A group of life science students from Sherubtse College are deep in the forest of Kharungla – observing, recording, and learning. The field trip is part of their coursework. Following the field activities, they return to their base. But unlike before, they now return to improved facilities: a proper camping site, kitchen, and toilets.
“One of the major challenges we used to face was the lack of a dedicated field research facility,” shares Chimi Lhamo Lama, a Bachelor of Science student.
The outdoor research facility was inaugurated recently. It is expected to strengthen practical learning and support long-term ecological research.
Earlier, students had to travel to other districts, including Bumdeling and Sakteng Wildlife Sanctuaries, for field research.
“While these sites provided valuable opportunities for biodiversity-related research, the travel, accommodation costs, and time required made field visits challenging,” Chimi adds.
Students say that besides reducing logistical challenges, the new facility will allow them to focus more on understanding the local ecology and biodiversity of the area. Kharungla is identified as a key biodiversity area, home to a wide range of species and ecosystems.
“With such facilities, people can better understand and place greater importance on conserving local biodiversity,” says Sonam Rigden, another science student.
According to the college, the facility is expected to benefit not only students but also visiting researchers and birdwatchers interested in studying the area’s biodiversity.
The facility, worth Nu 2.5 M, was developed with support from the Bhutan Trust Fund for Environmental Conservation.
Sonam Darjay, Trashigang
