The College of Language and Cultural Studies in Trongsa will remain open, dispelling recent rumours of its closure. The education minister informed the National Assembly that the education ministry and the Royal University of Bhutan or RUB have plans to repurpose the college. Bilingual education, and technology and innovative skill-based programmes will be introduced, aimed at preparing graduates for the job market.
The education minister said the college will begin admitting students under its new programmes from the autumn semester next year. RUB is planning to start five undergraduate programmes and three postgraduate programmes.
However, the college will enrol only 35 students in its initial intake. MPs raised concerns over the limited student intake.
Wamrong MP Lam Dorji said, “Only 35 students will be enrolled next year. That’s worrying, considering the size of the college, the existing infrastructure, and the investments made. I hope the minister can provide further clarification.”
Sergithang-Tsirang Toed MP Lhakpa Tshering Tamang added, “As only 35 students will be absorbed, it would be beneficial to increase the intake at Taktse College.”
MPs also questioned the employment prospects of graduates from the new programmes.
“With new programmes being introduced, it’s important to ensure they lead to employment. If, after 10 years, graduates struggle to find jobs, there’s a risk the programmes may be discontinued again. That’s why the education ministry needs to coordinate with relevant agencies to monitor employability outcomes,” said Naiten Wangchuk, Monggar MP.
In response, the education and skills development minister Yeezang De Thapa said the programmes are well-researched and reviewed.
The minister, “RUB will need time to adjust to the new programmes, for which it will need experts and lecturers to deliver the new courses. The ministry will consult with RUB on this matter.”
MPs also raised concerns over the limited admissions across RUB colleges, which currently accommodate only 20 per cent of class 12 graduates.
The minister explained that the National Skilling Roadmap aims to provide skills training to 60 per cent of students, while remaining 40 per cent would pursue higher education under RUB.
She added that the university could increase college admissions in the future.
Sonam Yuden
Edited by Sangay Chezom
