To provide children from remote schools with a fun learning experience and exposure through football, the Bhutan Football Federation initiated the first-ever Bridge the Gap programme in the capital. Fifty-two students aged seven to eleven are participating in the programme. The five-day programme ended today.
From football coaching to playing tournaments, the Federation had arranged all kinds of programs to engage these participants. Students of Getana Primary School in Chhukha, Nimtola Primary School in Dagana, Lingzhi Lower Secondary School, Barishong Primary School, and Soe Extended Classroom in Thimphu participated in the programme.
“After coming here, I learnt how to play football and draw. I also got to make new friends,” said Yetsho Sonam Yangchen, a participant from Lingzhi Lower Secondary School.
“I learnt how to play football. I am more confident after meeting new friends here,” said Pema Yangchen Lhamo, another participant from Barishong Primary School.
“The students are getting a lot of exposure. They understand that there is a world beyond the mountains where they live. We don’t have different grounds for football or basketball where they can play. Unlike here, we only have deflated balls to play with. Reaching here and communicating with other students certainly will add to their experience,” said Choki Wangmo, a teacher from Barishong Primary School.
Through a program such as this, the Federation wants to utilise its role and change the lives of those living in remote areas through football.
“We want to instil in the children that football has a future. If you are dedicated and you concentrate on the skills, football has a future not just as a player, but as a coach, referee, technical director, physiotherapist, or management. There are so many fields where you can be involved in football,” said Ugen Tsechup, the President of the Bhutan Football Federation.
The Federation plans to make the program an annual event to further reach out to the nooks and corners of the country.
Chenga Dawa
Edited by Sonam Pem
