𝐆𝐲𝐚𝐥𝐬𝐮𝐧𝐠 𝐏𝐫𝐨𝐠𝐫𝐚𝐦 𝐏𝐚𝐯𝐞𝐬 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐂𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐭𝐫𝐲’𝐬 𝐏𝐚𝐭𝐡 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐍𝐞𝐱𝐭 𝐆𝐞𝐧𝐞𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧

…𝑽𝒐𝒊𝒄𝒆𝒔 𝒇𝒓𝒐𝒎 𝑳𝒆𝒂𝒅𝒆𝒓𝒔 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝑪𝒐𝒎𝒎𝒖𝒏𝒊𝒕𝒚 𝑹𝒆𝒇𝒍𝒆𝒄𝒕 𝒐𝒏 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝑷𝒓𝒐𝒈𝒓𝒂𝒎’𝒔 𝑷𝒓𝒐𝒎𝒊𝒔𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝑺𝒕𝒂𝒓𝒕

By Editorial Team

In a historic initiative aimed at reshaping Bhutan’s future, the Gyalsung Program is set to play a pivotal role in the personal and professional development of the nation’s youth. Launched under the visionary guidance of His Majesty The King, the program is designed to cultivate leadership skills, instill values of service and commitment, and prepare young Bhutanese to actively contribute to the country’s development. With the program now underway, community leaders, educators, and participants share their perspectives on its anticipated impact, while early achievements highlight the program’s promising start.

Around 2,000 Gyalsups have embarked on a transformative journey at the four Gyalsung Centers established across the country. These centers, which have become a crucible for leadership and skill development, are staffed by hundreds of experts across various disciplines.

Ngawang Phuntsho, Dean of Student Affairs at Paro College of Education, views the Gyalsung Program as a transformative opportunity for Bhutanese youth. He believes the program will significantly nurture the mindset of young people, fostering a holistic development that aligns with Bhutanese values. “The Gyalsung Program is a noble initiative that will cultivate a generation of leaders prepared for the workforce and committed to the Tsawa Sum,” Ngawang Phuntsho said. “By instilling values such as loyalty, dedication, responsibility, and hard work, the program is expected to produce citizens who exemplify exemplary Bhutanese values on the global stage.”

Ngawang Phuntsho highlights that participants will gain essential 21st-century skills, including leadership, self-confidence, resilience, and a strong sense of civic duty. These skills will not only enhance their personal growth but also prepare them for professional success. The program aims to shift participants’ perspectives from individualism to a more collective and national outlook, encouraging them to set goals that contribute to societal betterment rather than solely personal success.

Karma Tenzin, Mangmi of Khamdang Gewog in Trashiyangtse, echoes Phuntsho’s sentiments, emphasizing the program’s potential to empower youth and address pressing challenges such as unemployment and lack of opportunities. “The Gyalsung Program is a significant step toward empowering our youth by providing them with opportunities for leadership training and skill-building,” Karma Tenzin stated. “This initiative could lead to a more skilled, confident, and engaged generation, capable of contributing positively to Bhutan’s socio-economic development.”

Karma Tenzin also points out that the program’s focus on youth engagement and development will help address challenges faced by young Bhutanese. By providing practical experience in project management, teamwork, and communication, the Gyalsung Program equips participants with valuable skills that can improve their career prospects and employability across various sectors. Tenzin expresses gratitude for His Majesty’s vision in creating such a platform, which he believes will produce excellent leaders for the country.

Jigme Norbu, Principal of Gaytsa Primary School in Bumthang, applauds the program’s forward-thinking approach and its impact on the future prospects of Bhutanese youth. “The Gyalsung Program will significantly enhance the skills, discipline, and determination of our youth, preparing them to contribute meaningfully to our nation,” Jigme Norbu says. He highlights that the program’s structured approach will foster discipline, focus, and a strong sense of civic duty among participants. By encouraging children to set ambitious goals and pursue them with confidence, the program aligns personal aspirations with broader societal needs.

Jigme Norbu also emphasizes the program’s emphasis on community contribution and teamwork. “Through collaborative projects and leadership opportunities, the Gyalsung Program instills a sense of responsibility and teamwork,” he explains. “Children will learn that their individual achievements contribute to the greater good, fostering a sense of pride and responsibility towards their country.”

Pema Wangmo, a resident of Thimphu originally from Mongar Dzongkhag, is proud to support the Gyalsung Program and has sent her daughter, Tshering Lhamo, to participate in it. Pema Wangmo believes that the program will equip young Bhutanese with essential life skills and independence, reducing their reliance on others. “The Gyalsung Program is a significant opportunity for our children,” Wangmo states. “It will prepare them to face future challenges with resilience and help them avoid negative influences.”

Pema Wangmo is confident that the program will lead to a decrease in substance abuse and prevent young people from falling into unproductive behaviors. She sees it as a means to build a brighter future for both the individual participants and the nation. “The knowledge and skills gained from the Gyalsung Program will serve our children throughout their lives,” she adds. “It is a vital initiative that will guide them toward a positive and productive future.”

Gup Wangchuk Lepcha of Samtse Gewog also commends the Gyalsung Program for its role in shaping the minds of young people and fostering a sense of national pride. “The Gyalsung Program is a valuable supplement to the efforts of teachers, parents, and guardians,” Wangchuk Lepcha said. “It instills values of commitment and service, leading youth to view their roles as crucial in national building efforts.”

Wangchuk Lepcha emphasizes that involvement in project planning, execution, and evaluation provides participants with hands-on experience in project management, which is valuable for any career. “By participating in these activities, youth gain practical experience and a deeper understanding of their role in the country’s future,” he explains. “The program helps shift their mindset from individualism to a more collective and national perspective, preparing them to contribute effectively to their communities and society.”

Pem Tshewang, a 66-year-old retired civil servant, is brimming with pride and optimism as his son joins the inaugural batch of Gyalsung, Bhutan’s new national service program. Reflecting on his decision to forgo traditional higher education for his son, Pem Tshewang expressed his deep admiration for the program and his faith in its potential to shape a well-rounded individual.

“My son completed Class 12 in 2022, and after careful consideration, I decided not to send him for further studies immediately,” Pem Tshewang explained. “Instead, I chose to enroll him in the first batch of Gyalsung. I deeply admire and appreciate our Great King’s mission and vision behind this initiative.”

He added “I am very happy with this decision and hopeful that the Gyalsung project will help develop our children’s minds, strengthen them physically, and keep them active in all aspects of life.”

He emphasized that while education is crucial, it alone cannot equip children with all the skills necessary for a successful life. “Through this program, they will gain all-around training,” he said. “I am confident that after completing Gyalsung, my son will be physically, mentally, and emotionally fit to face any challenges and serve our country with dedication and patriotism.”

Pem Tshewang is optimistic about the broader impact of Gyalsung, believing it will build confidence and resilience among Bhutanese youth. “I also believe that all our children will emerge stronger and more confident,” he added. “This program is a remarkable opportunity for our youth to grow in every aspect.”

Following his son’s time in Gyalsung, Tshewang plans to send him to college, confident that the experiences and skills gained from the program will enhance his son’s academic and personal growth. “I am proud of this decision and excited about the future,” Tshewang concluded, expressing his hope that Gyalsung will continue to positively impact the lives of Bhutanese youth for years to come.

As the first cohort of Gyalsups graduates from the program, they will stand as symbols of a new era-ambassadors of progress and pride. Their achievements will be closely observed by their families and communities, who will be eager to see the transformation in their children.

The teams at the Gyalsung Centers carry an immense responsibility, as their decisions, actions, and successes will set the foundation for future cohorts. They are tasked with establishing trends, defining standards, and paving the way for the program’s continued success.

With strong support from community leaders, educators, and families, the program is set to transform Bhutanese youth into capable, confident, and responsible citizens, ready to embrace the challenges and opportunities of the future.