Gone are the days when a college degree alone guaranteed a secure career. In today’s global job markets, qualifications must be matched with practical skills. Recognising this, the Bhutan Chamber of Commerce and Industry (BCCI), in collaboration with Thimphu-based NLD Training Institute, has trained hundreds of Bhutanese in Bhutanese and Continental Culinary Arts.
A team led by Tshering Dema, a seasoned chef with over fourteen years of experience at a reputed resort and the De-suung Skilling Programme, concluded the week-long training in Tsirang yesterday.
They trained hoteliers, restaurateurs, housewives, and out-of-school youth to prepare around 30 continental and five Bhutanese dishes.
Participants prepared a wide range of meals, from pastries to organic salad with Thai dressing.
“I think it is important to have both knowledge and skills. I am quite interested in cooking and learning different culinary techniques,” said Tapas Ghimeray, a participant.
“I plan to open a hotel in the next two to three months, so I joined the training. I was already familiar with Bhutanese dishes, but I learned how to prepare pizzas and cakes,” said Tashi Yangden, a participant.
The same training was also conducted in Gelephu.
“One of the most fascinating aspects of the training was learning how to make Chinese noodles and various types of pasta, areas in which we previously had little to no experience,” said Sangay Yuden, a participant in Gelephu.
“While we did have some basic understanding, the methods of preparation and presentation were quite different from what we know. Often, we would simply use whatever ingredients were available without much focus on proper sequencing or technique,” said Rinchen Zangpo, another participant in Gelephu.
According to the lead trainer, demand for Western cuisine is expected to grow with the arrival of international investors for the Gelephu Mindfulness City project. Acquiring these culinary skills will help businesses grow and increase their earnings.
Head Trainer Tshering Dema said, “The skills the participants acquired during the training will be very useful if they plan to start hotel and restaurant businesses. I have taught them how to prepare a variety of dishes served in high-end hotels and restaurants.”
“We want to see you as employers, smart entrepreneurs, creating sustainable jobs for others. We have to begin somewhere. There is a tremendous scope for us to grow because tourism is also picking up. We have to really bring in innovative business ideas,” Chandra B. Chhetri, BCCI’s Secretary General.
Apart from Tsirang and Gelephu, similar trainings were conducted in Bumthang, Samdrup Jongkhar, Pema Gatshel, and Zhemgang. Participants were awarded certificates upon completion.
Pema Tshewang, Tsirang & Karma Wangdi, Gelephu
Edited by Sangay Chezom
