EDITORIAL-Embrace Gyalsung, Country’s Call for a Resilient Tomorrow

𝑨𝒏𝒔𝒘𝒆𝒓 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝑵𝒐𝒃𝒍𝒆 𝑺𝒖𝒎𝒎𝒐𝒏𝒔: 𝑱𝒐𝒊𝒏 𝑮𝒚𝒂𝒍𝒔𝒖𝒏𝒈 𝑻𝒐𝒅𝒂𝒚 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝑭𝒐𝒓𝒈𝒆 𝒂 𝑺𝒕𝒓𝒐𝒏𝒈𝒆𝒓, 𝑴𝒐𝒓𝒆 𝑼𝒏𝒊𝒕𝒆𝒅 𝑩𝒉𝒖𝒕𝒂𝒏𝒆𝒔𝒆 𝑻𝒐𝒎𝒐𝒓𝒓𝒐𝒘

In a momentous stride towards fostering a united and resilient generation, Bhutan is gearing up for the initiation of the Gyalsung Program in September 2024. Gyalsung, meaning “service to the nation,” encapsulates a noble intention envisioned by His Majesty The King during the Royal Address on the 112th National Day in 2019. The program aims to harness the untapped potential of Bhutanese youth, guiding them to contribute meaningfully to the Tsawa-Sum-the King, Country, and People.

The response to Gyalsung has been promising, with over 11,000 enthusiastic individuals born in 2005 already registering for the program. However, as the registration deadline of February 15, 2024, approaches, a significant number is yet to complete the process. It is imperative for every eligible Bhutanese to enroll with pride, recognizing the Gyalsung initiative not as an obligation but as an opportunity for personal development and national service.

The Gyalsung Program, embedded in the Constitution’s Article 8.1 and fortified by the Gyalsung Act of the Kingdom of Bhutan 2022, places the onus on every citizen to engage in the National Service. Failure to register for Gyalsung Training, as mandated by the Act, incurs penalties. However, it is noteworthy that the approach is gentle, with the objective not to penalize but to guide and assist. The Gyalsung office, backed by a team of Dessups, is actively reaching out to eligible individuals through various channels, including social media, local government collaborations, and a dedicated call center.

The registration process for Gyalsung is a twofold journey commencing at the age of 15. The first step, Sign Up, opens the doors for all eligible Bhutanese citizens, whether in school or out-of-school, to embark on the Gyalsung journey. The second step, Registration, becomes relevant at the age of 18 or upon completing class 12 for those still in school. It involves submitting family details, selecting skilling preferences, and other essential actions to pave the way for a holistic and productive Gyalsung experience.

His Majesty’s vision for Gyalsung extends beyond the mere fulfillment of a constitutional duty. It is a call for Bhutanese youth to actively participate in nation-building, enhancing the pillars of security, peace, unity, harmony, and sovereignty. By enabling each youth to actualize their innate potential, Gyalsung aspires to mold them into productive and worthy citizens dedicated to the service of the Tsawa-Sum.

As we witness the first batch of Gyalsung participants set to commence their training in September, it marks a significant milestone in Bhutan’s journey towards building a future generation deeply rooted in the values and aspirations of the nation. The program’s success lies not only in the numbers but in the holistic development of each participant, fostering a sense of responsibility, patriotism, and personal growth.

Gyalsung beckons every eligible Bhutanese to seize this unique opportunity for personal development and national service. It is not just an obligation but a chance to contribute meaningfully to the well-being of the King, Country, and People. As the registration deadline approaches, let us unite in support of Gyalsung, ensuring that the program becomes a beacon guiding Bhutanese youth towards a brighter and more prosperous future.