Supports Development of Audiovisuals for Children with Special Needs](https://www.bhutanfound.org/foundation-supports-development-of-audiovisuals-for-children-with-special-needs/) - Due to the pandemic and strict COVID-19 related protocols, visiting hospitals has become challenging for parents who need to avail physiotherapy and other health-related services for their children with special needs. Similarly, home visits by social workers from the Ability Bhutan Society (ABS) have also been limited during the pandemic, which has resulted in inconsistencies
- [PK Organic Farm Caters Vegetables In Their Community](https://www.bhutanfound.org/pk-organic-farm-caters-vegetables-in-their-community/) - For the past few months, six enthusiastic members from PK Organic Farm have been busy harvesting and supplying varieties of vegetables from their farm. But, like many other farmers in Bhutan, PK's farm is also affected by wildlife, drought, excessive rainfall, and pest issues. However, with their passion and hard work, their vegetable yields were
- [Watch Live Q&A Session for a Paid Internship Opportunity with NASA DEVELOP](https://www.bhutanfound.org/bhutanese-students-in-the-u-s-invited-to-join-a-live-qa-session-for-an-internship-opportunity-with-nasa-develop/) - We're happy to announce that NASA DEVELOP will be hosting an informational session for a paid internship opportunity offered through NASA's DEVELOP program. Over the coming summer session, the chosen team of Bhutanese students will partner with Bhutan's Department of Agriculture (DoA) on a project analyzing rice cultivation. The team is looking for students from
- [Urban Farmers in Samdrup Jongkhar Harvest Fresh Vegetables From Their Backyard Garden](https://www.bhutanfound.org/urban-farmers-in-samdrup-jongkhar-harvest-fresh-vegetables-from-their-backyard-garden/) - During this lockdown, 25 urban farmers in Samdrup Jongkhar were able to enjoy fresh vegetables from their backyard gardens and reduce the stress on the food system. In addition, over the last 20 days, the urban farmers sold 520 kgs of assorted vegetables in the local market. "In this lockdown, I did not have to
- [Press Release: Signing of Grant Agreement for COVID-19 Vaccine Reactogenicity and Immunogenicity and Capacity Building Project in Bhutan](https://www.bhutanfound.org/press-release-signing-of-grant-agreement-for-covid-19-vaccine-reactogenicity-and-immunogenicity-and-capacity-building-project-in-bhutan/) - A Grant Agreement for the COVID-19 Vaccine Reactogenicity and Immunogenicity, and Capacity Building Project in Bhutan was signed between the Secretary of the Gross National Happiness Commission, Director of Bhutan Foundation, and President of Khesar Gyalpo University of Medical Sciences of Bhutan (KGUMSB) on February 15, 2022. The overall goal of the project is to
- [Gakhil Sang Group of Shingkhar Begins Incense Production](https://www.bhutanfound.org/gakhil-sang-group-of-shingkhar-begins-incense-production/) - A hearty congratulations to the Gakhil Sang Group of Shingkhar in Bumthang for selling their first batch of Sang (incense) products! The people of Shingkhar have been harvesting local high-altitude herbs for Sang by hand for their personal consumption for ages. Recently, they decided to initiate the Gakhil Sang Group of Shingkhar to mechanize the
- [[Watch LIVE] Saving Lives in the Air: A Conversation with Bhutan's Airborne Emergency Medical Team](https://www.bhutanfound.org/watch-live-saving-lives-in-the-air-a-conversation-with-bhutans-airborne-emergency-medical-team/) - Join Us LIVE Thursday, Feb 24th at 9 AM ET | 8 PM Thimphu to Hear from the BEAR Team Bhutan's medical services teams have been hard at work keeping their communities safe through the changes and restrictions of the pandemic. In this month's #DragonSeries, the Bhutan Foundation will be talking to one team that
- [Time is Running Out to Apply for NASA DEVELOP's Summer 2022 Program!](https://www.bhutanfound.org/time-is-running-out-to-apply-for-nasa-develops-summer-2022-program/) - The deadline to apply is this Friday, February 25th so click the link below and apply today! This Friday, February 25th, applications are due to apply for the 2022 Summer NASA’s DEVELOP program. This paid internship brings together Bhutanese students studying in the United States to conduct research on issues impacting the Bhutanese community. This
- [Thank You His Majesty](https://www.bhutanfound.org/thank-you-his-majesty/) - … His Majesty steers Bhutan out of danger as the world reels in Covid-19 Kuensel reporters Wangdue Phodrang was experiencing a massive wave of Covid-19 cases the country has not seen to date. An 84-year-old woman from Pangsho in Gasetshogom gewog is among the positive cases. But her spirits have never been higher. As she moved
- [Almost 50 Percent of Children Aged five-11 Get First Dose](https://www.bhutanfound.org/almost-50-percent-of-children-aged-five-11-get-first-dose/) - Almost 50 percent of the children have been vaccinated by the second day of the mass pediatric vaccination campaign for children between the ages of five-11 yesterday. A total of 23,193 children in the country were vaccinated yesterday taking the total number of children vaccinated so far to 39,642 of the 83,226 children in this
- [Bhutan Foundation Supports Draktsho to Adopt Inclusive Entrepreneurship Curriculum](https://www.bhutanfound.org/bhutan-foundation-supports-draktsho-to-adopt-inclusive-entrepreneurship-curriculum/) - The Bhutan Foundation is working with Draktsho Vocational Training Center to include our special children and youth in entrepreneurship programs through an inclusive entrepreneurship curriculum. Only the mainstream entrepreneurs are trained with the existing entrepreneurship curriculum for one to two weeks. We require the curriculum to be adapted, encompassing visual aids and more practical sessions
- [Announcement: Loden Foundation Calls for Business Proposals](https://www.bhutanfound.org/loden-foundation-calls-for-business-proposals/) - Loden Spring Call for Business Proposals 2022 The Loden Foundation in partnership with Boiling Point, Society Switzerland Bhutan and Bhutan Foundation is pleased to call for business proposals from aspiring and existing Bhutanese entrepreneurs. The program shall support a wide range of entrepreneurial ventures that are innovative, viable and capacity to scale up. It is particularly important that the
- [Four New Covid-19 Hospitals Established ](https://www.bhutanfound.org/four-new-covid-19-hospitals-established/) - The health ministry is gearing up for the new Covid-19 management strategy that the government is planning from April. The ministry has established four Covid-19 hospitals to treat positive patients in the country so far. The Covid-19 hospitals are at national Covid-19 hospital in Thimphu at Taba, regional Covid-19 hospital in Mongar, regional Covid-19 hospital in
- [A Farmers' Cooperative and a Milk Processing Unit Benefits 55 Members in Khemdro, Phobjikha](https://www.bhutanfound.org/a-farmers-cooperative-and-a-milk-processing-unit-benefits-55-members-in-khemdro-phobjikha/) - “We would like to thank Mr. Sherab and his team for establishing the Kuenphen Khemdro Omghi Detshen (KKOD) and the milk processing unit in Khemdro. The group has immensely benefitted all the dairy farmers here. We have been supplying milk to the milk processing unit for more than five years now. Before the group, we
- [Panbang Youth Cooperative Supplies Community with 12 Tons of Vegetables](https://www.bhutanfound.org/panbang-youth-cooperative-supplements-the-country-to-address-food-security-and-employment-issues/) - "At this juncture of the pandemic, most have lost jobs, affecting their livelihoods. But for me, farming is in my blood, and I understand being self-sufficient is more important in life. But now, to supplement the country to address food security and employment issues, I have joined Panbang Youth Cooperatives (PYC) to work towards resilient
- [Wangdicholing Hospital Organizes Continued COVID-19 Education For Staff and Frontliners](https://www.bhutanfound.org/wangdicholing-hospital-in-bumthang-organizes-continued-medical-education-for-staff-and-frontliners/) - Bhutan reported its first 14 cases of the Omicron variant this January. Since then, to contain the highly infectious variant, educating health workers about omicron, its transmissibility, and its severity has become a priority. For this, the Wangdicholing Hospital in Bumthang District organized a two-day training on Continued Medical Education (CME) on the Omicron variant
- [U.S. Donates 90,090 Doses of COVID-19 Vaccine to Bhutan](https://www.bhutanfound.org/u-s-donates-90090-doses-of-covid-19-vaccine-to-bhutan/) - This press release was initially shared on the website of the U.S. Embassy India. April 5, 2022, Thimphu, Bhutan — Thanks to the American people’s generosity and in partnership with COVAX, 90,090 doses of the Pfizer BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine have been donated to Bhutan, in coordination with the Bhutan Foundation and UNICEF, to fight the pandemic. These safe
- [[Closed] Job Opportunity: We are Hiring a Curator for the Wangduechhoeling Palace Project](https://www.bhutanfound.org/job-opportunity-we-are-hiring-a-curator-for-the-wangduechhoeling-palace-project/) - Full Job Description I. Program Overview: Wangduechhoeling Palace Project The Bhutan Foundation in collaboration with the Department of Culture, MoHCA, has been carrying out the project on – Restoration and Adaptation of the Wangduechhoeling Palace in the Bumthang District. With the restoration work completed, the project has entered its crucial stage of establishing the Palace
- [Improved Tents Delivered to Highland Communities of Jomolhari, Lingzhi, and Bumthang](https://www.bhutanfound.org/improved-tents-benefit-highland-communities-of-jomolhari-lingzhi-and-bumthang/) - Snow leopards are one of Bhutan's national treasures. An elusive and solitary species found as high as 18,000ft, the cats often come into contact with highlanders and herders whose livestock often become their prey. Despite these encounters, members of highland communities in Jomolhari have rallied together with the support of the Bhutan Foundation in the
- [Fostering Youth Entrepreneurship](https://www.bhutanfound.org/fostering-youth-entrepreneurship/) - Youth with disabilities in Bhutan are often left with no alternatives after completing their schooling. Some fortunate ones can transition to vocational institutes like Draktsho, while others often stay idle at home. At Draktsho, these youth are exposed to various vocational skills like weaving, tailoring, etc.; however, not many transitions from the institute. Thus, this small
- [Health Camp at Dorji Tse Monastery in Bumthang Saves Monks a 14 Mile Walk to Receive Care](https://www.bhutanfound.org/health-camp-at-dorji-tse-monastery-in-bumthang-benefits-30-monks/) - Dorji Tse Monastery is one of the oldest in Bumthang, located more than 23km (14 miles) away from the main town. Unfortunately, due to road conditions and the costs of hiring cars, the monks are forced to walk on foot to the nearest health center for services. Last week, our partners at the Wangdicholing Hospital
- [Enhancing Sustainable Livelihood of the Soe Lanor Cooperative](https://www.bhutanfound.org/enhancing-sustainable-livelihood-of-the-soe-lanor-cooperative/) - The livelihood of nomads living in some of the remote communities was not spared by the pandemic. With the closure of movement across the border in the North, the highlanders lost the market across the border for their dairy products. The excess dairy products were left to go to waste and even fed to their
- [Development of Scholarship Management Information System](https://www.bhutanfound.org/development-of-scholarship-management-information-system/) - Bhutan has a young population with an estimated 56 percent of youth below the age of 24. As Bhutan’s leading youth organization, the Bhutan Youth Development Fund (BYDF) works to ensure all youths have equal access to education, meaningful employment, and opportunities to develop their potential. Under their scholarship program, BYDF has supported young people
- [A Collaboration to Raise Climate Ambition](https://www.bhutanfound.org/a-collaboration-to-raise-climate-ambition/) - Climate Series In partnership with various international organizations, the Bhutan Foundation supported the Climate Series titled “Raising Climate Ambition: Voices from Bhutan.” The five-part climate series was hosted from May to October 2021, coinciding with important international dates such as the International Day for Biological Diversity, World Environment Day, International Youth Day, and the Asia Pacific Climate Week.
- [Small Grants Recipient Seeks to Reinvigorate Eco-Tourism in Haa](https://www.bhutanfound.org/small-grants-recipient-seeks-to-reinvigorate-eco-tourism-in-haa/) - In the first week of April 2022, Bhutan received 34 international tourists—the first group since March 2020. The local tourism industry is happy to see the gradual revival of tourism, especially individuals working in tourism and hospitality services whose livelihoods were affected by the pandemic. One group of hospitality-sector entrepreneurs, the Katsho Eco Camp, is
- [Bhutan Foundation, USAID, and BAOWE Partner to Donate New Electric Dehydrator to Farming Group in Tashi Yangtse](https://www.bhutanfound.org/bhutan-foundation-usaid-and-baowe-partner-to-donate-new-electric-dehydrator-to-farming-group-in-tashi-yangtse/) - Due to heavy rain and humidity, districts like Trashi Yangtse face unfavorable weather to dry their chilies. The Bomdiling Urka Group, based in Trashi Yangtse in Eastern Bhutan, is now equipped with a new electric dehydrator and will no longer need to worry about their chilies wilting. The shared community dehydrator will allow the farmers
- [Wangduechhoeling: More Than a Palace Museum](https://www.bhutanfound.org/wangduechhoeling-more-than-a-palace-museum/) - With more than 20 acres of land secured within its compound, the Wangduechhoeling Palace will ensure that this space is preserved for posterity to be enjoyed by Bhutanese and visitors alike. Coalescing with the Jampa Lhakhang and Kurje Lhakhang monasteries through hiking trails and riverside walkways, a much larger area in the heart of Bumthang
- [A New Bus for Children Walking 16 Miles to School in Tiger Country](https://www.bhutanfound.org/a-new-bus-for-children-walking-16-miles-to-school-in-tiger-country/) - The chance to study tigers in the jungles of Royal Manas National Park (RMNP), Bhutan’s oldest park, is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for many of the 25 staff at the new Bhutan Tiger Center (BTC). With live-in facilities for families and ample wildlife in Panbang, the teams have been excited to begin work since the opening
- [Beyond Vaccines: Strengthening Bhutan’s Capacity for Research and Pandemic Preparedness](https://www.bhutanfound.org/beyond-vaccines-strengthening-bhutans-capacity-for-research-and-pandemic-preparedness/) - It’s no secret that the past two years have seen Bhutan make a name for itself on the world stage as one of the nations with the most effective pandemic response. In just one week in 2021, Bhutan managed to vaccinate 90% of its adult population in what UNICEF called, "arguably the fastest vaccination campaign
- [Sibjam: A Digital Platform to Aid Bhutan’s Agri Supply Chain](https://www.bhutanfound.org/sibjam-a-digital-platform-to-aid-bhutans-agri-supply-chain/) - Border closures in Bhutan highlighted a broken agricultural supply chain back in mid-2020 when it became apparent that significant barriers still existed in connecting produce to local markets. In response, a local startup Sibjam developed an online marketplace for farmers to sell their products and for buyers to purchase local products at wholesale rates. They offer marketing
- [Taking Power to Bhutan’s Most Remote Communities](https://www.bhutanfound.org/taking-power-to-bhutans-most-remote-communities/) - When you ask residents of any remote Bhutanese village what their most pressing needs are, they invariably say, “road access and electricity.” However, while some remote villages will never get drivable roads due to the difficult terrain and their remoteness, these villages’ energy needs can be addressed. Bhutan is endowed with fast-flowing rivers, high solar
- [Katsho Eco Camp Offers New Opportunities in Haa](https://www.bhutanfound.org/katsho-eco-camp-offers-new-opportunities-in-haa/) - While many affected by the COVID-19 pandemic turned to farm businesses as an alternative income option when the country shut down in 2020, a group of out-of-work tourist guides from Haa in western Bhutan had a different idea: bring tourism back with them. The group, consisting of 21 members, started by developing an 11 km
- [HRH Gyalsey Inaugurates Jigme Namgyel Wangchuck Super FabLab and FabLab Network](https://www.bhutanfound.org/hrh-gyalsey-inaugurates-jigme-namgyel-wangchuck-super-fablab-and-fablab-network/) - His Royal Highness The Gyalsey inaugurated the Jigme Namgyel Wangchuck Super FabLab (JNW SFL) at the TechPark in Thimphu and the FabLab network in Bhutan. The FabLab network consists of three additional FabLabs located at Druk Gyalpo’s Institute in Pangbisa, Paro, Jigme Wangchuck Power Training Institute (JWPTI) in Gelephu and the Bio FabLab at the
- [15 Health Workers Trained on Epi-Data Entry and Analysis](https://www.bhutanfound.org/15-health-workers-trained-on-epi-data-entry-and-analysis/) - Doctors like Dr. Phurpa Wangdi, a Gynaecologist in Wangdicholing hospital in Bumthang, aspire to write health research papers with credible data and information. But, without formal training in data analysis and the latest software and platforms, our leading physicians have been facing trouble. To help fill this gap, the Bhutan Foundation supported 15 health workers
- [[Closed] Now Accepting Proposals for the Bhutan Foundation's Small Grants Program 2022](https://www.bhutanfound.org/now-accepting-proposals-for-the-bhutan-foundations-small-grants-program-2022/) - We are pleased to invite requests for funding proposals for the Small Grants Program from Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) and Community-based Organizations (CBO). Please refer to the following guideline for more details on the small grant.
- [Field Notes: Solar Power, Special Education, and Women's Empowerment](https://www.bhutanfound.org/field-notes-solar-power-special-education-and-womens-empowerment/) - Back to the Field After more than two years of travel restrictions and border closures, we’re happy to report that our team in Thimphu had one of our first major field visits this June. Despite the delays in travel due to the monsoon rains, we were still very excited to see our partners and communities
- [Watch Interview with Kamana Gurung of PK Organics](https://www.bhutanfound.org/watch-interview-with-kamana-gurung-of-pk-organics/) - Fresh from college and starting a new life with her husband, Kamana worked tirelessly as a homemaker and later as a stay-at-home mother when her first child was born in 2015. But options were limited for organic fruits and vegetables in her community. She was often left purchasing produce from across the border for her
- [U.S. Government Donates 33,600 Doses of Pediatric COVID-19 Vaccine to Bhutan](https://www.bhutanfound.org/u-s-government-donates-33600-doses-of-pediatric-covid-19-vaccine-to-bhutan/) - Press Release from the U.S Embassy, New Delhi, July 10, 2022: Thimphu, Bhutan: As part of President Biden’s commitment to donate COVID-19 vaccine doses to countries around the world, the U.S. government has delivered 33,600 doses of the Pfizer pediatric COVID-19 vaccine to Bhutan, in partnership with COVAX and the Bhutan Foundation. These safe and
- [The First Dr. Bruce Bunting Scholarship Recipients Graduate this Summer 2022](https://www.bhutanfound.org/congratulations-to-the-first-dr-bruce-bunting-scholarship-recipients-on-their-graduations/) - The Board and Management of the Bhutan Foundation would like to congratulate Mr. Thinley Gyamtsho and Mr. Ganga Bdr. Gaylal on completing their Bachelor's degrees in Agriculture and Animal Science respectively from the College of Natural Resources, Royal University of Bhutan.
- [[Closed] The Bhutan Foundation DC Office is Hiring a Communications Officer](https://www.bhutanfound.org/hiring/) - COMMUNICATIONS OFFICER The Bhutan Foundation Communications Officer is responsible to plan, produce, and oversee the execution of marketing and communication strategies including media, promotions, website, and all communication materials. This includes developing and publishing materials to deliver the organization’s message to donors and the public. The Communications Officer will also oversee and assist with the
- [Join Us for a LIVE Panel Discussion this Friday on Early Intervention in Special Education](https://www.bhutanfound.org/the-importance-of-early-intervention-in-special-education-a-live-panel-discussion-this-friday/) - Join Us a for LIVE Online Event Featuring Special Education Leaders in Bhutan! This Friday, July 29th 2022 at 11:30AM (Bhutan), join the Bhutan Foundation as we speak live with local leaders in Special Education about the importance of early intervention in homes and classrooms with students with special needs. The guest speakers include Ms.
- [Bhutan Foundation Supports Emerging Tiger Strongholds in Central Bhutan](https://www.bhutanfound.org/bhutan-foundation-supports-emerging-tiger-strongholds-in-central-bhutan/) - Tiger populations are growing in Bhutan! That’s why we at the Bhutan Foundation are committing to continuing our support of tiger conservation and community support in areas like Norbuling Gewog, Jigme Choling, and Sephu.
- [Our Heartiest Congratulations to the Bruce Bunting Scholarship 2022 Recipients!](https://www.bhutanfound.org/our-heartiest-congratulations-to-the-bruce-bunting-scholarship-2022-recipients/) - Our heartiest congratulations to Mr. Choki Wangchuk and Mr. Thinlay Jamtsho on receiving the Bruce Bunting Scholarship of 2022! Mr. Choki is from Gelephu in Souther Bhutan and will pursue a Bachelor of Science degree in Agriculture. Mr. Thinlay is from Trongsa in Central Bhutan and will pursue a Bachelor of Science degree in Food
- [Two Youth Entrepreneurs Awarded Start-up Funds](https://www.bhutanfound.org/two-youth-entrepreneurs-awarded-start-up-funds/) - We are happy to partner with Innovate Bhutan to support entrepreneurship education and skills development for young people to transform their ideas into tangible assets or businesses. Innovate Bhutan (iBhutan) has been established to create impact and epitomize what responsible Bhutanese entrepreneurs can accomplish. In collaboration with iBhutan, we aim to merge social and business
- [[Closed] The Bhutan Foundation Thimphu Office is Hiring a Senior Program Officer](https://www.bhutanfound.org/the-bhutan-foundation-thimphu-office-is-hiring-a-senior-program-officer/) - Position: Senior Program Officer Duty Station: Thimphu, Bhutan Probation Period: Three Months Reporting Line: Director Duty Station: Thimphu, Bhutan Terms of Reference The Senior Program Officer will work under the supervision of the Director of the Bhutan foundation office, Thimphu. S/he is responsible for coordinating, planning, and developing program activities that align with the Bhutan Foundation’s strategic
- [Historical Artifacts Gifted to the Wangduechhoeling Palace](https://www.bhutanfound.org/historical-artifacts-gifted-to-the-wangduechhoeling-palace/) - With the structural restoration of the historic Wangduechhoeling Palace completed, the Bhutan Foundation, in collaboration with the Department of Culture, is now working on the gallery plans, narratives, and exhibits for a world-class Palace Museum and Cultural Centre with the help of professional teams from Bhutan, India, and the United States. A formidable challenge that
- [Our Partner Chuniding Food Launches New Local Food Products](https://www.bhutanfound.org/our-partner-chuniding-food-launches-new-local-food-products/) - Congratulations to our partner Chuniding Food for launching their new food products! Preserving age-old recipes and adapting to modern lifestyles, Chuniding has now prepared a selection of pre-cooked vacuum-packaged meals. These meals provide a healthy, nutritious and easy option to prepare meals for trekkers, pilgrims, and even school lunches for kids! A variety of wholesome
- [The Bhutan Foundation Shortlists Five Proposals for 2022 Small Grants Program](https://www.bhutanfound.org/bhutan-foundation-shortlists-five-proposals-for-2022-small-grants-program/) - The Bhutan Foundation is pleased to announce the shortlisted proposals for our 2022 Small Grants Program. Community-Based Waste Management led by Tendruk Central School in partnership with the community.Development of an Android-Based Application for Bhutanese Sign Language (BhSL) led by the Wangsel Institute for the Deaf in Paro.Biopesticides to Promote Organic Farming by Happy Farmers
- [Department of Culture Launches New Heritage Sites Inventory Database System](https://www.bhutanfound.org/department-of-culture-launches-new-heritage-sites-inventory-database-system/) - In the presence of Ms. Patricia A. Lacina, Chargé d’Affaires and delegates from the U.S. Embassy New Delhi, dignitaries and representatives from various departments and agencies, a new inventory database system and publication of surveyed heritage sites were launched on the 28th of September, 2022. The e-book in PDF format will be available for download
- [Bhutan Receives Adult Pfizer Vaccines from the USA](https://www.bhutanfound.org/bhutan-receives-adult-pfizer-vaccines-from-the-usa/) - The Ministry of Health received 51,480 doses of adult Pfizer vaccines from the United States of America today. The vaccines were formally handed over by Ms. Patricia Lacina, Charge DÁffaires of the US Embassy in India, to Her Excellency Dasho Dechen Wangmo.The US government has made five donations of COVID-19 vaccines so far since the
- [Bhutan Foundation and USAID Organize a Knowledge Sharing Workshop for the Economic Support Project](https://www.bhutanfound.org/bhutan-foundation-and-usaid-organize-a-knowledge-sharing-workshop-for-the-economic-support-project/) - His Excellency the Agriculture Minister Lyonpo Yeshey Penjor, and a U.S. delegation led by Ms. Patricia Lacina, the Charge de Affairs and Ms. Venna Reddy, the Mission Director of USAID India, graced the closing event of the Economic Support Project (ESF) implemented in collaboration with Bhutan Foundation. The ESF project was a part of USAID's
- [Nomad Health Camp Benefits Merak and Sakteng Communities](https://www.bhutanfound.org/nomad-health-camp-benefits-merak-and-sakteng-communities/) - Leki Wangmo heard of the nomad health camp that opened in her village two years after the onset of the pandemic. She had been experiencing severe back pain which prompted her to visit the camp to be prescribed traditional medicine (sowa rigpa). After completing her medical check-up and receiving medicine, she saw her two grandchildren,
- [STEM Education Seminar and Training Attracts 200 Participants](https://www.bhutanfound.org/stem-education-seminar-and-training-attracts-200-participants/) - A three-day STEM Education Seminar and Training at Paro College of Education (PCE), Royal University of Bhutan, ended on October 15th, 2022. Organized by PCE and supported by the Bhutan Foundation, the seminar aimed to promote STEM education among school teachers, teacher educators, and educational administrators. The academic event, which began on October 13th, has
- [Field Notes From Our Executive Director](https://www.bhutanfound.org/field-notes-from-our-executive-director-2/) - The festive fall season is upon us - colorful Buddhist and Hindu festivals are being celebrated across Bhutan. This also brings us closer to the paddy harvest season, as the monsoon rains recede just before the onset of winter. On my last visit to Bhutan over the summer, one of the places I traveled to
- [Over 200 Highlanders Benefited from Bumthang Nomad Health Camp](https://www.bhutanfound.org/over-200-highlanders-benefited-from-bumthang-nomad-health-camp/) - During the past two weeks, a medical team of ten from the Wangdicholing hospital has conducted an annual nomad health camp in the communities of Khangthang, Tashabji, Tshampa, Tekchen, Lamthrang, and Nyongtong. At these camps, the team provided comprehensive healthcare services to the highlanders living in the region. In addition to conducting human papillomavirus (HPV)
- [Food Security Through Enhanced Local Partnerships](https://www.bhutanfound.org/food-security-through-enhanced-local-partnerships/) - By Kinga Wangdi Bhutan is an agriculture-based society, with more than half of its population dependent on farming for their livelihood. This sector is increasingly vulnerable to the adverse effects of climate change and other natural calamities, including human-wildlife interaction. In light of this, the Bhutan Foundation is actively supporting civil society and community-based organizations
- [Strengthening Bhutan’s Laboratory And Research Capacity](https://www.bhutanfound.org/strengthening-bhutans-laboratory-and-research-capacity/) - By Dawa Sherpa When the world was scrambling for vaccines, the Bhutan Foundation played an instrumental role in securing them through Moderna, Inc. Our relationship with the US Department of State allowed us to further strategize with Bhutan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, ultimately gaining their support in procuring the vaccines for Bhutan. Bhutan is an
- [New Projects and Partnerships Enhance Special Education Program](https://www.bhutanfound.org/new-projects-and-partnerships-enhance-special-education-program/) - By Sonam Yangden Tobgyel With an aim to enhance the lives of children with disabilities and their loved ones, the Special Education Program (SPED) is one of the Bhutan Foundation’s longest and most successful projects. The program entered a post-COVID recovery period this year and was able to initiate new projects and partnerships while rolling
- [Bhutanese Scientists Partner with U.S. Universities on Research Grants](https://www.bhutanfound.org/bhutanese-scientists-partner-with-u-s-universities-on-research-grants/) - Six Bhutanese scientists were awarded grants to carry out research in collaboration with US universities on public health, food security, and environmental conservation in Bhutan. This program is managed by the Bhutan Foundation and the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine, with funding from USAID through their Partnership for Enhanced Engagement in Research program
- [Uplifting Communities Through Improved Health Services in Bumthang](https://www.bhutanfound.org/uplifting-communities-through-improved-health-services-in-bumthang/) - By Deki Wangmo The Foundation has been supporting the Wangdicholing Hospital through the Bumthang Health Association, a local civil society organization in Bumthang. The aim of this partnership is to carry out a community-based rehabilitation program. The physiotherapy team from the hospital provides a variety of medical services, including medical checkups, physiotherapy assessment and treatment
- [National Disability Conference 2022 Kicked Off Today in Thimphu](https://www.bhutanfound.org/national-disability-conference-2022-kicked-off-today-in-thimphu/) - The National Disability Conference kicked off today in Thimphu with exciting sessions covering a wide range of topics. The day began with a panel discussion titled “Building Independence Through Assistive Technology,” during which there was a unanimous call for teachers, parents, people with disabilities, and Super FabLab engineers to develop assistive technologies that will improve
- [National Disability Conference Concludes with Ten Recommendations](https://www.bhutanfound.org/national-disability-conference-concludes-with-ten-recommendations/) - Today, the second day of the National Disability Conference 2022, began with a panel discussion on “Social Protection and Rights of Persons with Disabilities or Children with Disabilities on Social and Economic Inclusion” and a presentation titled “Building Independence and Learning in Multi-ability Classes.” The celebration of International Day of Persons with Disabilities and closing
- [Solar Power Electrification of Remote Communities of Aja Ney](https://www.bhutanfound.org/solar-power-electrification-of-remote-communities-of-aja-ney/) - By Kinga Wangdi Bhutan’s commitment to environmental protection makes it one of three carbon-negative countries in theworld. This is largely due to its vast, mandatory forest coverage that absorbs more carbon dioxide than the country emits. Beyond this, the government also offers free electricity to rural farmers and invests in sustainable transportation, overall supporting the
- [[Closed] Thimphu Office is Hiring a Senior Program Officer for Special Education and Health Program](https://www.bhutanfound.org/thimphu-office-is-hiring-a-senior-program-officer-for-health-and-special-education-program/) - I. Details: Position: Senior Program Officer Duty Station: Thimphu, Bhutan Probation Period: Three Months Reporting Line: Director Duty Station: Thimphu, Bhutan II. Terms of Reference The Senior Program Officer will work under the supervision of the Director of the Bhutan foundation office, Thimphu. The Senior Program Officer is responsible for coordinating, planning, and developing program
- [New Super FabLab to Expand STEM in Bhutan](https://www.bhutanfound.org/new-super-fablab-to-expand-stem-in-bhutan/) - By Namgyel Dema The Crown Prince of Bhutan, His Royal Highness Gyalsey Jigme Namgyel Wangchuck, had his first official royal duty on June 4th of this year when he inaugurated Bhutan’s Super FabLab. The FabLab is a collaborative space in Thimphu’s Tech Park, designed to bring people together and inspire technical innovation and creativity. During
- [Recorded Sessions from National Disability Conference 2022](https://www.bhutanfound.org/recorded-sessions-from-national-disability-conference-2022/) - We're excited to share the recorded sessions from this year's National Disability Conference, co-organized by Ability Bhutan Society and Perkins! The conference was held from December 2nd–3rd, on the theme Transformative Solutions for Inclusive Development in Bhutan. All recordings of the sessions are also shared on our Video Resources page. Read more on the conference
- [Happy Holidays From All Of Us At The Bhutan Foundation!](https://www.bhutanfound.org/happy-holidays-from-all-of-us-at-the-bhutan-foundation/) - To celebrate the season and show our appreciation for your continued support, we’ve created a special holiday video that we hope you’ll enjoy. We invite you to watch and join us as we celebrate this season of joy and giving!
- [The Samdrup Jongkhar Initiative Revives Mustard Cultivation in Dewathang](https://www.bhutanfound.org/the-samdrup-jongkhar-initiative-revives-mustard-cultivation-in-dewathang/) - Mustard oil has long been a product with high potential for farmers in Dewathang, a small village in Samdrup Jongkhar. The lack of equipment to produce it locally, however, has required them to travel to India — a burden making production all but inaccessible. This changed when the Samdrup Jongkhar Initiative (SJI) installed a mustard
- [The Dungkarcholing Women's Group Hopes to Expand Their Vegetable Market](https://www.bhutanfound.org/the-dungkarcholing-womens-group-hopes-to-expand-their-vegetable-market/) - A group of five inspiring women in Dewathang, Samdrup Jongkhar, has been leading by example. In 2020, when Bhutan went into lockdown, the Dungkhar Choling Women's Group responded by supplying over 4,000 kilograms of fruits, vegetables, and cereals to front-line workers and their community. Today, they're looking to expand into markets beyond Samdrup Jongkhar, and
- [Field Notes From Bhutan](https://www.bhutanfound.org/field-notes-from-bhutan/) - Food security was a primary issue for Bhutan when the pandemic began. In response to broken supply chains due to border closures, the Bhutan Foundation made a swift pivot toward supporting projects that increase local food production. Last month, our Thimphu team ventured to Eastern and Southern Bhutan to assess the progress of these projects.
- [Four-day Orientation on Inclusive Early Child Care Development (ECCD) Begins in Thimphu](https://www.bhutanfound.org/four-day-orientation-on-inclusive-early-child-care-development-eccd-begins-in-thimphu/) - Yesterday marked the start of a four-day orientation for facilitators from government and private ECCDs across the nation, led by experts from Perkins International, US. The orientation is focused on Inclusive Early Child Care and Development (ECCD). ECCD facilitators have an important role in helping children with developmental concerns become independent, contributing members of society.
- [Insights from a Four-day Orientation on Inclusive Early Child Care Development (ECCD) in Thimphu](https://www.bhutanfound.org/insights-from-a-four-day-orientation-on-inclusive-early-child-care-development-eccd-in-thimphu/) - As the first form of institution for children, Early Childhood Care and Development (ECCD) centers need to be tailored to accommodate diverse needs, rather than conforming to outdated, one-size-fits-all practices. This was a key takeaway from the orientation workshop on inclusive ECCD for facilitators from across Bhutan which concluded February 19th. 34 facilitators participated in
- [<strong>Katsho Eco Camp in Haa Prepares to Open in April 2023</strong>](https://www.bhutanfound.org/katsho-eco-camp-in-haa-prepares-to-open-in-april-2023/) - One of our 2022 Small Grants Program recipients, Katsho Eco Camp, is in full swing installing tent facilities at their site. With the support from the Foundation, they have constructed a single unit dining and meeting room, procured twelve camping tents, developed a comprehensive business plan, and launched their official website (www.katshoecocamp.com). The team hopes
- [Bhutan Foundation Signs Grant Agreements with the Samdrup Jongkhar Initiative and Wangsel Institute for the Deaf](https://www.bhutanfound.org/bhutan-foundation-signs-grant-agreements-with-the-samdrup-jongkhar-initiative-and-wangsel-institute-for-the-deaf/) - Today, the Foundation signed two grant agreements as part of the Small Grants Program with The Samdrup Jongkhar Initiative (SJI) and the Wangsel Institute for the Deaf. The Foundation will provide financial support to SJI to help expand their mustard oil extraction unit. The project objectives include the provision of proper filtration and packaging facilities
- [SEN Screening and Adaptation Tools Handed Over to Education and Skills Development Ministry](https://www.bhutanfound.org/sen-screening-and-adaptation-tools-handed-over-to-education-and-skills-development-ministry/) - To commemorate World Down Syndrome Day, the Foundation handed over 17 Brigance test sets, 19 Pre-referral Intervention Manuals (PRIM), and 20 record books to the Department of School Education under the Ministry of Education and Skills Development. These books will be distributed to new schools that have the Special Educational Needs (SEN) program in Bhutan.
- [Two-day Creative Photography Workshop for Civil Society Organizations Comes to a Close](https://www.bhutanfound.org/two-day-creative-photography-workshop-for-civil-society-organizations-ended-today/) - Powerful photographs are essential for effective communication, marketing, and fundraising by small CSOs in Bhutan, yet many communications staff at these organizations aren’t equipped with the knowledge and skills necessary to get the right shot. That’s why Mr. Jon Kolkin of JK Fine Art Photography sponsored a two-day creative photography workshop for Civil Society Organizations

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- [Reading Resources](https://www.bhutanfound.org/reading-resources/) - FEATURED BOOKS FOR CHILDREN As for the kids in your family who may be stuck at home away from school, we're also releasing our Snow Leopard Readers as free ebooks! The books available in both English and Dzongkha, is part of our Snow Leopard Conservation Education Program for schools in rural areas of Bhutan to teach
- [Support <span>Project Citizen</span><br >This Giving Tuesday!](https://www.bhutanfound.org/givingtuesday-bcmd-project-citizen/) - Donate today to the Bhutan Centre for Media and Democracy (BCMD)! In the coming years, BCMD plans to take this initiative to the local government electedleaders and administrators in highlands and districts of the country to transform the planning processes to make it evidence-based, inclusive and participatory, and more importantly to make the development plans responsive to the needs of the communities. Dr. Chencho LhamuExecutive
- [Empowering Every Child - Unlocking Abilities with Interactive Boards](https://www.bhutanfound.org/smart-board-fundraiser/) - Help us provide interactive boards for Special Education Needs schools and centers across Bhutan We’re partnering with schools in Bhutan to raise $14,600 for four interactive boards to help children with special needs. Interactive boards are touch screen boards used for presentations and teaching, and for a child with special needs, they fundamentally improve the
- [Phensem Parents Support Group](https://www.bhutanfound.org/donate-2/phensem-parents-support-group/) - As Bhutan’s first and only parent support group for children and persons with disabilities, Phensem stands as a lifeline for families in need. Donate now to Phensem Parents’ Support Group Phensem is Bhutan’s first and only support group for parents raising children with disabilities. In a small developing country like Bhutan where resources are limited
- [Donate to White-bellied Heron Conservation](https://www.bhutanfound.org/donate-2/donate-to-white-bellied-heron-conservation/) - White-bellied Heron is on the brink of extinction. Help the Royal Society for Protection of Nature bring them back! Donate TODAY to help RSPN! White-bellied Heron (WBH) is the rarest and the most critically endangered heron in the world. There are fewer than 60 of them left in the world with less than
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- [Subscribe to our Newsletter!](https://www.bhutanfound.org/subscribe-to-our-newsletter/)
- [Thank You For Your Donation!](https://www.bhutanfound.org/donate-2/thank-you-for-your-donation/) - Thank you for your generous donation! You should receive an email receipt shortly. Tax ID Number: 13-3376290 The Bhutan Foundation is a 501(c)(3) registered charitable organization in the United States. Your contribution is tax deductible to the extent allowed by law. UNITED STATES Bhutan Foundation1050 Connecticut Ave NW#66013Washington, DC 20036 Tel : +1 202 609
- [About the Bhutan Foundation](https://www.bhutanfound.org/about/) - Our Mission To support the people of Bhutan to reach their full potential by developing local capacity and facilitating global support. Since its founding in 1986 and re-launch in 2002, the Bhutan Foundation has become an active organization with offices in Thimphu, Bhutan and Washington, DC as well as around 40 partner organizations in Bhutan
- [Our Work](https://www.bhutanfound.org/our-work/)
- [Donate to Support Rangshikhar Gomdhey Retreat Centre](https://www.bhutanfound.org/donate-2/rangshikhar-gomdhey-retreat-centre/) - The Rangshikhar Community Retreat Centre supports at-risk youth through both Buddhist and traditional educational activities. Due to financial constraints following COVID-19, the most pressing challenge the Centre faces today is meeting the student's meals and basic daily needs. With your help, we hope to fund daily meals, accommodations, and basic needs for each student. There
- [Support Bhutan's National Veterinary Hospital](https://www.bhutanfound.org/support-bhutans-national-veterinary-hospital/) - Invest in Bhutan's Vets! Help Bhutan's National Veterinary Hospital acquire essential medical equipment. The National Veterinary Hospital Pet ownership is on the rise in Bhutan, a small Himalayan country bordering India and China. As the number of domestic cats and dogs has grown, so too has the need for reliable veterinary services. In 2018, Her
- [NASA DEVELOP's Final All-Bhutanese Cohort is Open for Applications](https://www.bhutanfound.org/nasa-develops-final-all-bhutanese-cohort-is-open-for-applications/) - A great opportunity for Bhutanese students in the United States! The NASA DEVELOP Program will be offering part-time Bhutan opportunities for the summer 2023 term (June 5th - August 11th). The application window is open now and will close this Friday, February 24th. If you are interested, please apply by the deadline and select the
- [Our Team is Going Green!](https://www.bhutanfound.org/gogreen/) - As part of our effort to reduce our carbon footprint, the Bhutan Foundation is happy to offer the option to receive updates digitally. Please respond below to let us know how you'd like to hear from us moving forward.
- [Featured News](https://www.bhutanfound.org/featured-news/) - Four New COVID-19 Hospitals Established March 10, 2022: The health ministry is gearing up for the new Covid-19 management strategy that the government is planning from April. The ministry has established four Covid-19 hospitals to treat positive patients in the country so far. The Covid-19 hospitals are at national Covid-19 hospital in Thimphu at Taba, regional
- [Our Response](https://www.bhutanfound.org/our-response/) - PRESS RELEASE: SIGNING OF GRANT AGREEMENT FOR COVID-19 VACCINE REACTOGENICITY AND IMMUNOGENICITY AND CAPACITY BUILDING PROJECT IN BHUTAN February 15, 2022: A Grant Agreement for the COVID-19 Vaccine Reactogenicity and Immunogenicity, and Capacity Building Project in Bhutan was signed between the Secretary of the Gross National Happiness Commission, Director of Bhutan Foundation, and President of Khesar Gyalpo University of Medical
- [Your Gift Could <span>Save a Life</span>](https://www.bhutanfound.org/donate-to-bear-your-gift-could-save-a-life/) - Donate Today to the Bhutan Emergency Aeromedical Retrieval (BEAR) Team “A lot of equipment has caused problems over the years...when we get to the scene, if the critical cause requires the patient to be intubated, we have to have a dedicated BEAR member manually resuscitating the patient. That means two hands out of the four
- [Bhutan Foundation <span>Virtual Fall Event</span>](https://www.bhutanfound.org/bhutan-foundation-fall-event-2021/) - An Evening At Wangduechhoeling Palace Hosted by Daphne Hoch Cunningham and Tshewang Wangchuk The live program has now ended. You can contact info@bhutanfound.org for the password to watch the video. DONATE NOWANNUAL REPORT 2021
- [Updates](https://www.bhutanfound.org/updates/) - July 21, 20211 new cases in the last 24 hours. Age Range: 40 years old Gender: Female Nationality: Bhutanese Case type: Phuntsholing: 1 Community Meanwhile, 54 individuals recovered today. July 20, 202128 new cases in the last 24 hours. Age Range: 2 - 63 years old Gender: 15 Male, 13 Female Nationality: All Bhutanese Case
- [Resource Links](https://www.bhutanfound.org/resource-links/) - We have compiled links to various official resource websites on COVID-19 Bhutan COVID-19 Vaccination Program Registration PortalDruk Gyalpo's Relief KiduWorld Health OrganizationMinistry of Health, Royal Government of BhutanOffice of the Prime Minister, Royal Government of BhutanKuenselBhutan Broadcasting Service Corporation Ltd.
- [Safety Awareness](https://www.bhutanfound.org/safety-awareness/)
- [NASA DEVELOP's Second All-Bhutanese Cohort is Open for Applications](https://www.bhutanfound.org/nasa-develops-second-all-bhutanese-cohort-is-open-for-applications/) - A great opportunity for Bhutanese students in the United States! The NASA DEVELOP Program will be offering part-time Bhutan opportunities for the spring 2021 term. The spring 2021 term will be conducted virtually, with all participants working remotely from within the United States. The NASA DEVELOP spring 2021 term begins on January 25th and concludes
- [Run Wild](https://www.bhutanfound.org/run-wild-campaign/) - Thank you for running wild with Tendrel Zangmo, a female tiger from Bhutan. Your participation shows support for critical policy change for endangered animals at the UN Biodiversity Summit.You can go ONE STEP further and help Bhutan Tiger Center help Tendrel and other tigers RUN WILD by making a donation. DONATE NOW! Your donation will directly help Bhutan Foundation with our work to support the Bhutan Tiger Center.The

## Our Works

- [Special Education](https://www.bhutanfound.org/our_work/special-education/) - Education for all has been and continues to be a priority for Bhutan. Recognizing a gap in special education, the Bhutan Foundation works in collaboration with the Ministry of Education’s Early Childhood Care and Development (ECCD) and Special Education Needs (SEN) Division to enhance educational opportunities for children with special needs. The program supports 12
- [Small Grants Program](https://www.bhutanfound.org/our_work/small-grants-program/) - The Small Grants Program is a unique, Thimphu-led program that supports a diverse range of programs with a shorter timeframe and smaller budget, for immediate and emerging needs.
- [Traditional Medicine](https://www.bhutanfound.org/our_work/traditional-medicine/) - Bhutan is a biodiversity hotspot with several endangered species of flora and fauna and more than 7,000 species of vascular plants. More than 600 medicinal plant species are identified in Bhutan, around half of which are currently used in preparing medicines. The Bhutanese traditional practice of medicine dates back to the eighth century and still
- [Lingzhi School](https://www.bhutanfound.org/our_work/lingzhi-school/) - Support Lingzhi School in Bhutan and build safe, climate-smart classrooms, clean water, and better living conditions for remote Himalayan students.
- [Snow Leopard Conservation](https://www.bhutanfound.org/our_work/snow-leopard-conservation/) - The Jomolhari Trek, an important leg of the famous Snowman Trek, is one of the most popular trekking routes in Bhutan and passes through prime snow leopard and blue sheep habitat. Numerous camera trap photos, signs, and DNA sampling from the region have established it as one of the best snow leopard habitats in Bhutan. Like the
- [Documentation of Heritage Sites](https://www.bhutanfound.org/our_work/documentation-of-heritage-sites/) - With rapid infrastructural development in Bhutan, significant projects have impacted both tangible and intangible cultural heritage. The need for a systematic approach to preserve our heritage has never been more urgent. With the absence of a proper database and inventory of cultural heritage sites, Bhutan faces a huge challenge in protecting the cultural heritage, particularly
- [Supporting Livelihoods through Climate Action](https://www.bhutanfound.org/our_work/supporting-livelihoods-through-climate-action/) - Climate change poses an increasing threat to livelihoods in Bhutan, particularly in rural communities that rely heavily on natural resources. The Bhutan Foundation, in collaboration with local partners, is committed to addressing these challenges through climate-smart initiatives that both protect the environment and improve the well-being of communities. In line with Bhutan’s pledge to remain
- [Eco-Tourism](https://www.bhutanfound.org/our_work/eco-tourism/) - Over 50 percent of Bhutan’s population is under the age of 25. With an increasing population in the country, a rise in youth unemployment is an emerging concern. This is further exacerbated by rural-urban migration: youth flocking to urban areas for a better life. But unemployment, substance abuse, and petty crimes are on the rise
- [Climate Change and Research](https://www.bhutanfound.org/our_work/climate-change-research/) - Bhutan is carbon negative and has committed to remaining carbon neutral, yet it is not spared the wrath of climate change. For Himalayan countries such as Bhutan, erratic weather patterns, fast receding glaciers, and the risk of Glacial Lake Outburst Floods (GLOF) have now become stark reality. Climate change, if left unchecked, can become one
- [Food Security Program](https://www.bhutanfound.org/our_work/food-security-program/) - Food security is a growing concern for Bhutan, especially in rural areas, where agriculture is the primary livelihood. The Bhutan Foundation, in collaboration with local NGOs and community-based organizations, is committed to strengthening Bhutan’s agricultural sector, ensuring that the country can meet the nutritional needs of its population. In response to challenges like climate change,
- [Palace Restoration](https://www.bhutanfound.org/our_work/palace-restoration/) - Bhutan is considered one of the last surviving buddhist monarchies in the world. Through most of the country’s early history, Bhutan witnessed attacks mainly from Tibet, and, as a consequence, all prominent structures were designed and built as fortresses or Dzongs in strategic locations throughout the country. Bhutan has continued to maintain these sites, as they
- [Renewable Energy](https://www.bhutanfound.org/our_work/renewable-energy/) - The Bhutan Foundation's renewable energy program is designed to facilitate equitable socio economic development, through improving access to reliable energy sources for remote communities in Bhutan.
- [STEM Development](https://www.bhutanfound.org/our_work/stem-development/) - Setting a strong foundation for Bhutanese scientists requires facilitating international partnerships with global leaders in research, education, and innovation. Since 2020, the Bhutan Foundation is excited to announce new partnerships in development with the European Organization for Nuclear Research in Switzerland (CERN), the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology
- [Public Health](https://www.bhutanfound.org/our_work/public-health/) - One of Bhutan’s biggest challenges is how it will be able to sustain free health care and improve health care for its citizens. The Bhutan Foundation is helping the Khesar Gyalpo University of Medical Sciences of Bhutan (KGUMSB) build institutional and systems capacity in Bhutan for strengthening public health educational programs, training, research, and policy
- [CSO Development](https://www.bhutanfound.org/our_work/cso-development/) - In Bhutan, a civil society organization (CSO) is a local nonprofit organization that is not part of the government but complements the government’s efforts and plays a significant role in the development of the country. In a small country like Bhutan, CSOs play a major role in mobilizing and sensitizing communities more effectively than government
- [Emergency Medicine Services](https://www.bhutanfound.org/our_work/emergency-medicine/) - Bhutan is seeing a significant rise in the number of vehicle-related and unintentional injuries, as well as increasing threats of natural disasters. But in a country with rugged and mountainous terrain, transport to the nearest health-care facility can take hours, which is critical to patient care. The Bhutan Foundation is working to address these issues
- [Project Citizenship](https://www.bhutanfound.org/our_work/project-citizenship/) - In response to the gap in education about a citizen’s role in a democracy, the Bhutan Foundation in partnership with BCMD started Project Mikhung (Project Citizenship) in 2019 with a goal to nurture a culture of democratic school governance where there is active participation from all school community members, including students, parents, teachers, staff, and

## Statistics

- [Projects Supported in 2025](https://www.bhutanfound.org/statistics/projects-ongoing/) - It is a long established fact that a reader will be distracted by the readable content of a page when looking at its layout. The point of using Lorem Ipsum is that it has a more-or-less normal distribution of letters, as opposed to using 'Content here, content here', making it look like readable English. Many
- [Partners Facilitated in 2025](https://www.bhutanfound.org/statistics/partnerships-facilitated/)
- [Total Funds Raised in 2025](https://www.bhutanfound.org/statistics/usd-raised-since-2015/)
- [Years of Operations in Bhutan](https://www.bhutanfound.org/statistics/things-accomplished/)

## WC Donation

- [Donate to Partner](https://www.bhutanfound.org/wc-donation/donate-to-partner/)
- [Donation](https://www.bhutanfound.org/wc-donation/donation/)

## Jobs

- [Bhutan Foundation Communications Officer](https://www.bhutanfound.org/jobs/bhutan-foundation-communications-officer/) - *Resumes are reviewed on a rolling basis. Please email your resume, cover letter, portfolio and three references (references will only be contacted if the candidate is shortlisted). Interested candidates should email materials to jobs@bhutanfound.org* The Bhutan Foundation Communications Officer is responsible for planning, producing,and overseeing the execution of marketing and communication strategies including media, publications,
- [Sample Job](https://www.bhutanfound.org/jobs/thjm-sample-job/) - We’re seeking an experienced IT support person to join us on this journey, using their technology skills to make us even more efficient. In this role, the support person will oversee IT systems and assets, assist with upgrades and fixes, and provide training and support as needed. The ideal candidate will have extensive knowledge of

## Categories

- [Uncategorized](https://www.bhutanfound.org/category/uncategorized/)
- [Latest News](https://www.bhutanfound.org/category/latest-news/)
- [News on COVID-19](https://www.bhutanfound.org/category/covid19/)
- [Announcements](https://www.bhutanfound.org/category/announcements/)
- [Small Grants Update](https://www.bhutanfound.org/category/small-grants-update/)
- [Field Notes](https://www.bhutanfound.org/category/field-notes/)
- [Updates](https://www.bhutanfound.org/category/updates/)

## Tags

- [covid](https://www.bhutanfound.org/tag/covid/)
- [public health](https://www.bhutanfound.org/tag/public-health/)
- [emergency medical](https://www.bhutanfound.org/tag/emergency-medical/)
- [COVID-19](https://www.bhutanfound.org/tag/covid-19/)
- [COVID19](https://www.bhutanfound.org/tag/covid19/)
- [publichealth](https://www.bhutanfound.org/tag/publichealth/)
- [dragonwebinar](https://www.bhutanfound.org/tag/dragonwebinar/)
- [news](https://www.bhutanfound.org/tag/news/)
- [sped](https://www.bhutanfound.org/tag/sped/)
- [tiger](https://www.bhutanfound.org/tag/tiger/)
- [environment](https://www.bhutanfound.org/tag/environment/)
- [culture](https://www.bhutanfound.org/tag/culture/)
- [smallgrants](https://www.bhutanfound.org/tag/smallgrants/)
- [snowleopard](https://www.bhutanfound.org/tag/snowleopard/)
- [stem](https://www.bhutanfound.org/tag/stem/)
- [Heroes](https://www.bhutanfound.org/tag/heroes/)
- [tigers](https://www.bhutanfound.org/tag/tigers/)
- [palace](https://www.bhutanfound.org/tag/palace/)
- [ems](https://www.bhutanfound.org/tag/ems/)
- [ecotourism](https://www.bhutanfound.org/tag/ecotourism/)
- [cso](https://www.bhutanfound.org/tag/cso/)
- [eco](https://www.bhutanfound.org/tag/eco/)
- [traditionalmedicine](https://www.bhutanfound.org/tag/traditionalmedicine/)
- [traditional medicine](https://www.bhutanfound.org/tag/traditional-medicine/)
- [nhc](https://www.bhutanfound.org/tag/nhc/)
- [snowleoapard](https://www.bhutanfound.org/tag/snowleoapard/)
- [bcmd](https://www.bhutanfound.org/tag/bcmd/)
- [new](https://www.bhutanfound.org/tag/new/)
- [jswlawlibrary](https://www.bhutanfound.org/tag/jswlawlibrary/)
- [small grants](https://www.bhutanfound.org/tag/small-grants/)
- [climatechange](https://www.bhutanfound.org/tag/climatechange/)
- [snowleopards](https://www.bhutanfound.org/tag/snowleopards/)
- [events](https://www.bhutanfound.org/tag/events/)
- [pandemic](https://www.bhutanfound.org/tag/pandemic/)
- [inclusive](https://www.bhutanfound.org/tag/inclusive/)
- [trasparency](https://www.bhutanfound.org/tag/trasparency/)
- [accountability](https://www.bhutanfound.org/tag/accountability/)
- [special education](https://www.bhutanfound.org/tag/special-education/)
- [innovations](https://www.bhutanfound.org/tag/innovations/)
- [science](https://www.bhutanfound.org/tag/science/)
- [technology](https://www.bhutanfound.org/tag/technology/)
- [business](https://www.bhutanfound.org/tag/business/)
- [US State Department](https://www.bhutanfound.org/tag/us-state-department/)
- [Update](https://www.bhutanfound.org/tag/update/)
- [Video](https://www.bhutanfound.org/tag/video/)
- [Thank You](https://www.bhutanfound.org/tag/thank-you/)
- [field stories](https://www.bhutanfound.org/tag/field-stories/)
- [#RunWild](https://www.bhutanfound.org/tag/runwild/)
- [event](https://www.bhutanfound.org/tag/event/)
- [stroke](https://www.bhutanfound.org/tag/stroke/)
- [partner in focus](https://www.bhutanfound.org/tag/partner-in-focus/)
- [million tree program](https://www.bhutanfound.org/tag/million-tree-program/)
- [carbon negative](https://www.bhutanfound.org/tag/carbon-negative/)
- [vacancy](https://www.bhutanfound.org/tag/vacancy/)

## Programs

- [Environmental Conservation](https://www.bhutanfound.org/programs/environmental-conservation/) - It was with conservation in mind that the Constitution of Bhutan was drafted to include a stipulation that 60 percent of land in Bhutan shall, for all time, remain under forest cover.
- [Sustainable Development](https://www.bhutanfound.org/programs/sustainable-development/) - Bhutan’s criteria for development are equal parts social and economic. A crucial element to this growth goal is to ensure that these services and opportunities are available to the most disadvantaged populations in society.
- [Cultural Preservation](https://www.bhutanfound.org/programs/cultural-preservation/) - In the quest for development, many countries in the developing world have sacrificed or neglected their cultures and traditions in pursuit of GDP. Bhutan sees culture as central to its identity for its people and as a nation.
- [Good Governance](https://www.bhutanfound.org/programs/good-governance/) - Democracy was introduced in Bhutan in 2008, making it the youngest democracy to be established under peaceful measures.

## Campaign Categories

- [Donation](https://www.bhutanfound.org/donation-category/donation/)
- [Donate to Partner](https://www.bhutanfound.org/donation-category/donate-to-partner/)

## Job Categories

- [IT & Networking](https://www.bhutanfound.org/thjm_job_category/it-networking/)
- [Sales and Marketing](https://www.bhutanfound.org/thjm_job_category/sales-and-marketing/)

## Locations

- [California](https://www.bhutanfound.org/thjm_job_locations/california/)
- [Washington DC](https://www.bhutanfound.org/thjm_job_locations/washington-dc/)

## Job Types

- [Full-time](https://www.bhutanfound.org/thjm_job_type/full-time/)