KINLEY KHANDU CHODEN | Thimphu
As Bhutan pushes toward a more digitally inclusive society, Athang Training Academy is scaling up its nationwide digital literacy programme, training thousands of citizens while navigating infrastructure gaps and changing public perceptions about technology.
Around 5,000 participants have been trained across the first two phases of the programme. With each phase, the training is refined based on feedback from participants and instructors to ensure it remains relevant and practical.
The programme, implemented in partnership with the GovTech Agency, aims to improve digital awareness and practical skills among Bhutanese across all 20 dzongkhags and 205 gewogs.
However, according to Athang’s founder and CEO, Karma Dhendup, the biggest challenge is not just access – but mindset.
Karma Dhendup said digital literacy goes beyond basic computer knowledge, cautioning against a common misconception that familiarity with smartphones and social media equates to competence.
“Many people think they are digitally literate because they can use social media, send emails, or work with Word and Excel,” he said.
“First is cybersecurity awareness, second is the efficient use of digital tools, and third is the ability to adapt to rapidly changing technologies,” Karma Dhendup said, outlining what he described as the core components of digital literacy.
He stated that continuous learning is essential in an era of rapid technological change, noting that digital technologies evolve far faster than most other sectors.
“Knowledge can quickly become outdated,” he said. “That is why programmes like this are important, not just to teach skills, but to help people remain relevant and adaptable.”
Beyond foundational skills, the training programme introduces participants to a broader understanding of how digital systems function in real-world settings.
From managing data securely to navigating online platforms responsibly, trainees are encouraged to develop habits that support both productivity and safety in digital environments.
A key component of the training focuses on the responsible use of artificial intelligence (AI), which is increasingly shaping workplaces and communication.
While AI tools have made information more accessible and tasks more efficient, he mentioned against over-reliance and uncritical use.
“People tend to accept AI-generated responses without question,” he said. “AI should be used as a support tool, not a decision-maker. It helps those who help themselves.”
Participants are trained to verify information, think critically, and apply their own judgment when using AI tools – skills that are becoming essential in an age where misinformation can spread quickly through digital platforms.
The programme also emphasizes practical applications across sectors such as tourism, construction, and small businesses. Participants are introduced to systems like enterprise resource planning (ERP), which can improve efficiency in managing operations, finances, and communication.
In the tourism sector, for instance, digital tools can assist in itinerary planning, booking management, and minimizing delays for international visitors.
Efficient digital coordination, Karma Dhendup noted, it can help improve visitor experience while reducing operational challenges for tour operators.
Athang’s training includes certification through the globally recognised Internet and Computing Core Certification (IC3) digital literacy test, conducted by Pearson, allowing participants to assess and validate their competencies.
According to Karma Dhendup, even individuals with prior experience in digital tools often discover gaps in their knowledge through the assessment, while beginners gain structured exposure to essential skills.
Although the programme does not directly provide employment, it is designed to enhance participants’ readiness for the job market by building confidence, efficiency, and self-reliance.
“We encourage people to think proactively – how to search for jobs, improve their skills, and contribute meaningfully at the workplace,” he said. “The goal is to empower individuals to take initiative.”
Participants say the programme has had a tangible impact on both their skills and confidence.
Kinley Zam Wangchuk, 23, said the training strengthened her digital skills and broadened her understanding of how technology can be used effectively in daily life.
“In today’s world, digital technology is very important for education, communication, and jobs,” she said, adding that the programme helped her become more confident in using different digital tools.
Thinley Jamtsho, 19, said the training improved his efficiency. “The trainers at Athang Institute were professional, knowledgeable, and made complex digital topics very easy to understand. The digital skills training has made my daily use of technology much more efficient, especially in how I organize files and use AI tools to simplify complex tasks.” he said.
However, he noted practical challenges such as inconvenient training schedules and limited transportation support, which can affect participation for some learners.
For Prakash Biswa, 25, the ability to independently create and share digital documents marked a significant milestone.
“It made me feel proud,” he said. “These skills will help me in finding better job opportunities in the future.” He encouraged other young people to take advantage of the programme, especially since it is offered free of cost.
Despite its progress, the initiative faces logistical challenges, particularly in rural areas where internet connectivity remains limited.
In some locations, unstable networks initially disrupted training sessions, highlighting the infrastructure gap that continues to affect digital inclusion.
To address this, Athang has deployed portable satellite internet systems, with trainers using Starlink devices to ensure uninterrupted sessions in remote locations.
This has allowed the programme to reach communities that would otherwise struggle to access consistent digital training.
Karma Dhendup also highlighted broader challenges, including attitudes toward digital learning.
He said many people underestimate the importance of structured training, assuming that casual use of technology is sufficient to build competency.
“There is still a mindset that knowing how to use a smartphone is enough,” he said. “But structured learning helps people understand technology in a deeper and more meaningful way.”
He also raised concerns about excessive social media use, stating that it can affect mental well-being by reducing focus, increasing anxiety, and limiting productive use of time.
The programme is designed to be inclusive, with deliberate efforts made to accommodate participants from all backgrounds, including people with disabilities.
Athang has adapted its training facilities to improve accessibility and has successfully conducted sessions for participants with diverse needs, reinforcing the principle that digital literacy should be available to everyone.
Athang plans to expand its reach across all 20 dzongkhags and 205 gewogs, while continuing to refine its training model based on feedback from participants and trainers.
The programme is also expected to evolve beyond basic digital literacy, with potential for more specialised and sector-focused training in the future.
According to Karma Dhendup, improving digital skills is not only about access to technology, but also about changing how people understand and use it.
