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On February 6, 2025, the Royal Institute for Tourism and Hospitality (RITH) participated in a key consultation meeting with the Economic Affairs Committee (EAC) and the National Council of Bhutan as part of the ongoing review of Bhutan’s tourism sector. During the meeting, RITH’s role in promoting sustainable tourism practices, enhancing hospitality standards, and advancing tourism education was highlighted.

Following the meeting, RITH has been asked to provide a follow-up, focusing on:

1. Possible recommendations that the EAC could present to the government.
2. The major challenges currently faced by RITH.
3. The way forward and actions the government should take to support RITH’s future goals.
4. An overview of RITH’s application and intake data from the past five years.

This consultation represents an important step in strengthening Bhutan’s tourism sector, and RITH is committed to continuing its role in the country’s socio-economic development.

Thank You from RITH

We, the Royal Institute for Tourism and Hospitality (RITH), extend our sincere gratitude to the Economic Affairs Committee and the National Council of Bhutan for their valuable insights during this consultation. We deeply appreciate their recognition of RITH’s contributions to the growth of Bhutan’s tourism sector. We look forward to continuing our collaboration with both the committee and the National Council to shape a sustainable and prosperous future for Bhutan’s tourism and hospitality industry.

The Royal Institute for Tourism and Hospitality (RITH) was proud to support the Department of Tourism in its Frontline Managers Training program, which took place in Paro from 24th to 27th December 2024. As part of Bhutan’s Economic Stimulus Plan, this initiative aimed to enhance the skills and professionalism of officials working at Bhutan’s airports and landports.

The training, which targeted airport staff, Immigration, DRC, BFDA, Tourism, and other frontline personnel, focused on customer service excellence, cultural sensitivity, crisis management, and compliance with tourism regulations. The goal was to ensure that every visitor’s experience aligned with Bhutan’s cultural values while upholding world-class service standards.

Supported by national experts from RITH and the Ministry of Education and Skills Development, this program was part of a wider effort to strengthen frontline capacity across Bhutan. Additional training sessions were planned for officials at other airports and landports to further elevate Bhutan’s status as a premier tourist destination.

We expressed our gratitude to the Department of Air Transport and the Ministry of Infrastructure and Transport for their invaluable support in making this initiative a success.

The Royal Institute for Tourism and Hospitality (RITH) is pleased to announce the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Bangkok University and the Ministry of Education and Skills Development. This landmark agreement is a testament to our commitment to enhancing tourism and hospitality education and contributing to Bhutan’s socio-economic development.

As one of Thailand’s oldest and most respected institutions, Bangkok University brings a wealth of expertise to this partnership, which will serve to strengthen academic ties, promote cultural exchange, and establish collaborative programs that benefit both institutions.

The partnership aims to address youth unemployment and contribute to the development of a skilled workforce by implementing a Skills Development Program. Through this initiative, we will work together to enhance the quality of education and services within Bhutan’s growing tourism and hospitality industry.

Key components of this collaboration include:

1. Faculty Exchange: Bangkok University will send technical experts to RITH, providing invaluable support and knowledge transfer to our academic community.
2. Collaborative Seminars and Workshops: Joint events will create opportunities for knowledge exchange and the sharing of best practices.
3. Study Visits: Faculty and staff from both institutions will participate in study visits, deepening mutual understanding and learning from each other’s practices.
4. Scholarships: Scholarships will be offered to support faculty development and enhance the career prospects of students.

This partnership is a significant step forward in advancing Bhutan’s tourism and hospitality sector, enriching the educational experience, and fostering cultural understanding. We are excited for the opportunities this collaboration will bring for our students, faculty, and the broader industry.

The Royal Institute of Tourism & Hospitality (RITH) celebrated a momentous occasion today as Hon’ble Lyonpo Namgyal Dorji, Minister of Industry, Commerce and Employment, graced the 3rd Convocation Ceremony. The event marked the successful graduation of 261 students, who were awarded Diplomas in Tourism and Hotel Management. These programs are offered in affiliation with the prestigious University of Applied Sciences and Tourism Schools in Salzburg, Austria.

This convocation is a testament to the dedication and hard work of the graduates, who are now equipped with the skills and knowledge to excel in the dynamic fields of tourism and hospitality. Their achievements are not only a personal milestone but also a significant contribution to Bhutan’s growing tourism sector, which is in dire need of skilled professionals to meet the demands of a rapidly evolving industry.

The Hon’ble Lyonpo, in his address, emphasized the critical role these graduates will play in shaping the future of Bhutan’s tourism and hospitality landscape. “Your expertise, fresh perspectives, and commitment to excellence will be instrumental in driving innovation, sustainability, and resilience in our industry. You are the torchbearers of Bhutan’s vision to become a global leader in high-value, low-impact tourism,” he remarked.

The Minister of Industry, Commerce and Employment extends its heartfelt Tashi Delek to the graduates and reaffirms its unwavering support as they embark on their professional journeys. The Royal Institute of Tourism & Hospitality remains committed to nurturing talent and fostering excellence, ensuring that Bhutan’s tourism sector continues to thrive on the global stage.

This convocation is not just a celebration of academic achievement but also a reflection of RITH’s dedication to empowering the next generation of leaders in tourism and hospitality. As these graduates step into the world, they carry with them the values of service, sustainability, and cultural preservation that are at the heart of Bhutan’s identity.

Congratulations to the Class of 2009 till 2013 ! Your success is a beacon of hope and inspiration for the future of Bhutan’s tourism and hospitality industry.

RITH Celebrates Bhutan’s Tourism Industry’s Druk Thuksey Recognition On the auspicious occasion of Bhutan’s 117th National Day, His Majesty the King conferred the esteemed Druk Thuksey (Heart Son of Bhutan) Medal upon the tourism industry, honoring its pivotal role in the nation’s development over the past five decades.This prestigious accolade.

On the auspicious occasion of Bhutan’s 117th National Day, His Majesty the King conferred the esteemed Druk Thuksey (Heart Son of Bhutan) Medal upon the tourism industry, honoring its pivotal role in the nation’s development over the past five decades.

This prestigious accolade portrays the unwavering commitment of Bhutan’s tourism sector to the “High Value, Low Volume” policy, established in 1974. For 50 years, the industry has been a guardian of Bhutan’s cultural heritage and natural beauty while promoting sustainability and responsible tourism, a model that has garnered global acclaim.

The Royal Institute for Tourism and Hospitality (RITH) proudly stands as part of this exceptional industry, contributing to its growth by nurturing skilled professionals who embody Bhutan’s values of hospitality and service excellence. His Majesty’s profound acknowledgment of the sector’s impact, including making Bhutan a renowned destination worldwide, inspires us to continue our dedication to building a high-value tourism destination and reinforcing “Brand Bhutan.”

As we celebrate this monumental recognition, RITH reaffirms its commitment to training future leaders of the tourism industry and contributing to the prosperity and sustainability of Bhutan’s tourism legacy. Together, let us honor this achievement and work toward a brighter future for Bhutan’s tourism sector.

#RITH #TourismIndustry #DrukThuksey #BrandBhutan #Sustainability #HighValueLowVolume