Why Choose Zorig?
-The Value of Traditional Skills in Today’s Job Market
In today’s rapidly evolving job market, traditional skills may often be overlooked in favor of modern professions. However, in Bhutan, the Zorig Chusum—the thirteen traditional arts and crafts—continue to offer meaningful, sustainable, and culturally rich career opportunities. At the National Institute for Zorig Chusum (NIZC), we have witnessed how trades such as woodcarving, painting, tailoring, embroidery, sculpting, and gold and silversmithing are not only preserving our heritage but also creating promising livelihoods for the youth.
Each traditional craft taught at NIZC is deeply rooted in Bhutanese culture and history. Whether it is the fine detailing of a Thangka painting, the careful carving of architectural motifs, or the precise stitching of traditional attire, these skills are revered and remain in constant demand across the country. From religious institutions to households, the need for well-crafted traditional items ensures continued employment for trained artisans.
Beyond preserving culture, Zorig also opens doors to self-reliance and entrepreneurship. Many graduates from our institute go on to start their own workshops, tailoring shops, or craft studios. By offering services such as temple restoration, custom tailoring, and the creation of handcrafted souvenirs, they tap into local markets and Bhutan’s growing tourism industry. These skills not only support individual livelihoods but also contribute significantly to the creative economy, which is increasingly recognized as a key sector in Bhutan’s development.
Moreover, engaging in traditional arts provides a career filled with purpose and pride. Artisans are not merely producing goods—they are upholding a spiritual and national identity. Their work graces monasteries, festivals, and sacred spaces, serving as a bridge between Bhutan’s rich past and its forward-looking future.
At NIZC, we offer courses in various Zorig disciplines at both NC2 and NC3 levels. Our training combines hands-on experience, mentorship by experienced masters, and a deep understanding of cultural values. Graduates are equipped not only with technical expertise but also with the confidence to pursue careers that are both fulfilling and future-oriented.
Choosing Zorig means choosing a career that honors tradition, fosters independence, and contributes to a vibrant cultural economy. It is a path where heritage and livelihood go hand in hand.
