The Department of Labour launched the Community for Skilled Workers (C4SW), a new initiative on 22nd February. It is aimed at enhancing Bhutan’s workforce and supporting economic growth. The initiative is expected to increase employment opportunities, promote service excellence, and improve service accessibility in the country.
The industry, commerce, and employment minister attended the launch alongside ministry officials and members of the C4SW.
The platform targets young Technical and Vocational Education and Training graduates, self-taught professionals, and those trained through short-term programmes, offering them opportunities for professional growth and recognition. C4SW also addresses the challenge of underemployment, especially among young skilled workers, by providing a pathway to stable, local employment.
This initiative is expected to help reduce the need for workers to seek employment overseas, fostering sustainable livelihoods within Bhutan.
“In the past, people with vocational and technical skills were highly respected, and there was strong demand for their work. But somewhere along the way, trust in skilled workers declined. Rebuilding that trust won’t be easy, but we are committed to ensuring that the country gets high-quality workers from within,” said Nima Dorji, Head of Welfare, Loan, and Dispute Resolution at C4SW.
A key feature of C4SW is the Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) certification, which allows workers with prior experience but no formal certification to gain official recognition of their skills. By offering access to re-skilling and up-skilling programs, C4SW will ensure that workers remain competitive in a rapidly evolving market. The platform also promises fair pricing, accountability, and a six-month service warranty for clients, enhancing customer trust.
“Even though we have skilled workers, no one came forward to take on projects like this. So, a group of us approached the Ministry of Industry, Commerce, and Employment. We did it not just for ourselves, but for future generations who choose vocational and technical careers,” said Karma Drukgyel, Regional Coordinator, C4SW.”
Many TTI graduates struggle to find jobs, some have had to become taxi drivers or barbers despite their training. That’s why it’s truly heartwarming to see an initiative like this being launched, giving skilled workers new opportunities,” said Ramesh Biswa, Regional Coordinator, C4SW.
“I faced many hardships trying to make a living with no support system. It was a constant struggle. That’s why this initiative means so much to me, and I sincerely thank everyone who made it possible,” said Aita Singh Rai, Regional Coordinator, C4SW.
C4SW is organised into units focused on welfare, dispute resolution, training, and quality assurance. With 22 regional coordinators across all districts, the platform ensures local reach, helping skilled workers connect with clients and explore job opportunities. However, the members of the initiative say that further funding is required for its success.”
Give us a chance, and we will prove the value of our work. I urge people not to dismiss us, we need encouragement, not disregard. I also appeal to the government to support us financially because, with the right backing, we can achieve great things,” said Nima Dorji, Head of Welfare, Loan, and Dispute Resolution, C4SW.
Skilled workers can apply for membership via the C4SW website, which also allows clients to book services easily. The members said they hope to go beyond plumbing and electrical work in the future and introduce skilled workers in other fields as well.
Karma Samten Wangda
Edited by Kipchu
