Bhutan’s Urban Youth Struggle to Find Jobs Despite Higher Education

Degrees in Hand, Jobs Still Out of Reach

Bhutan’s youth struggle to find work in a fast-changing urban economy

Thimphu

In Thimphu’s growing city streets, life looks busy and modern. Cafes are full, traffic is heavy, and new buildings rise every year. But behind this movement, many young people—especially young women—are facing a quiet crisis: they cannot find suitable jobs.

For many graduates, finishing college no longer means starting a career. Instead, it often leads to months or even years of job searching.

“I completed my degree more than a year ago,” says 24-year-old Sonam Yangzom. “I apply for many jobs, but employers say I don’t have enough experience. I don’t understand how I can get experience if no one gives me a chance.”

Her story reflects the reality of many young women in urban Bhutan. While education levels are rising, job opportunities are not growing at the same pace. Offices want skilled and experienced workers, but entry-level positions are limited.

Gender also plays a role. Some young women feel they are judged more harshly or offered fewer opportunities than men. Others are pushed toward low-paying or temporary work that does not match their education.

At the same time, Bhutan’s cities are changing fast. Traditional jobs are disappearing, and new sectors require technical or digital skills that many graduates have not been trained for. This gap between education and employment continues to widen.

Experts say the solution is not simple. Better coordination between universities, the private sector, and government is needed. Internship programs, skill-based training, and fair hiring practices could help young people enter the workforce.

Bhutan’s youth are educated, motivated, and hopeful. But without real job opportunities, that hope is slowly turning into frustration. If this issue is not addressed soon, the country risks losing a generation of talent—not because they lack ability, but because opportunity remains out of reach.