The first Bhutan National Youth Forum on Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) took place in Thimphu from January 27th to 28th, 2024, as a precursor to the upcoming Asia-Pacific Forum on Sustainable Development (AFFSD) 2024. The forum convened 39 dynamic youth participants representing diverse youth groups and the Y-PEER network across the nation.

Commencing the event, the first day included an introductory session providing an overview of the forum’s objectives. The Deputy Executive Director of ARROW, Sai Racherla, delivered opening remarks, focusing on the 11th APFSD theme. Subsequently, a comprehensive session delved into the review of SDGs 1, 2, 3, 5, 13, 16, and 17, contextualized within the Bhutanese landscape. A group activity ensued, allowing participants to identify challenges associated with the specified goals, propose innovative solutions, and collaboratively articulate a compelling call to action.

On the second day, each youth group and the Y-PEER network presented video summaries showcasing their 2023 activities and accomplishments. Ms. Sonam Choki, RBM Associate at UNDP, conducted a session on Result-Based Management (RBM) and Monitoring and Evaluation. Participants engaged in formulating their action plans for the year 2024, aligning them with SMART goals. The forum culminated in a closing ceremony, characterized by a modest conclusion and the presentation of certificates to the attendees.

This event served as a platform for Bhutanese youth to actively contribute to the national dialogue on sustainable development, fostering innovative ideas and collaborative initiatives towards achieving the SDGs.

We would like to convey our heartfelt gratitude to The Asian-Pacific Resource & Research Centre for Women (ARROW); YPEER Asia Pacific Center -Ypeer AP and Programmes and Youth Coordination Division, Department of Education Programmes for their immense support in the seamless conduct of this event.