To keep young people away from drugs, alcohol, and other undesirable habits during their vacation, the Central Monastic Body conducted a month-long orientation and training programme on Buddhism and culture. Conducted in collaboration with the DeSuung Nangchoe Programme, the closing ceremony in the capital, yesterday, saw over 900 participants aged between four and 20.
The programme conducted annually since 2016 focuses on grooming youth with positive behaviour.
Participants are engaged in different activities such as prayers, meditation, yoga, and etiquette among others.
“It is very important for the youth to know and learn about the traditional culture of the country. Therefore, through this programme, we taught these children all the etiquettes including the way they should talk, think and behave, and also about our religion,” said Sangay Dorji, Laytshog Lopen.
Delighted, the parents of the participating students say the programme has brought about a marked change in the behaviour of the students.
Students themselves say the programme has helped them a lot.
“Usually during vacations, our children spend their time either on their mobile phones or roaming in the town with their friends. There are chances of being involved in bad activities. However, this programme has helped them do productive things during the vacation and I can also see big differences in my children’s behaviour,” said Thinley, a parent.
“Ever since my son joined this programme, his behaviour has changed drastically. In the past, he used to roam around and come home late, but now he is very punctual. He also developed a habit of talking to me with respect,” said Yeshi Selden, another parent.
“The Nangchoe programme helped me in many ways. I learned how to recite prayers properly, improved my ability in Dzongkha subject and I did not waste my time during the vacation,” said Nima Youdsel Dolma, a participant.
“I learned that we should avoid drugs and alcohol, should not involve in fights, never attempt suicide, to respect our parents and to study well to serve the nation. If not for this programme, we would not have known about these things therefore, I would like to thank the lopen for conducting such a programme,” said Chimi Khachu Wangchuk, another participant.
According to officials, the number of students participating in the programme is increasing, every year.
Similar Nangchoe programmes were conducted in all the other districts.
Namgay Dema
Edited by Sherub Dorji
