Numerous youth programmes are being held across the country to engage them meaningfully, especially during the holidays. Among the many engagement programmes happening nationwide, the Thimphu Youth Friendly Integrated Service Centre’s week-long summer engagement programme is seeing an increasing interest from children, with parental support. The programme, which ended today, is organised by the Programme and Youth Coordination Division of the Department of Education Programmes under the Education and Skills Development Ministry.
More than 60 children aged 8 to 15 are engaged in learning lifelong skills during their breaks.
Depending on their choice of interest, children are taking part in a variety of interactive activities including reading, chess, dance, art and craft and music that promote personal development, teamwork and values.
28 youth volunteers are facilitating the sessions. They plan and lead the sessions, helping create a positive and inclusive environment for all participants.
“It’s often during breaks that youth like us start ruining our lives. So, instead of loitering around, taking part in such programmes allows us to learn new things and connect with more people,” said Tshewang Namgyel, Facilitator, Harmony Youth Volunteers.
“During holidays, screen time increases. So, I think it’s very important to keep them engaged, especially during the holidays. Engagement programmes like this are liberating because we can take them away from their phones,” said Kuenga Palmo, Facilitator, Harmony Youth Volunteers.
The engagement programme is seeing rising interest from children and parents.
“We are dropping our children here for the programme in the morning and picking them up in the evening. Even children are showing interest. My son’s interest is to learn the guitar. He has been learning since last year, and this time, his sister also joined,” said Dawa Gyeltshen, Parent.
The Programme and Youth Coordination Division, with its 13 youth centres across the country, organises the programme to engage youth and children during their holidays.
“There are chances that they may engage in harmful activities when they have nothing to do. To make their holidays meaningful, we are organising such a programme,” said Amrith Bdr. Subba, Principal Counsellor, Programme and Youth Coordination Division, Department of Education Programmes, MoESD.
Police records show that more than 90 children came in conflict with the law this year.
Such engagement programmes during the holidays could be a solution to such rising youth-related issues in the country.
Kelzang Chhophyel
Edited by Phub Gyem
