Awareness and Advocacy
The Foundation set up the first-ever Community Radio in the country in Dechen-Pelri village, Sarpang while the second radio station was set up in Dorokha, Samtse. The stations were set up with assistance from the Ministry of Information and Communication (MoIC), funded by the Swiss Development Corporation (SDC), and technical guidance received from NOMAD, India. The selected community members received training supported by the Department of Information and Media, MoIC in collaboration with UNESCO on developing programmes for community radio, basic technical knowledge (assembling and maintenance), using the proper software, editing programmes and basic code of conduct and ethics for the station. The community members own and operate the station which will be used for entertainment purposes as well as for raising awareness among the community with information and news announcements.
Tarayana has created awareness of women’s rights in the areas of equal health, education and livelihood opportunities. The Foundation has taken active initiatives in the preparation of the Convention on the Elimination of all Forms of Discrimination against Women (CEDAW) 2009 and 2016 and 2023 country-level alternate reports in consultation with relevant CSOs. In collaboration with IWRAW (International Women’s Rights Action Watch) Asia Pacific and the National Commission for Women and Children (NCWC), the Foundation has brought together all local CSOs to create awareness of women’s rights issues.
Tarayana spearheaded the Alternative Report for Bhutan 2018 for the Committee on the Universal Periodic Review (third cycle) 33rd Session.
Tarayana currently serves as the chair for the Business, Enterprise and Employment Support (BEES) for women in South Asia network.
Member of South Asia Rainwater Network (SARNET)
Member of South Asian Women’s Network (SWAN)
Member of The South and Southwest Asia Network on the Sustainable Development Goals (SANS)
Member of Asian Development Alliance (ADA)
In total, Tarayana Foundation has rendered its services in close to 600 villages across Bhutan. These achievements underscore the foundation’s dedication to fostering sustainable development, improving living standards, and empowering communities throughout the country.