In a bid to create sustainable business opportunities for rural out-of-school youth, basic entrepreneurship training is ongoing in Zhemgang. The training is conducted to equip rural unemployed youth with business proposal developing skills. After the 15-day training, the participants will pitch their business ideas to investors from which the best ones will be selected.
Among the 18 youths from far-flung villages of Zhemgang, who are attending the basic entrepreneurship training, is 22-year-old Sonam Pelden.
She already has a National Certificate-III in culinary arts. Through the training, she is exploring means to establish a startup in Zhemgang.
“I have learnt how to find business ideas, how to write a proposal, and start my own business. My proposal is about the production of various spice powders with locally available produce such as garlic, ginger, and cardamom,” said Sonam Pelden, a participant.
“I find that there is a potential for homestay business in my village. Through the training, I got ideas about starting a sustainable business,” said Kinley Lhamo, who is also a participant.
The training is funded by the Ministry of Industry, Commerce and Employment’s Employment and Entrepreneurship Department in collaboration with Zhemgang District Administration.
During the training, participants are encouraged to think creatively and explore various business ideas within their communities.
Tandin Norbu, a freelance trainer said, “we have told them to come up with business ideas that can provide solutions to common societal problems and one which is feasible and sustainable. We also train them in developing business plans or business proposals.”
After the training, most of the participants are planning to avail themselves of microloans to start businesses.
This is expected to help address youth unemployment issues in the district.
Zhemgang has one of the highest youth unemployment rates in the country.
Pema Samdrup, Zhemgang
Edited by Sangay Chezom
