Labour Department Supports RPL Test for C4SW Members

The Department of Labour (DoL), MoICE organized a Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) program for 45 C4SW plumbers & electricians. BQPCA conducts the assessment at Kuendrup Institute of Innovation and Technology. It is funded through the ESP.

This modest initiative represents the facilitative role of the labour department, going beyond its regulatory mandate to promote local employment and build a skilled workforce.

The labour department initiated similar RPL programs under ESP support last year & found that this program had transformed the lives of nearly 100 young local plumbers & electricians who could not pursue both higher education & formal skills training. Many former RPL graduates, now proudly working under C4SW, said the RPL was a game-changer in their lives, as it empowered them to work as certified tradespeople required by Bhutan Building Regulations. One of them said, "We are now able to serve ourselves, families, and the nation better now!"

The program is expected to directly benefit 45 participants. It'll indirectly impact around 180 workers under their mentorship within the C4SW framework, contributing to real local employment, self-reliance, and upliftment of Bhutanese families and communities. “Even if we change few ordinary lives & families through our initiative, that’s it! Even if the funding is limited, our vision to empower Bhutanese tradespeople will remain limitless,” said a labour officer.