The celebration of International Snow Leopard Day at Choki Traditional Art School, now an annual event since the school’s 25th Anniversary in 2023, was observed on 23rd October for the second time this year. The event was graced by the head of the local community as the guest of honor, alongside officials from WWF-Bhutan, the Forest and Park Services, the principal and students of Kuzugchen Higher Secondary School, Druk Ralung Monastery principal, and other community representatives.
The day successfully highlighted the shared vulnerability of the snow leopard and Bhutan’s traditional arts and crafts, both of which face extinction without preservation efforts. An art competition centered on the snow leopard saw excellent participation, thanks to the guidance of renowned Bhutanese artist Mr. Tshedar Dorji, who generously taught contemporary art techniques to the students free of charge. Additionally, a skit focusing on the conservation of snow leopards and the preservation of traditional arts was performed, further emphasizing the day’s message.
The event proved to be a fruitful effort in raising awareness and promoting conservation.