Overview
Established in the heart of the Annapurna Trekking circuit, Dhawalagiri Technical School (DTS), a constituent institution of the Council for Technical Education and Vocational Training (CTEVT), is more than just a learning center. Located in Thasang Rural Municipality, Mustang, and established in 1994 AD, the school is a blend of education and breathtaking beauty, offering a unique learning experience with a panoramic view of mountains like Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Nilgiri, and Tukche peak.
Broadening Horizons with Comprehensive Programs
Over the years, the DTS has diversified its portfolio, adapting to the needs of the community, the tourism industry, and the country at large. The school started with short-term training programs for the local hoteliers of Annapurna trek. By 2053, in an attempt to upgrade the hotel services and facilities of the Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP), DTS introduced one-year programs in Lodge/Hotel Management and Lodge/Hotel Cooking/Baking.
Expanding its curriculum further, DTS introduced a 15-month Pre-Diploma program in Livestock Production/Management in 2056. Currently, it offers four long-term courses, each of an 18-month duration. The courses are:
- Pre-Diploma in Hotel Management
- Pre-Diploma in Culinary Arts
- Pre-Diploma in Livestock Production / Animal Health
Addressing Community Needs with Short-Term Vocational Training
In alignment with community demand, DTS also provides vocational training ranging from one week to three months. These mobile basis short-term courses cover various sectors including Tourism, Veterinary, Agriculture, Construction, and Health.
Exceptional Infrastructure in a Rural Setting
Despite its rural setting, DTS offers remarkable facilities. It provides hostel facilities for 135 trainees (40 female and 95 male), with the Pine Forest Lodge and Restaurant on campus, equipped with 16 comfortable rooms, 24-hour hot and cold-water supply, and free Wi-Fi service.
This setup allows tourism students to gain hands-on experience during their training period. The school infrastructure also includes well-equipped Cooking, Restaurant, Veterinary, and Agriculture labs, spacious classrooms, a well-stocked library with an e-library, and a well-furnished seminar hall with a capacity for 100 attendees.
Building a Better Future
Since its inception, DTS has produced more than 1227 competent graduates from its long-term programs and trained 3500 individuals through short-term training, according to school data records. Remarkably, about 80% of these graduates are gainfully employed, with many starting their own businesses, serving in domestic governmental and private organizations, or working in foreign countries. The Dhawalagiri Technical School stands as a beacon of hope and opportunity, nurturing skills and fueling dreams in the majestic backdrop of the Himalayas.
Objectives:
Dhawalagiri Technical School (DTS) is committed to facilitating the development of skilled and semi-skilled human resources in key sectors. As an essential contributor to the educational landscape of Nepal, DTS is guided by four significant goals.
- Meeting Industry Demands with Skilled Personnel: DTS aims to cater to the growing need for proficient personnel in the fields of tourism, Livestock Production/Animal Health, and Plant Science. By offering comprehensive programs and high-quality education, the school prepares its students to become competent contributors to these crucial sectors, driving growth and sustainability.
- Delivering Time-Bound and Effective Training: At the heart of DTS's mission is the successful and effective delivery of training within a fixed timeframe. The school's academic structure and rigorous curriculum are designed to ensure students gain maximum knowledge and practical skills within the given course duration, thereby enhancing their productivity and readiness for the job market.
- Empowering Communities through Mobile Training: Recognizing the diverse needs of the community, DTS is dedicated to offering mobile-based training programs tailored to local demand. These programs, covering sectors like Tourism, Veterinary, Agriculture, Construction, and Health, not only impart essential skills but also contribute to community development and local economic growth.
- Fostering Continuous Learning with Refresher Training: Believing in the philosophy of lifelong learning, DTS provides refresher training to its graduates who are already employed. These training programs allow alumni to keep abreast of the latest trends, technologies, and best practices in their respective fields, thus promoting their career advancement and contributing to their respective industries' progression.
Through these ambitious goals, DTS continues to shape the future of its students and contribute to the socio-economic fabric of the region, living up to its vision of nurturing skills and creating opportunities amidst the magnificent Himalayan panorama.
Facilities:
Dhawalagiri Technical School (DTS) offers not just high-quality education and training, but also a range of comprehensive facilities that enhance the overall learning and living experience of the students.
- Comfortable and Separate Hostel Accommodations: Understanding the importance of a conducive living environment, DTS provides separate hostels for girls and boys. These hostels are managed by designated "father" and "mother" figures, ensuring a harmonious environment and addressing any concerns the trainees may have.
- Affordable and Healthy Dining Options: Students at DTS enjoy access to a cost-effective canteen, which provides a variety of wholesome and nutritious meals. An ample dining hall also ensures that meal times are comfortable and enjoyable for everyone.
- Practical Learning at an On-site Hotel: Unique to DTS, an on-site hotel facility, offers students practical experience, bringing classroom learning to life. This invaluable hands-on experience prepares students for their future careers in the hospitality industry.
- Enriching Sports and Recreational Activities: Complementing its academic offerings, DTS provides a range of sports and recreational activities. These activities ensure a balanced lifestyle, promoting physical health and teamwork skills amongst students.
- Dedicated Staff Quarters: For a smooth functioning of the school, DTS provides dedicated staff quarters. These facilities help in maintaining a high level of engagement and interaction between the faculty and students.
- Expansive Land for Agricultural Practice: With 12 Ropani (approximately 1.5 acres) of well-managed land dedicated to agricultural practices, DTS offers a unique opportunity for students to learn and apply concepts of agriculture in a real-world setting.
- Well-Equipped Livestock Farm: The school also houses a well-equipped livestock farm for veterinary trainees. This setup allows students to gain practical exposure, enhancing their learning experience and preparing them for their careers in the livestock and animal health industry.
With these facilities, DTS strives to provide a well-rounded, practical, and engaging learning environment that goes beyond the traditional classroom setting, facilitating the holistic development of each student.
Academic Programs Offers:
At Dhawalagiri Technical School (DTS), students have a variety of study programs to choose from, each catering to a unique set of interests and career aspirations. Here are the available programs and the number of seats for each:
Pre-Diploma In Hotel Management – 30 Seats
- In addition to the Diploma course, DTS also offers a Pre-Diploma in Hotel Management. This course, with 30 seats, serves as a foundation for students planning to advance their studies in the field of hotel management.
Pre-Diploma in Culinary Arts – 30 Seats
- For aspiring chefs and food connoisseurs, the Pre-Diploma in Culinary Arts is the perfect fit. This course, offering 30 seats, provides students with the knowledge and hands-on experience needed to thrive in the culinary world.
Pre-Diploma in Livestock Production/Animal Health – 40 Seats
- For students keen on careers in animal health and livestock production, the Pre-Diploma in Livestock Production/Animal Health is an ideal choice. The course, with 40 available seats, offers comprehensive training for a rewarding career in the livestock sector.
At DTS, each program is designed to provide students with the knowledge, skills, and confidence they need to excel in their chosen fields.