Parents often request facilitators at Early Childhood Care and Development (ECCD) centres to focus on teaching their children English, usually overlooking the importance of learning Dzongkha. To promote Driglam Namzha and learning Dzongkha from an early age, the Bhutan Early Childhood Education Development Association is organising a five-day training programme for private ECCD teachers and proprietors. Over 55 participants from across the country are attending the training that began today.
Phub Zam is a private ECCD facilitator with 15 years of experience as a facilitator in the Play and Learn Centre in Thimphu.
She said that most children in the centres naturally show more inclination for learning English.
“Parents also feel proud when their children can speak English. Since children are admitted to ECCD centres until the age of five, I believe we must train them in Dzongkha and introduce them to the basics of Driglam Namzha at an early age.”
She added that Dzongkha and Driglam Namzha should be taught to ensure their sustainability and continuation to future generations.
Jamtsho, the founder of the Bhutan Early Childhood Education Development Association, said that the training would allow private proprietors and teachers to prioritise Dzongkha and Driglam Namzha in their curriculum.
“Most of the children are very young, and if private centres can train them effectively at an early age, it will benefit them greatly in the future. After completing the training, the proprietors and facilitators will return to their centres and pass on this knowledge to the children.”
The home ministry and the Athang Learning Institute are supporting the training. It is to instil an understanding of cultural values, language and traditions, which are central to a country’s unique way of life.
Sonam Yuden
Edited by Sonam Pem
