Rangtse, Bhutan: The Civil Society Organization(CSO) has been promoting the development of youth in Bhutan. For the youth that has been dependent upon agriculture for income, the Civil Society Organization is remunerating these youngsters for the maintenance of their villages. This, ultimately, is leading to better economic standards of living for the youth of Bhutan.
An organization named The Organization for Youth Development(OYE) under the Bhutan Jamchong Thuendrel Foundation( BJTF) also provides the youth with resources for the maintenance of their villages. It is noteworthy that the young beneficiaries are mostly school dropouts who work along with their parents on their farms.
As the Tshogpa of the Rangtse Chiwog, Sangay Tenpa, stated, the project has been helping in the maintenance of the sacred site. Moreover, if the project continues over a period of time, the employment prospects in the village will definitely improve, and the younger generations can also serve here on a regular basis.“
An instance of, 20-year-old, Sangay Lhendup, who lost his father at 19 and has been bearing all the responsibilities since then, has joined the OYE. From having to work in Cardamom fields, Lhendup is now earning from the projects of the organization as well as getting to learn masonry skills. He, along with his friends, has been working on the renovation of an ancient trail from Rangste village to Rangtse Nye on a daily wage basis.
Along with the employment, the 20-year-old has also been contributing in social work as well. The organization currently employs 22 youngsters who have completed the renovation of the trail between the Haa-Samstse highway and the pilgrimage site.
As Bhutan Live reported, the youngsters have benefitted with employment opportunities within their village, and they don’t need to search for work in other places; therefore, they can stay in their village and take care of their families as well.
The CSO is also planning the construction of a homestay cafeteria, a hot stone bath facility and a farm produce sales counter near the pilgrimage site, which will also be handled by the youth that is currently engaged in the sustainability projects.
