𝐄𝐃𝐈𝐓𝐎𝐑𝐈𝐀𝐋-𝐂𝐡𝐚𝐬𝐦 𝐢𝐧 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐞𝐝𝐮𝐜𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐚𝐥 𝐬𝐲𝐬𝐭𝐞𝐦 𝐭𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐬𝐭𝐢𝐟𝐥𝐞𝐬 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐩𝐨𝐭𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐢𝐚𝐥 𝐨𝐟 𝐲𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐠 𝐥𝐞𝐚𝐫𝐧𝐞𝐫𝐬

As Bhutan steers its path from a least developed nation to a developed one, a disconcerting reality lingers- the arduous journeys undertaken by students from remote villages in pursuit of education. The concept of development transcends mere economic progress; it embodies the realization of every child’s inherent right to easy access to education, irrespective of the geographical barriers they encounter.

In the quiet hamlets of Dhonphangma, Mongnangkhola, Gomchu, and Drewoong, nestled in the remote expanses of Khaling Gewog in Trashigang, a story unfolds that questions the very fabric of our developmental progress. Young minds, ablaze with the desire to learn, embark on treacherous journeys spanning up to seven kilometers, enduring hours of travel to reach Khaling Lower Secondary School (LSS).

This scenario casts a disquieting shadow over the Ministry of Education, shedding light on a deficiency in provisioning the necessary infrastructure to alleviate the hardships of these students. The dearth of accessible transportation or adequate boarding facilities underscores a fissure in the educational system, impeding the potential of these budding minds.

The dilemma transcends geographical distance; it encompasses tangible threats to these burgeoning learners. The specter of encountering wildlife and the looming specter of natural adversities such as floods and torrential rains introduce a layer of vulnerability that should never be part of any student’s educational journey. This situation, at its core, exposes a collective shortcoming as local authorities and the school administration have yet to satisfactorily address these challenges.

In a nation that places a premium on the well-being of its populace and envisions inclusive development, it is intolerable for any student to endure such hardships in the quest for education. Uncomplicated access to quality education ought to be the birthright of every child within the nation’s bounds, irrespective of their residence. The disparities in opportunities confronting these young minds raise pointed questions about the equity that should constitute the bedrock of our educational edifice.

Amidst the country’s pursuit of loftier standards and milestones, let us not lose sight of the heart of progress – ensuring that every citizen is empowered to thrive. The onus rests collectively on the Ministry of Education, local authorities, and society as a whole to grapple with this pressing issue.

The expedition towards a developed nation isn’t confined to material accomplishments; it signifies a journey towards inclusivity and parity. Education must stand as the compass steering us toward brighter futures, where no child is shrouded by the veil of disparity. The time has come to translate words into deeds – to bridge the divide and ensure that each child’s potential takes flight, unburdened by the weight of distance or adversity. We must guarantee that no child’s potential is shackled by circumstances beyond their control. It is incumbent upon us to invest in accessible transportation, secure hostel accommodations, and the necessary support systems that will enable these students to chase their dreams unhindered.

In the pursuit of equal education, we reaffirm our commitment to fostering a nation where every child’s aspirations are unimpeded by their origins and instead propelled by their thirst for knowledge. This isn’t merely education; it’s a testament to our shared dedication to shaping a more inclusive and luminous future for Bhutan. The time has come for action – to bridge divides and secure an environment where every child’s potential takes flight, liberated from the shackles of distance or hardship.