Forty-seven students from schools across Bhutan departed for Bangkok yesterday as part of the third batch of the Tongsa Penlop Inspire Programme (TPIP). The programme is an initiative aimed at inspiring underprivileged but academically promising students through overseas educational exposure.
For many of these Class Eight students, this is their first time travelling outside their district, their first flight, and their first direct exposure to life beyond Bhutan.
The group includes students from underprivileged backgrounds, as well as those who excel academically.
This year, Drukair also selected students from institutions such as Wangsel Institute for the Deaf and Happy Homes, which support children with disabilities.
For 15-year-old Tandin Karma Lhazen, a student of The Royal Academy, stepping onto an aircraft opens the door to new experiences beyond Bhutan.
She said, “When I go to Bangkok, I know I will meet new friends and experience life in a big city. When I return, I hope to bring back what I learn, compare it with our ways in Bhutan, and share those experiences with youth like me.”
Accompanied by seven teachers and Drukair escort staff, the students will explore Bangkok and take part in cultural and educational visits.
Choki, a teacher at the Wangsel Institute for the Deaf in Paro said, “We will have the opportunity to visit schools in Thailand and learn from experts there. I hope to gain new knowledge and skills that will help me teach my students better and broaden their learning experiences.”
“I am excited to share my experiences in Bangkok with my friends and family when I return. I am travelling to a place even my parents have never been to, and that gives me a strong sense of achievement. It feels like I am fulfilling my parents’ aspirations for me,”said Sonam Pelden, a student of Wangchhu Middle Secondary School, Chhukha.
“My friends and I are very excited about this trip. I want to learn how people live there and bring those experiences back home. I hope it will broaden my understanding of the world, and I feel blessed to be part of this opportunity,” said Tandin Jamtsho, a student of the Bjishong Central School, Gasa.
TPIP was launched in 2018 as an educational outreach initiative of Drukair, evolving from the Tongsa Penlop Rolling Trophy Annual Golf Tournament. After two batches in 2018 and 2019, yesterday’s departure marked the third batch of the programme.
“Our aim is to make this a national programme covering all 20 districts. We sponsor two students from each dzongkhag, one boy and one girl, to ensure gender balance,” said Tandi Wangchuk, the CEO of the Drukair Corporation Limited.
He added that Drukair views the programme not as a trip, but as an investment in Bhutan’s future.
“It is a learning experience. Visiting another country is not just about seeing a city, but about understanding the culture. We want students to gain confidence, broaden their perspectives, and think about their future aspirations.”
As the students boarded the aircraft, for Tandin and for the dozens with her, the flight was more than just a trip to Bangkok. What awaits them in Bangkok may last only days, but the confidence and aspirations gained could shape a lifetime.
Karma Samten Wangda, Paro
Edited by Sangay Chezom
