Ugyen Wangchuck Institute for Forestry Research and Training

07/09/2026

Nursery Techniques and Plantation Training underway in Gedu
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From September 7–16, 2026, the Ugyen Wangchuck Institute for Forestry Research and Training (UWIFoRT) is hosting an intensive ten-day training course on Nursery Techniques and Plantation in Gedu, Chukha. Inaugurated by the Chief Forestry Officer of the Divisional Forest Office, Gedu, and funded by the International Climate Initiative (IKI)-WWF Bhutan, the program is being delivered by resource persons from UWIFoRT and the Forest Resource Planning and Management Division (FRPMD) under the Department of Forests and Park Services (DoFPS). Attended by 25 field personnel (2 female and 23 men) from various divisional forest offices and protected areas, the training has two core objectives: to equip participants with both theoretical and practical skills in nursery and plantation management, and to familiarize them with the updated Nursery and Plantation Norms and Standards 2026, including monitoring and evaluation guidelines, thereby supporting consistent and improved restoration practices nationwide.

17/08/2026

The Ugyen Wangchuck Institute for Forestry Research and Training (UWIFoRT) is conducting a five-day Training on Forest Pest Management in Bhutan from 17–21 August 2026 at Meri Puensum, Punakha.

The training brings together forestry officials to strengthen their knowledge and practical skills in forest pest identification, detection, reporting, monitoring, prevention and control.

The training combines classroom and hands-on field sessions, covering forest entomology, insect classification, pest and disease collection and preservation, pest detection through signs and symptoms, and digital reporting using SMART, EpiCollect5 and KoboCollect. Participants are also gaining practical experience in bark beetle management, trap-log and pheromone-trap setup, insect identification, preservation and macro photography.
A special session on GALS – Giant African Land Snail, Adelgids & Aphids and emerging pests of concern is also included in the training, further broadening participants’ understanding of invasive and potentially damaging pest species.

The training is supported by the International Climate Initiative (IKI)-WWF Bhutan and delivered by resource persons from UWIFoRT and the DFO, Paro. The training is attended by 24 forestry officials (21 males and 3 females) from various field divisions and protected areas.

14/08/2026

In-House Annual Work Plan Meeting Held at UWIFoRT
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The Ugyen Wangchuck Institute for Forestry Research and Training (UWIFoRT) held its In-House Annual Work Plan Meeting today, bringing together officials from all Centres within the Institute, specialists and the Head of the Institute.

The meeting provided an opportunity to brief participants on the reporting and target-setting process, while reviewing and identifying key priorities for the ongoing Fiscal Year. Focal persons were also identified for the implementation and coordination of various projects and activities.

The meeting emphasized the importance of ensuring that all planned activities are aligned with the priorities and objectives of the 13th Five-Year Plan, while strengthening coordination and accountability across the Institute.

The meeting concluded with a shared commitment to translate the annual work plans into focused, coordinated and results-oriented actions.

10/08/2026

Refresher Training on IRF Code of Conduct and Investigation and Legal Documentation Underway at UWIFoRT
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A two-day refresher training on the IRF Code of Conduct (CoC) and Introduction to the Investigation and Legal Documentation Manual (ILDM) is currently underway at the Ugyen Wangchuck Institute for Forestry Research and Training (UWIFoRT).

The training brings together pre-service forestry trainees to strengthen their knowledge and practical skills in conservation law enforcement, wildlife legislation, the Ranger Code of Conduct, patrol planning, anti-poaching operations, crime scene management, and legal documentation.

The training aims to equip pre-service foresters with the knowledge and practical skills necessary to effectively and lawfully discharge their wildlife law enforcement responsibilities in accordance with the Ranger Code of Conduct upon joining the forestry service.

The training is being conducted with funding support from WWF Bhutan, with resource persons from WWF Bhutan and UWIFoRT facilitating the sessions. The sessions include practical exercises and mock cases covering wildlife identification, ranger patrols and anti-poaching operations, crime scene management, case management, search and seizure, evidence collection and chain of custody, and appropriate interview and interrogation procedures. The training, which started today, will end on 11th of August, 2026.

03/08/2026

UWIFoRT Celebrates World Ranger Day 2026 with Theme “Guardians of a Changing Planet”
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The Ugyen Wangchuck Institute for Forestry Research and Training (UWIFoRT) commemorated 20 years of World Ranger Day 2026 at Madanjeet Hall, bringing together staff and trainees to honour the dedication and sacrifice of rangers worldwide.

The celebration commenced with the offering of butter lamps, followed by Zhabten prayers for His Majesty the 5th Druk Gyalpo. The program featured a keynote presentation on the significance of World Ranger Day, reflecting this year’s global theme, “Rangers: Guardians of a Changing Planet,” which highlights the evolving and increasingly complex role of rangers in protecting biodiversity and responding to environmental challenges. One of the slides spoke volumes:

“People may never know your name. But they will benefit from the forests you protect, the wildlife you conserve, the rivers you safeguard, and the future you help secure”

A key highlight of the event was the official launch of the UWIFoRT YouTube channel, alongside the screening of a documentary on Bhutanitis ludlowii, Bhutan’s national butterfly. The documentary showcased the institute's commitment to conservation and research on this endangered species.

The celebration continued with vibrant cultural performances presented by both trainees and staff, fostering a spirit of unity and shared purpose. The day concluded with a joint lunch program for all attendees.

World Ranger Day is observed annually on July 31 to recognize the vital contributions of rangers and remember those who have lost their lives or been injured in the line of duty. UWIFoRT’s celebration underscored its dedication to conservation, education, and the training of Bhutan’s future forestry leaders.

31/07/2026

🎉 Our institute’s official YouTube channel is now live! 🎉

On this World Ranger Day, we’re proud to launch our channel with a special tribute video honoring the dedication, courage, and commitment of rangers everywhere. 🌿💚

Please take a moment to watch, subscribe, like, and share our channel through the QR code here. Your support will help us reach more people and spread awareness about forestry, conservation, and the incredible work of our rangers.

Thank you for being part of this journey! 🙏

16/07/2026

UWIFoRT Celebrates Promotion of Three Officials ****************************************************
The Ugyen Wangchuck Institute for Forestry Research and Training (UWIFoRT) held a promotion ceremony on 15th July, 2026, to honour three officials of the Institute on their recent promotion.
Led by the Head of the Institute along with senior specialists, UWIFoRT officials gathered at the Hall of Commons to mark the occasion. The ceremony began with a cake-cutting session, followed by the conferring of ceremonial scarves to each of the promoted officials by the Senior Specialist, symbolizing recognition of their dedication and contribution to the Institute.
In his remarks, the Head of UWIFoRT congratulated the three officials on their well-deserved promotion, commending their hard work and commitment, and encouraged them to continue contributing to the Institute's mission in forestry research and training.
The ceremony reflected the collegial spirit of UWIFoRT and reaffirmed the Institute's commitment to recognizing and celebrating the achievements of its staff.

02/07/2026

UWIFoRT Welcomes and Orients the 17th Batch of NCIII Forestry Trainees
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Following the successful graduation of the 16th Batch, the Ugyen Wangchuck Institute for Forestry Research and Training (UWIFoRT) is pleased to welcome 40 new trainees:14 female and 26 males, for the National Certificate III (NCIII) Forestry Course. This intensive one-year program will run until 30th June 2027.

To mark the commencement of their academic journey, the institute conducted a comprehensive orientation program. The new cohort was officially welcomed by the Officiating Head Specialist and faculty members, followed by detailed briefings on the course curriculum, institute mandates, and campus rules and regulations. The program concluded with introduction to staff, an interactive campus familiarization tour and the election of student office bearers, ensuring the trainees are well-prepared to integrate into life at Lamai Goempa.

This new cohort joins the institute at a critical juncture. The Department of Forests and Park Services currently faces a vital manpower shortage in the field. Upon completing their training, these individuals are expected to bring much-needed dynamic energy and professional support across 14 Divisional Forest Offices, as well as 10 National Parks, Wildlife Sanctuaries, and Strict Nature Reserves.

29/06/2026

16th Batch Graduates: Step Forward as Guardians of Our Forests!
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A momentous day at the Ugyen Wangchuck Institute for Forestry Research and Training (UWIFoRT)! Today, we proudly celebrate the graduation of our 16th Batch of Foresters!
After a rigorous, year-long journey of intensive field training, academic coursework, and thorough assessments, 40 dedicated trainees (30 males and 10 females) have successfully earned their National Certificate Level III (NC-III), officially certified by Bhutan Qualifications and Professionals Certificate Authority (BQPCA).
We are deeply honored and grateful that the graduation ceremony was graced by the esteemed Dasho Dzongda of Bumthang Dzongkhag Administration as our Chief Guest, alongside the regional heads of Bumthang. The significance of the event was further elevated by the esteemed presence of the Chief Forestry Officers (CFOs) from Wangchuck Centennial National Park, Phrumsengla National Park, and Officiating CFO from the Bumthang Divisional Forest Office. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to all our distinguished guests for their valuable presence, inspiring encouragement, and enduring support for our institute and the future of forestry in Bhutan.
These bright, skilled professionals are now ready to take on the noble responsibility of conserving Bhutan's rich natural heritage. As their next step, the graduates will head to the Department of Forests and Park Services (DoFPS) to undergo their formal Viva Voce assessment.
Please join us in sending our warmest congratulations and best wishes to the 16th Batch as they prepare for their viva and embark on their vital careers in conservation!

22/06/2026