In Phuentshogling, for the first time in their lives, a group of people living with disabilities and women in difficult circumstances are stepping into a world of opportunity. Through a special support programme made possible by RENEW, Phuentsholing Thromde and the Ministry of Industry, Commerce and Employment, they are beginning their paid internships.
25-year-old Tandin Tshedup Dorji, who is both physically and visually challenged, is the youngest of three siblings.
With his two older siblings living away for work, it has always been just Tandin and his mother at home.
He took charge of household chores, finding comfort in cleaning and dedicating himself to altar-related work. But deep down, he longed for something more, a chance to work, to earn, and to support the one person who has stood by him through everything: his mother.
Today, their smiles say it all. Tandin’s dream has finally come true as he begins his journey as an office helper at the BCCI office in Phuentshogling. For him, this is not just a job, it is dignity, independence, and the chance to give back to the woman who has given him everything.
“I am very happy today. I never thought that I would get a job like this. I used to stay at home, but now I will be going to work and getting a salary with which I will help my mother. It is like a dream come true.”
Like Tandin, this programme has come as a blessing for Sabitra Acharya, a mother who has dedicated every single day to caring for her son with disabilities at Sonamgang Primary School.
For the first time in years, she will not only continue to care for her son but also earn an income while doing so as she works as a caregiver at Sonamgang Primary School, an identified Special Education Needs (SEN) school in Phuentshogling.
“Since I have to be with my son all the time, I could not do any other work; as a result, financial strain was huge. So, knowing my issue, RENEW employment service centre in Phuentshogling, the thromde office, and Sonamgang’s principal have given me this opportunity for which I will always remain grateful.”
RENEW officials said this was possible because of the collaborative support in the community.
“People facing challenges, including women in difficult circumstances, often struggle to step into the world. Finding employment is especially tough due to their lack of experience. This one-year programme will not only provide them with valuable job experience but also boost their self-esteem and confidence. By the end of the programme, they will be better prepared and confident,” said Pema Choki, Centre Manager, RENEW Community Service Centre, Phuentshogling.
“I am truly happy that we could contribute to this initiative. We should not leave them idle at home. This programme will help them develop skills while also serving as a platform to enhance their mental well-being, instill discipline, and expand their knowledge,” said Dawa, Regional Manager, Bhutan Postal Corporation, Phuentshogling.
As part of the programme, nine persons with disabilities and three women in difficult circumstances will be working at various agencies in Phuentshogling. They will be paid by the ministry.
This initiative is more than just employment for the beneficiaries; it is a chance to reclaim dignity, build confidence, and chase dreams that once felt out of their reach.
Kinley Dem, Chhukha
Edited by Phub Gyem
