The Director and officials of the Bhutan Qualifications and Professionals Certification Authority (BQPCA) visited four private Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institutes in Gelephu on 14-15 October including Kunjung Institute of Technology and Innovation (KITI), Kuendrup Institute of Innovation Technology (KIIT), Rabzang Driving Training Institute, and USD Driving Training Institute.

The visits provided an opportunity to engage with institute management, staff, and trainers; understand ongoing training programmes; and discuss future plans, institutional challenges, and opportunities for growth. The engagements reaffirmed the importance of close collaboration between BQPCA and private TVET providers in strengthening the quality, relevance, and recognition of vocational qualifications in Bhutan.

During the interactions, Dr Ugyen Tshewang, Director of BQPCA, highlighted the vital role of private TVET institutes in developing a competent workforce, expanding employment opportunities, and contributing to national economic growth. He also emphasised the importance of preparing a skilled workforce to support the development of Gelephu Mindfulness City (GMC), encouraging the institutes to anticipate emerging skills requirements and adopt innovative, forward-looking approaches to training.

The institutes were encouraged to explore opportunities to introduce higher-level programmes, establish partnerships with recognised international institutions, and benchmark their programmes against relevant international standards. Strengthening institutional capacity, recruiting competent trainers, and continuously improving training quality and relevance were underscored as essential to sustainable institutional development.

The discussions also highlighted the importance of enhancing the recognition and value of vocational qualifications and ensuring that graduates possess the practical skills, professional competencies, and attitudes required by industry and society. For driving institutes, particular emphasis was placed on professionalism, discipline, road safety, and responsible driving behaviour to prepare competent and responsible drivers.

BQPCA reaffirmed its commitment to engaging with private TVET providers to support institutional development, encourage innovation, expand training opportunities, and promote continuous quality improvement in accordance with applicable regulatory and quality assurance requirements.

The visits reflect BQPCA’s continued efforts to strengthen partnerships with TVET providers and build a quality-assured, responsive, and skilled workforce in support of Bhutan’s development priorities, including the emerging opportunities associated with Gelephu Mindfulness City.