The idea to make organic fertiliser wins the Social Hackathon 2025. The team of four took home Nu 500,000. The three-day hackathon ended on Saturday. It showcased a range of innovative ideas to address social, environmental, and community-based challenges.
Team “Beyond Organic,” is about producing organic fertiliser.
The DeSuung Skilling Programme trained three of its members in organic fertiliser production in 2021. They decided to apply their skills and develop this idea for the competition.
It is not just an idea. They are already producing the fertiliser at a farm in Hongtsho. They use materials like rice husk, azolla, and vegetable waste. However, they said that due to a lack of facilities and funds, they have not been able to turn it into a business or bring their product to the market.
“Our product has not yet come to the market. As we produce the fertiliser and use it on our own farm, we knew that the product is coming out to be good. Therefore, we are now looking forward to using the prize money and bringing our product to the market,” said Tshewang Gyelmo, from the team Beyond Organic.
A team of Gyalpozhing College of Information and Technology students secured second place with their idea, Zorighub. It is a web application that creates a marketplace for local artists. They noted that local artists struggle with market saturation, as consumers often opt for cheaper imported products.
“Our next phase will be to bring our prototype to our website, and we will make artists to register on our website. We will make them post their products on our website, and we will advertise our website and services through social media platforms,” said Tshering Dorji from team Zorighub.
Similarly, the team ZHICARE came third.
Tshulthrim Tenzin from team ZHICARE said, “It is about coming up with a vending machine for sanitary pads, and if the business grows, we are also looking forward to manufacturing sanitary pads.”
All the participants will now receive further mentorship and support for the next two months.
“This includes guidance and training on how to move forward with their businesses and where to seek financial support. They have participated in the competition, but it is up to them to implement their ideas. There are many others who are willing to support them,” said Tashi Wangdi, the founder of the Impact Hub Thimphu.
Ten teams took part in the youth-focused initiative designed to foster innovation and entrepreneurship.
Sangay Chozom
Edited by Tandin Phuntsho
