In the spirit of Druk Tshongrig Gatoen (DTG), the Loden Foundation, in collaboration with ImpactHub Thimphu, organised the Student Empowerment through Entrepreneurship Development (SEED) programme. Held from 4–9 November 2024, this transformative initiative took place at three esteemed institutions: Druk School, Royal Thimphu College, and Choki Traditional Art School.
The SEED programme is a unique initiative designed to ignite the entrepreneurial spirit within Bhutanese students in schools, colleges, and institutions. At its core, SEED empowers young minds to explore their potential and turn innovative ideas into reality by providing the fundamental concepts and skills of social entrepreneurship. This early exposure to self-employment, social enterprise development, job creation, and career development equips students to thrive in the private sector while addressing pressing societal needs.
Highlights from SEED 2024
With 81 budding entrepreneurs participating, the programme sparked creativity and entrepreneurial thinking, paving pathways for job creation and social enterprise innovation.
Winning Ideas from SEED 2024:
- Druk School: Party Planner – Transforming the way events are organised with innovative planning solutions.
- Royal Thimphu College: Pad Dispensing Machine – Revolutionising menstrual health accessibility and awareness.
- Choki Traditional Arts School: Druk Traditional Model – Preserving Bhutanese heritage through creative traditional crafts.
These groundbreaking ideas are examples of the immense potential of young Bhutanese minds when provided with the right skills, mentorship, and platforms.
Why SEED Matters?
By nurturing an entrepreneurial mindset, SEED fosters the development of Bhutan’s next generation of innovators and changemakers. The programme reflects the Loden Foundation’s dedication to promoting social entrepreneurship, preserving cultural heritage, and building a resilient future for Bhutan.
Together, let us empower young Bhutanese minds to shape a better tomorrow through innovation and enterprise!
By Kinley C Tenzin, Communications Officer, Loden Foundation