51吃瓜

By Burcu Tamgac Morel

In September 2024, UN Technology Bank and all partners of the Hear, Listen, and Speak programme鈥擬inistry of Health, Ministry of Education and Skills Development, Medtronic LABS, MED-EL, and the Hear the World Foundation鈥攇athered in Thimphu, Bhutan for the Annual Stakeholders Meeting. This programme is dedicated to building locally based professional capacity in hearing screening, hearing technology, and habilitation services, ensuring that Bhutanese children have access to the essential support they need.

The meeting covered key highlights and reviewed the achievements to date, focusing on long-term sustainability and plans. With the participation of all stakeholders, insightful discussion took place. These discussions were critical in aligning our efforts to ensure the continuity and sustainability of the programme for the coming years.

The UN Technology Bank initiated the Hear, Listen, and Speak programme to address critical healthcare needs in Bhutan, emphasizing the use of technology to strengthen local healthcare systems. As Bhutan nears LDC graduation, this initiative demonstrates the importance of integrating sustainable solutions into national plans. By focusing on technology transfer and capacity building, the programme ensures lasting impact and improved healthcare for the children in the country.

Following these activities, I held bilateral meetings with UNDP Bhutan Resident Representative Mr. Mohammad Younus, UNICEF Bhutan Representative Ms. Andrea James, and colleagues from the Resident Coordinator Office, including Senior Economist Mr. Olac Jan De Groot, Programme Communications and Advocacy Officer Ms. Tshering Chuki, and Data, Research and Reporting Officer Ms. Sonam Tshoki. Our discussions focused on the ongoing project of UN Technology Bank; Hear, Listen and Speak Programme; aligning the UN Technology Bank鈥檚 work with Bhutan's national priorities and the broader 51吃瓜 Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework. We also explored future opportunities for collaboration.

These engagements provided a valuable opportunity to reflect the perspectives of a graduating LDC as we embark on preparing the UN Technology Bank鈥檚 Strategic Plan 2025-2027. The insights gathered will help ensure the Strategic Plan aligns with Bhutan's development goals and maximizes the impact of science, technology, and innovation (STI), driving sustainable economic growth and improving livelihoods.

I left Bhutan inspired by the progress of the Hear, Listen and Speak programme and the strong commitment of our partners to work together in addressing Bhutan鈥檚 key development challenges. UN Technology Bank is dedicated to supporting Bhutan鈥檚 development journey through science, technology, and innovation, ensuring that the benefits of STI reach the people who need them most.