It is uncommon to see Bhutanese youth opting for blue-collar jobs. But this is changing as unemployment grows. A large number of youth, 55 male and 70 female, have taken up blue-collar jobs at a hotel construction in Thimphu.
Salman Subba, a class XII graduate, has worked at the hotel construction project for several months now. Salman says unemployment compelled him and many of his friends to become construction workers.
“I am getting a lot of experience here,” he says.
Like Salman, there are more than 100 other Bhutanese youth doing the same job.
Project officials say they were hesitant at first to employ inexperienced youth. But they have proved them wrong. The Project officials say they are all doing well.
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“In terms of attitude, they have the right attitude and we have had no issues with the quality of work they have produced so far,” says Basant Raj Chettri, the Project Manager.
The qualification of these workers ranges from class five to twelve. They have been employed on short and long term basis.
The labour ministry says seeing the large number of youth taking up construction works is refreshing and a positive sign. The Labor Minister joined the youth in their work on Friday.
“When the construction completes soon, you will garner skills. So even if u go and work in other companies, skills are required. If you have skills, it is priceless,” the Labour Minister, Ngeema Sangay Tshempo was speaking to the youth.
“Employers won’t be able to fire you. Even if you study class 10 or you are illiterate, it doesn’t matter. If have skills and know how to work, we will conduct an exam to see whether you have skills or not. If you get through, you will be awarded certificates,” he added.
The Lyonpo urged the youth not to be embarrassed of doing such jobs. The large turnout for the construction job, often deemed unattractive, is expected pave a way for other unemployed youths to take up blue-collar jobs. It will also help dispel the common perception that the Bhutanese youth lack right attitude and workmanship.
