Brief History
The National Institute for Zorig Chusum (NIZC) is Bhutan’s premier institute dedicated to the preservation and promotion of traditional arts and crafts. It was established in 1971 by HRH Princess Dechen Wangmo Wangchuck on the command of His Majesty the Third Druk Gyalpo, King Jigme Dorji Wangchuck.
Initially started as a painting school with just 30 students and two instructors under the Ministry of Development, the institute has since evolved through several administrative transitions from the Ministry of Finance to the Ministry of Cultural Affairs, and later under the National Training Authority. In 2003, it came under the Ministry of Labour and Human Resources (MoLHR), and currently functions under the Department of Workforce Planning and Skills Development (DWPSD), in line with the Civil Service Reform initiative 2022. Accreditation and certification continue to be overseen by the TVET Quality Council under the Bhutan Qualifications and Professionals Certification Authority (BQPCA). The institute offers National Certificate Level II and III programs in key traditional crafts such as Painting (Lhadri), Carving (Parzo), Sculpture (Jinzo), Gold and Silver Smith (Troezo), and Embroidery and Tailoring (Tshemzo), Weaving (Thagzo) along with a National Diploma in Painting. Plans are underway to introduce Applied Degree programs in the future. Additionally, contemporary and market-driven courses are offered to meet emerging demands.
In response to globalization, NIZC now offers customized training programs for international students, with the inaugural Bhutan Summer Skill Program 2025 launching in July to foster cross-cultural learning. For over five decades, NIZC has stood as a cornerstone in preserving Bhutan’s cultural identity empowering youth through skilling, supporting employment, promoting cultural exports, and ensuring the transmission of Bhutanese craftsmanship to future generations. It remains a beacon of excellence in the field of traditional arts, committed to upholding Bhutan’s the timeless values.
