Message from the Head of Department

Welcome to the Department of Sustainable Development at the College of Natural Resources, Royal University of Bhutan. Our BSc in Sustainable Development programme prepares graduates to understand and respond to the complex social, economic, and environmental challenges of our time while contributing to Bhutan’s development philosophy of Gross National Happiness. Through an interdisciplinary blend of sustainable development, environmental studies, economics, sociology, climate change, sustainable agriculture, natural resource management, public health, entrepreneurship, research, public policy and project management, we provide students with both academic knowledge and practical skills to address real-world development challenges. The programme emphasises experiential learning through field-based activities, internships, research projects and community engagement, while nurturing critical thinking, leadership, communication, creativity, collaboration and problem-solving abilities. As a department, we are committed to developing responsible, innovative and future-ready graduates who can contribute meaningfully to sustainable development in Bhutan and beyond. I warmly invite prospective students, partners and stakeholders to explore our programme and join us in building resilient communities, sustainable livelihoods and a more balanced and inclusive future.

Dr. Purna P. Chapagai

BSc. Sustainable Development Second-Year Students Participate in Block Day on Agri-business and Marketing in Thimphu

1 September 2026

On 1 September 2026, the second-year BSc. Sustainable Development students undertook an academic visit to Thimphu as part of their experiential learning for the module Agri-business and Marketing (ECN206).

The visit was organised as a block day, providing students with an opportunity to move beyond classroom-based learning and engage with real-world aspects of agribusiness, agricultural marketing, and value-chain development. The activity was facilitated by Adjunct Faculty Ms. Dil Maya Rai, who guided students through practical learning activities and discussions relevant to the module.

The block day provided students with valuable exposure to the dynamics of agricultural markets and the practical challenges and opportunities associated with connecting producers, markets, and consumers. Such experiential learning activities enable students to relate theoretical concepts to real-world situations while strengthening their understanding of agribusiness and marketing in the Bhutanese context.

The Department of Sustainable Development continues to emphasise experiential, practice-orientated, and context-based learning, equipping students with the knowledge and skills required to contribute meaningfully to sustainable economic and agricultural development in Bhutan.