Education Projects
Digital Classroom Project
Nyo Education Initiative has the objective guided by the vision of our founder the 28th Sumtrhang Choeje Lama Jatsho aka Choeje Wangdrag Jamtsho to support school and education. This is because education is key to awareness and awareness is key to community vitality, peace, harmony and happiness. Towards that objective, the foundation in recent times has been working with its partners and donors to support rural schools for digital classroom to bridge the digital gap for rural schools in the country. It is aimed at not only offering access to digital experience for the teachers and students but also to ensure digital awareness as the world heads into a digital era. Depending on the successful fund mobilization, we aim to support rural schools with smart boards for digital learning and teaching experience. Since 2021, the Foundation has distributed over 40 interactive smartboards to schools across Bhutan, including Ura, Geserling, Bjishong, and Sonamthang Central Schools. These smartboards are bridging the digital divide and modernizing classroom learning. The project was implemented in partnership with ASIA ETS based in Rome, and was co-financed by the province of Bolzano, Italy.
Heritage Scholarship for 2 DoCDD
In line with Bhutan Nyo Foundation’s objective to foster an enlightened society in Bhutan through promotion and preservation of Bhutan’s traditional religion, its principles and values in practice. Bhutan Heritage Scholarship under the Nyo Initiative for Culture and Heritage is established with funding support from Central European University (CEU) based in Austria and Hungary, and the Association for International Solidarity for Asia known as the ASIA foundation based in Rome, Italy dedicated to preservation and promotion of Himalayan culture and heritage. This scholarship is expected to benefit at least 10 Bhutanese mid-career professional working in the field of cultural preservation. A memorandum has also been signed with the Department of Culture (DoC) of the Royal Government of Bhutan to offer scholarship support to at least five mid-career officials beginning 2020 academic year to 2030 aimed at building professional expertise in their respective filed of works. It is in recognition of the importance of academic thoughts that has to go with practical skills in the interpretation of cultural heritage required in the professionals working in both tangible and intangible cultures of Bhutan. By 2030 the scholarship initiative is expected to at least support ten deserving and dedicated Bhutanese in the Cultural Heritage Studies. The program is a fully funded scholarship program where the recipients of the scholarship will study in CEU in vienna, Austria for two years leading to Masters of Arts in Cultural Heritage Studies with major in research, policy and management. Our first scholar of the Bhutan Heritage Scholarship Program under the initiative is Mr. Dhendup Tshewang and the 2nd scholar is Mr. Oema Wangchuk.
Yelchen Sponsorship Program
In 2024, the Foundation implemented a comprehensive support initiative at Yelchen Central School in Pemagatshel, Bhutan, aimed at improving the learning environment for 33 students and fostering holistic development through various programs. Essential supplies, including stationery, uniforms, and hostel items, were provided to economically disadvantaged students to ensure their academic pursuits remained unhindered. Additionally, a printer was donated to support the school’s operational needs, enabling efficient production of learning materials and enhancing the overall teaching and learning process. These interventions not only addressed immediate necessities but also laid the foundation for long-term educational improvements. The project also emphasized extracurricular and academic excellence, encouraging students, especially NYO scholars, to engage in diverse activities. Notable achievements included medals won at the District Taekwondo competition by three NYO scholars and active participation in cultural programs, social works, and school sports. Furthermore, discussions with school administration identified areas for future collaboration, such as resources for music and tailoring clubs, sports tournaments, and digital learning tools, which align with the vision of nurturing well-rounded students. The academic performance of students reflected encouraging trends, with several students excelling in their exams, though challenges remain for those requiring additional academic support. Through these efforts, the Druk Nyo Foundation reinforced its commitment to creating an enriching educational environment in remote communities
Kuensel Phodrang school
At Kuensel Phodrang Primary School in Thimphu, the Druk Nyo Foundation addressed poor ventilation in three temporary classrooms by installing six ceiling fans and eight window frames. These upgrades were crucial during the hot summer months when students and teachers struggled with uncomfortable learning conditions. The initiative was undertaken in response to the school’s immediate needs and has since significantly improved the classroom environment. By ensuring better air circulation and a cooler atmosphere, the foundation has created a more conducive space for learning, enhancing both the comfort and focus of the students
Culture Projects
Sumtrhang Revival Project
The project, "Revival of Sumthrang Samdrup Choedzong’s spiritual and cultural traditions and realization of a gender-based vocational training to improve local education and working skills among young generations," in partnership with ASIA funded by Tides Foundation, successfully aimed to preserve Bhutan’s cultural heritage while enhancing educational opportunities for the local community. Through the construction of a traditional guesthouse, library, and classrooms, the project created vital infrastructure to support both spiritual and vocational trainings at the Sumtrhang Monastery. The initiative also focused on equipping the facilities with necessary furniture and materials, such as bookshelves, study tables, and beds, all crafted by local crafts workers to promote sustainable development and local craftsmanship
Mask Dance revival
The village’s mask dances, particularly dedicated to Vajrakila deities and the protector deity Dragtsen Dorji Dradul, had not been performed since 1994. However, in 2014, the late Choje and his eldest son, Samten Yeshi, along with monks from Kheng, had briefly revived some of these dances during the 2014 Kangöl. Fortunately, this rare performance was documented by the Lodhen Foundation’s cultural team, led by Samten Yeshi himself, recorded diligently by Yeshi, who also worked for Druk Nyo Foundation later for a year. These video recordings proved invaluable in reconstructing the original dance sequences. Under the leadership of Umzey Kinley, the dance steps were initially reconstructed from the memory of a few elderly community members. These recollections were later refined and validated through the 2014 video recordings to maintain their authenticity. Likewise, the recorded footage of the rituals provided crucial guidance in editing the liturgical texts, ensuring accuracy in the performance of the ceremonies.
Eco Cultural Trail
The Nyo Heritage ECO Cultural Trail Project, implemented by the Druk Nyo Foundation in partnership with ASIA and co-financed by the Autonomous Province of Bolzano between January 2024 and June 2025, revitalized a 70-kilometer heritage route that connects Choekoer, Tang, and Ura valleys. The initiative combined ecological preservation with cultural restoration by rehabilitating ancient pathways, restoring sacred monuments and stupas, and improving access through new rest points, signage, and visitor facilities. It also documented 108 rare plant species and 13 cultural sites, blending traditional knowledge with scientific methods to protect Bhutan’s unique biodiversity and living heritage. The project promoted sustainable tourism and created meaningful employment opportunities for local communities, with over 30 households trained in guiding, hospitality, and small business management. Beyond physical restoration, the project strengthened community participation and environmental awareness. Educational programs reached 600 students and 60 teachers, fostering stewardship of local culture and nature among younger generations. The production of a documentary video and a mobile application with geotagging now allows visitors to explore the trail interactively, showcasing the project’s forward-looking integration of technology and tradition.
Agriculture Projects
Mongar Agriculture Project
In August 2024, the Druk Nyo Foundation successfully completed an agricultural empowerment project in Monggar Gewog, benefiting farmers across five chiwogs. Implemented with ASIA, Italy and funded by the Autonomous Province of Bolzano, the initiative focused on promoting sustainable agriculture, food security, and economic resilience. Farmers received hands-on training in organic cultivation, mechanization, product conservation, marketing, and financial management. Exposure visits to Bhutan Agro Industries, the Agriculture Research and Development Center, and the National Post-Harvest Center further strengthened their understanding of market trends and post-harvest practices. The project also distributed vital resources such as power tillers, light equipment, manure, hybrid seeds, and cardamom saplings while empowering women farmers with new technical and entrepreneurial skills. Complementing these efforts, the Foundation conducted Financial Management and Accounting Training for five farmer groups to improve budgeting, record-keeping, and cash-flow management. The sessions, combining theory and practical exercises, equipped participants with essential tools to manage their farm enterprises effectively. Additionally, market and exchange visits to Lingmithang exposed farmers to value-added processing, innovative packaging, and sustainable crop cultivation methods. These collective initiatives have enhanced local livelihoods, promoted self-reliance, and built stronger rural economies reflecting the Foundation’s ongoing commitment to sustainable development, food security, and community empowerment across Bhutan.
Ura Agriculture Project
The Nyö Foundation, in collaboration with its international partner ASIA, Italy, and with funding support from PCDM and the Autonomous Province of Bolzano, has successfully implemented multiple initiatives aimed at empowering rural communities, enhancing sustainable agriculture, and improving healthcare services in Bhutan. These initiatives have significantly contributed to strengthening the livelihoods, food security, and economic resilience of the beneficiaries. As part of post-COVID-19 recovery efforts, the Nyö Foundation launched the project "Post-COVID Support to Communities of Ura Gewog" to enhance farm mechanization, promote sustainable agriculture, and improve health and hygiene practices. The project, implemented in partnership with ASIA, Italy, and funded by PCDM, was successfully concluded in June 2024 with the inauguration of a vegetable market shed in Shingnyer. Through this initiative, the Foundation provided: - 16 mini-tillers - 12 greenhouses - Comprehensive sets of agricultural tools Extensive capacity-building programs were conducted, equipping farmers with knowledge and skills in: - Greenhouse management - Organic farming techniques - Conservation of horticultural products and marketing Various vegetable seeds were also distributed to diversify crop production, creating new income-generating opportunities for farmers. These initiatives have empowered the farming community, fostering economic sustainability in Ura Gewog.
Ura BHU Equipment Support
Recognizing the need to strengthen healthcare infrastructure in rural areas, the Nyö Foundation procured and donated essential medical equipment to Ura Primary Health Center in 2023. Following consultations with local health officials, additional medical equipment was identified and officially handed over on February 24, 2024, coinciding with the Birth Anniversary of His Majesty the King. This initiative reflects the Foundation’s ongoing commitment to improving healthcare accessibility and ensuring that rural communities receive quality medical care. The donated equipment aims to enhance diagnostic capabilities, patient monitoring, and overall healthcare services provided at the center. By equipping the Ura Primary Health Center with these essential medical tools, the Foundation aims to improve diagnostic efficiency, enhance patient care, and support healthcare professionals in delivering better medical services to the community.
Conservation Projects
Tiger Conservation Project
The project Promoting Tiger & Nature Conservation in Bhutan: Leveraging Cultural Values & Practices to Enhance Community Stewardship seeks to foster harmony between conservation efforts and Bhutan’s rich cultural heritage. By utilizing traditional knowledge, religious texts, and community narratives, the initiative aims to enhance environmental stewardship and support Bhutan’s conservation efforts. The year 2024 witnessed significant project progress through research, documentation, interviews with local people, and audiovisual documentations. Preparatory steps for further advocacy and awareness campaigns were also undertaken. These initiatives ensure that Bhutan’s spiritual and cultural identity continues to flourish while engaging communities and the world in its preservation.
Musk Deer Project