The Tama High School in Zhemgang is finally set to open in the upcoming academic year, following a one-year delay. The school was a private institution that the government acquired in 2018 to convert into a government school. The reopening of the school has brought much joy to the locals in Tingtibi and Tama, who are eager to take advantage of the increased economic opportunities it will provide.
Local business owners in Tingtibi and Tama are thrilled about the reopening of the school, as it is expected to provide a significant boost to their businesses.
They believe that the closure of the school in 2012 had a negative impact on their economic prospects.
“I think if the school is opened sooner, it will be of immense benefit. Residents here go to stay in Tingtibi since the school has been closed and covered in bushes. Even the land is left fallow,” said Langkong, a resident of Tama.
“We are told that the school will be open, but it has been two years. If it is opened, it will be good for the people of Tama. We cleared our land of bushes and began growing vegetables. I think it would at least benefit us,” said Gem Lham, a hotelier.
“The people here can sell our agriculture and farm produce directly to the school. This way, the school will benefit the people here,” said Pema, a resident.
The erstwhile education ministry began renovating the school in 2021 after it was shut down in 2012. According to sources, renovation works were delayed due to a shortage of skilled labour during the Covid-19 pandemic.
The new school will have the capacity to accommodate around 250 students and will have hostel and playground facilities.
The District Education Sector has confirmed that they are awaiting final directives from the Ministry of Education and Skills Development before officially opening the school.
The government purchased the Tama High School for Nu 64 M, and an additional Nu 11 M was spent on refurbishing the school, including the construction of toilets and a drinking water supply
Zhemgang will have a total of five higher secondary schools, including the new Tama High School.
Pema Samdrup, Zhemgang
Edited by Sherub Dorji
