The Valedictory Function of three certificate courses conducted under the Green Skill Development Programme (GSDP) was successfully organized today at the Sikkim Science Centre, Marchak. The courses—“Nature Conservator cum Ecotourism Guide” (NSQF Level 4), “Micro-Entrepreneur – NTFP (Plant Origin – Bamboo Crafts)” (NSQF Level 4), and “Apiculturist (Wild Bee) – NTFP” (NSQF Level 2)—were conducted between January and March 2025 by the EIACP Resource Partner on Ecotourism, Sikkim State Council of Science and Technology.

The event was graced by Shri Pintso Namgyal Lepcha, Hon’ble Minister, Science and Technology Department, Government of Sikkim as the Chief Guest. The Hon’ble Minister distributed certificates to trainees and felicitated resource persons from all three certificate courses.

Also present on the occasion were Shri D.G. Shrestha, Principal Director-cum-Secretary; Shri D.T. Bhutia, Principal Director, Science and Technology Department, Government of Sikkim and Shri Suman Thapa, Director, Sikkim State Council of Science and Technology. The dignitaries highlighted the importance of skill-based training in creating livelihood opportunities and fostering entrepreneurship among youth and local communities.

A major highlight of the event was the official launch of the Augmented Reality/Virtual Reality (AR/VR) facility at the Sikkim Science Centre by the Hon’ble Minister. This state-of-the-art technology aims to make scientific learning more engaging, immersive, and accessible to students and the general public. The launch marks a major leap in promoting digital innovation and interactive education in the state.

The event saw enthusiastic participation from students, teachers, Panchayat members, and officials and staff of the Science and Technology Department, creating a vibrant and inclusive atmosphere that reflected the community’s commitment to sustainable development and scientific advancement.

During his visit to the Science Centre, the Hon’ble Minister also toured the 3D Theatre, Planetarium, Biodiversity Park, Innovation Hub, and Students’ Corner, and expressed appreciation for the various facilities that contribute to scientific temper and curiosity among youth.

He lauded the efforts of the EIACP Resource Partner on Ecotourism for conducting these GSDP courses successfully. The Hon’ble Minister was particularly impressed with the bamboo crafts products created by trainees from Dzongu, a region he proudly represents as an elected MLA. He emphasized the potential of such skill development programmes in empowering rural communities and encouraged wider participation in future batches.
Course-wise Trainee Participation:

• Nature Conservator cum Ecotourism Guide: 30 trainees
• Bamboo Crafts (Micro-Entrepreneur – NTFP): 30 trainees
• Apiculturist (Wild Bee – NTFP): 20 trainees

The successful completion and culmination of these training courses underscore the Department’s commitment to sustainable development, community empowerment, and ecological preservation through skill-based education. This initiative is in line with the vision of the Government of Sikkim to build a “Sunaulo, Samriddha Ani Samarth Sikkim”—a Golden, Prosperous, and Capable Sikkimthrough ecological integrity, inclusive growth and technological innovation.The integration of local participation, scientific knowledge, and technological tools marks a significant step towards realizing a vibrant, inclusive and sustainable Sikkim envisioned by the State Government.