After a five-year hiatus, the Winter Camp for Highlanders has returned, bringing nearly 40 students from Lingzhi Middle Secondary School together for an unforgettable learning experience. Organised by JICA, the five-day programme that began today will explore ICT, science, health, nutrition, and more through interactive and hands-on activities designed to encourage growth and creativity.
15-year-old, Nima Yuden from Lingzhi has travelled to Thimphu for the first time to attend the winter camp.
She is excited to spend the next five days learning new things and gaining valuable exposure through it.
“It is my first time here. I am enjoying the experience. I have learned many new things today and I am looking forward to learning more things through this programme.”
A parent who walked two days from Lingzhi Gewog in Thimphu to reach the capital shared that the camp is a valuable opportunity for their children to gain exposure and learn new skills.
“It is a great opportunity for us and it benefits the students. While the ministry has been supporting us, this programme will further benefit our children,” said Karma Dorji, a parent.
According to JICA volunteers, it will help students to express themselves freely and build life skills.
“This winter camp started with the hope that students will learn a variety of things. We have prepared various classes for them. This winter camp’s theme is learning together and creating together. It reflects our hope that everyone will express their idea and opinions freely without hesitation,” said Kae Takaesu, a JICA volunteer.
“I am happy to be here with my friends and family. I also got a chance to meet with people from Japan and learn drawing from them,” said Ngawang Tenzin Thinley, a student of Lingzhi Middle Secondary School.
The winter camp for highlanders is not just an educational programme but a platform for students like Nima and Ngawang to gain exposure beyond their isolated communities.
As the camp resumes after five years, it brings hope and inspiration to both the students and their parents.
Sonam Yuden
Edited by Sonam Pem
