Dr. Wangyel stated that REC is interested in teacher’s training,
enhancing ICT skills, developing agriculture business programs, and
participation in joint projects. Bhutan is trying to capitalize on the
concept of Gross National Happiness, while at the same time focusing on
capacity development.
The delegation informed AIT that the King of Bhutan established REC in
2007, but since then it has been transferred to the office of the Prime
Minister. The mandate of REC is a focus on innovation, and introduction
of reforms in the education sector.
Welcoming the delegation, Dr. Jonathan Shaw, Executive Director, AIT
Extension stated that AIT has considerable expertise in the field of
education training and development in Pakistan and Sri Lanka. Thailand,
and particularly AIT has a lot to offer to Bhutan, and AIT can create
customized programs depending on the needs of REC, he said. He remarked
that REC could also engage with the Yunus Center at AIT, which is
dealing with issues related to social business and microfinance.
Dr. Rajendra Shrestha of AIT’s School of Environment, Resources and
Development (SERD) mentioned AIT’s contribution to Bhutan and the role
played by AIT alumni in the field of environment, forestry and natural
resource management. He expressed interest in REC’s Teachers Needs
Assessment program. Dr. Sangam Shrestha of AIT’s School of Engineering
and Technology (SET) stated that AIT could collaborate in contributing
towards the development of ICT in Bhutan. He suggested student and
faculty mobility, along with short courses ranging from a few weeks to
an entire semester as possible areas of collaboration.
The delegation comprised of Ms. Tashi Lhamb and Mr. Pedup Dukpa,
Research Officers; and Mr. Sonam Tobgye, Assistant Lecturer, Centernary
Institute of Education (CIE), REC. Mr. Tenzin Rabgyal, Senior Program
Officer, External Relations and Communications Office (ERCO); Ms.
Tripti Rajbhandari, Program Officer, SET; and Ms. Binita Gurung,
Program Assistant, School of Management, AIT also participated in the
deliberations.
Details about REC are available at this link: http://www.rec.org.bt
