The initiative forms part of the province’s 2025 national target program for socio-economic development in ethnic minority and mountainous areas.
Trainees are receiving instruction in Bahnar gong tuning, Jrai gong tuning, brocade weaving and Bahnar wood carving from four meritorious artisans: Nay Phai of Phu Tuc Commune, Dinh Thi Hrin and Dinh Ue of Kong Chro Commune, and Dinh Dung of To Tung Commune.
At the opening ceremony, Le Thi Thu Huong, Deputy Director of the Gia Lai Department of Culture, Sports and Tourism, said three rounds of conferment for “People’s Artisan” and “Meritorious Artisan” titles have been completed nationwide since 2014. In Gia Lai’s western region alone, 32 individuals have received the Meritorious Artisan title, eight of whom have since passed away.
To sustain and promote the work of artisans in preserving and transmitting cultural heritage, the department plans to hold six training classes in 2025, divided into two phases.
Huong said the program offers artisans an opportunity to exchange experiences and refine their skills, while encouraging trainees to continue practicing and eventually pass on the knowledge they learn.