In an effort to leverage technology for the preservation of Bhutan’s rich cultural heritage, the Department of Culture and Dzongkha Development (DCDD), in collaboration with Govtech, has organized a groundbreaking NFT Hackathon. This event, focused on tokenizing the 18th-century Zhabdrung Phuensum Tshogpa Thangka, aims to engage youth while safeguarding the country’s cultural legacy.
The three-day NFT Hackathon commenced yesterday at the DCDD conference hall in Thimphu, drawing participants eager to explore blockchain technology and create digital assets under the guidance of industry experts.
Tshering Uden Penjor, Chief Curator of the Textile Museum at DCDD, emphasized the significance of the hackathon in enhancing blockchain development skills while preserving Bhutan’s cultural identity. The choice of the Zhabdrung thangka reflects its symbolic importance to Bhutanese heritage, serving as a focal point for the digitization efforts.
Chanel Lee, a renowned NFT creator and trainer, provided participants with insights into the history and fundamentals of NFTs, alongside practical guidance on creating and managing digital artworks. Through this immersive experience, participants gained hands-on knowledge of NFT creation, cryptocurrency transactions, and online artwork uploading.
A total of 13 participants, selected through open registration, are tasked with creating 10 NFTs during the hackathon. The top three creations will be featured in the museum’s NFT collection, showcasing Bhutan’s cultural heritage to a global audience.
The collaboration between DCDD, Govtech, and industry leaders such as DHI, OpenSea, and Sandbox underscores Bhutan’s commitment to embracing digital innovation while preserving its cultural roots.
During the event, a panel discussion featuring representatives from DHI, Bhutan Post, and the Royal Monetary Authority (RMA) shed light on the potential of NFTs in cultural preservation and economic growth. Bhutan Post, for instance, shared its initiative to convert physical stamps into NFTs in collaboration with Stampsdaq, aiming to attract a new generation of collectors.
Looking ahead, Bhutan is poised to explore opportunities in digital currency, with the RMA actively considering pilot programs in this space. The hackathon serves as a catalyst for fostering innovation and collaboration in Bhutan’s digital ecosystem, paving the way for future endeavors in cultural preservation and technological advancement.
As the hackathon draws to a close, anticipation builds for the announcement of the winning NFT creations, marking a significant milestone in Bhutan’s journey towards leveraging technology for cultural heritage preservation.
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