Some schools in Pema Gatshel are embracing hands-on learning on growing fruit trees and vegetables, while a few are trying mushroom cultivation to equip students with practical life skills. The Bamung Venture Club, a student-led initiative at Yurung Central School has been cultivating oyster mushrooms successfully for the past five years. While many mushroom growers in the village struggle to sustain their farms, the club has continued to flourish.
The initiative is unique to Yurung Central School.
From collecting straw and spawn for mushroom to cultivating it, students manage the entire process by themselves.
In a year, they produce 50 kilogrammes and earn Nu 300 per kilogramme.
This has not only helped them earn some cash but they are gaining valuable agricultural skills as well.
There are currently 16 students in the club.
Ugyen Penjor, coordinator of Bamung Venture Club, Yurung CS, Pema Gatshel said “We don’t have to pay daily wages to students. Instead of paying wages, we equip them with skills. That is why our club has been able to sustain.”
Deki Yangdon, a member said “We get straw for mushroom cultivation from our village, so we only need to buy the spawn. We believe we can earn more. If we do not qualify for higher studies in the future, we can easily take this up as a career.”
Kinley Wangdi, another member said “I joined this club to learn how to grow mushrooms. That way, I can continue this work and earn a living in the future.”
Market access has never been a problem, as they sell to their school mess and nearby residents.
From that money, the students go on tour and support school welfare activities.
The coordinator said “We have a small shed that can accommodate only 200 bags. If we can process more bags, we can earn even more.”
Recently, the Pema Gatshel Dzongda visited the club and instructed the relevant officials from district administration to support such initiatives.
The club continues to grow as a promising model for school-based entrepreneurship, combining education with livelihood skills for the next generation.
Thinley Dorji, Pema Gatshel
