The inaugural Knowledge Remittance Symposium will connect Bhutanese experts worldwide for national development in the lead-up to the 117th National Day

Staff Reporter

The Bhutan Chevening Alumni Network, in collaboration with Bhutanese changemakers, has announced the inaugural Knowledge Remittance Symposium, a fully virtual event connecting Bhutanese professionals, scholars, and leaders worldwide to accelerate national development.

This symposium is part of the larger Knowledge Remittance Initiative (KRI)—a groundbreaking effort that reimagines emigration as “e-migration”, where non-resident Bhutanese remain connected and contribute their expertise to support Bhutan’s evolving needs.

The KRI is a unique approach to nation-building, viewing knowledge itself as a vital asset in Bhutan’s progress. Unlike traditional remittances, the initiative encourages Bhutanese abroad to share their skills and insights, making knowledge exchange a driver for national growth.

The Knowledge Remittance Symposium provides an interactive platform where knowledge “remitters” – those sharing expertise—and knowledge “remittees”—those in Bhutan applying this knowledge —can connect, collaborate, and innovate.

The KRI Symposium will feature 12 abstract presentations and seven interactive panel discussions covering four key themes critical to Bhutan’s development: Innovation, Technology, and Entrepreneurship; Public Policies, Governance, and Socio-Economic Development; Sustainability, Urban Development, and the Sustainable Development Goals and Mindfulness, Well-being, and Cultural Preservation.

In addition, the symposium will showcase insights from resident Bhutanese experts, perspectives from Bhutanese Youth under 20 and contributions from Bhutanese artists around the World.

With speakers joining from Japan, Australia, the USA, the UK, and Europe, alongside experts residing in Bhutan, this event will provide a global perspective on Bhutan’s challenges and opportunities.

Each session is designed to foster discussion, inspire innovation, and deepen the connection between Bhutanese professionals abroad and the nation’s vision for a prosperous future.

This event’s online format will also allow a global audience to engage meaningfully, bridging distances and bringing Bhutanese expertise closer to Bhutan’s needs.