YaY-Gokab brought employers and jobseekers together in an effort to address Bhutan’s persistent skills and employment gap, particularly among young people. Organised by the Department of Employment and Entrepreneurship, the two-day event featured 17 private employers and training providers offering 227 positions, attracting more than 400 jobseekers. Around 35 people secured jobs on the spot in fields including technical trades, driving, hospitality and administration. The initiative followed the department’s direct outreach to registered jobseekers, many of whom were unaware of available employment and training opportunities. For fresh graduates, the event offered a rare chance to meet employers directly and overcome the common barrier of lacking work experience. Employers, meanwhile, welcomed the opportunity to recruit and introduce earn-and-learn options for inexperienced workers. The department said it will continue supporting participants through referrals, training opportunities and follow-up services. While some graduates found that available positions were concentrated in technical and trade roles, the event highlighted the importance of matching skills and qualifications with labour-market needs. YaY-Gokab demonstrates that connecting employers and jobseekers face to face can be a practical first step towards narrowing Bhutan’s employment gap.
