In an effort to empower families left behind by conventional educational and support systems, the Draktsho Vocational Training Centre for Children and Youth with Disabilities is starting a significant project to teach 80 parents of children with disabilities. In each district, parents will get free hands-on training in various art-based disciplines, such as weaving baskets and cloth, and sewing, for two weeks. Employment options will be sought for people who want to work following their training, and training materials and equipment will be given away for free during the training. Project is a component of Draktsho’s continuous outreach program, which was started in 2022 to reach school dropouts, children from low-income families who are unable to access mainstream programs, and children who remain at home because of severe disabilities.
Draktsho provides training to 200 PwDs, restoring dignity and promoting independence. 65 SEN students joined, 30 dropped out, and 30 remain at home. According to Draktsho officials, the biggest issues facing Bhutan’s handicap community are a lack of awareness and inadequate infrastructure. Draktsho occupational Training Centre aims to help children and youth with disabilities become economically independent and engaged by teaching occupational skills, bridging gaps in the disability assistance system.