Sherab Lhamo
In its unwavering commitment to ensuring a secure and prosperous digital economy, the Government Technology (GovTech) Agency has undertaken comprehensive efforts to centralise and optimise Information and Communication Technology (ICT) systems and networks across government sectors, including dzongkhag.
This groundbreaking initiative aims to fortify the nation’s digital infrastructure while driving efficiency and effectiveness in public service.
With a dedicated workforce of 283 employees hailing from various ministries, agencies, and dzongkhags, GovTech Agency comprises 11 divisions, featuring approximately 162 senior ICT officers and above, with a deputy Chief ICT officer overseeing operations.
Demonstrating its commitment to capacity building, the agency has been actively recruiting and training new personnel in collaboration with the esteemed Royal Civil Service Commission (RCSC).
Since 2022, 63 employees have voluntarily resigned from their positions within GovTech, comprising 44 individuals from the Professional Management Category (PMC), who were meticulously selected through the Royal Civil Service Commission (RCSC), and 19 individuals from the Supervisor and Support Category (SSC) with diplomas and 12th-grade qualifications.
Among the resignations, four notable senior employees belonging to the PMC with P1-P2 grades have left, along with 12 senior supervisors from the SSC. The agency acknowledges the departure of these individuals while maintaining its steadfast focus on its core mission.
The GovTech Agency plays a vital role in supporting and collaborating with government agencies and dzongkhags. Its officials, who possess extensive expertise in various aspects of technology, work closely with the respective teams to streamline operations and provide valuable assistance and guidance.
One of GovTech’s primary areas of emphasis is maintaining a secure digital environment. To this end, the agency conducts comprehensive training sessions for government agents, with a keen focus on cybersecurity best practices. By equipping government personnel with the necessary skills and knowledge, GovTech endeavors to safeguard cyberspace, protect data privacy, and prevent breaches.
Moreover, the agency seeks to raise awareness about fundamental cyber hygiene practices, recognising that the majority of breaches occur due to the absence of such practices. GovTech firmly believes that ensuring a secure and effective digital transformation is a critical mandate for the government and its constituents.
Established on 21 December 2022, the GovTech Agency, previously known as the Department of Information Technology and Telecom (DITT) under the Ministry of Information and Communication, operates autonomously. Its primary objective is to cultivate a secure and prosperous digital economy while promoting an efficient and citizen-centric public service.
Despite warnings from the Department of Law and Order, an alarming number of scam cases have been reported. In light of this, GovTech officials strongly advise individuals to exercise caution when confronted with suspicious links from unknown sources. The agency emphasizes that no reputable individual or organisation offers free services, and it is essential to remain vigilant and avoid falling victim to scams that seem too good to be true.
For individuals seeking to report cyber incidents or obtain general information, GovTech encourages them to contact the Bhutan Computer Incident Response Team (BtCIRT) at +975-02-338606 or via email at info@btcirt.bt.
By promptly reporting incidents, individuals can avail themselves of the technical support offered by GovTech to address cyber incidents and scams effectively, both in digital and offline realms.
In a rapidly evolving digital landscape, GovTech remains at the forefront of technological advancements, dedicated to ensuring Bhutan’s digital infrastructure remains robust, secure, and conducive to economic prosperity.