The Yonphula Specialised Rehabilitation School is set to open next month. The industry, commerce and employment minister announced it yesterday during the Meet the Press session. The school was initially scheduled to open earlier this year. However, delays in infrastructure redevelopment have pushed back the opening date. The school is the first of its kind in the country, designed to support students recovering from substance abuse to continue their education while undergoing guided recovery.
As of now, renovation and remodelling of the main structures, such as the academic block and dining hall, are almost complete, while hostel renovation is in full swing.
Campus development works, including fencing and the construction of sports facilities, are still underway.
155 trainees from the technical training institutes, including Zorig Chusum, are actively engaged in the renovation work.
The renovation, which began in September last year, is being carried out at a cost of Nu 134 M.
Industry, Commerce, and Employment Minister Namgyal Dorji said, “The student screening and admission process is being jointly undertaken by the PEMA, the Royal Bhutan Police and the Ministry to ensure appropriate placement and support. The Ministry acknowledges that in some cases, there may be denial or resistance from parents and guardians. However, the Ministry wishes to assure the public that this initiative is being carried out with the utmost care, sensitivity and in the best interests of the children with the shared goal of helping them reintegrate successfully into society.”
The school will follow the national curriculum, and its recovery-focused approach will include skills training, structured health and fitness programmes, and counselling services.
Teachers have undergone training in Bhutan, India, and Thailand to better assist students in recovery.
The school will serve as a transitional support centre. Once students show progress in their recovery journey, they will be reintegrated into regular schools. However, those requiring medical detoxification and intensive clinical care will be referred to the PEMA Rehabilitation Centre.
The initiative, which integrates care, education, and purpose, offers recovering youths a second chance to rebuild their lives meaningfully.
Sonam Darjay, Trashigang
Edited by Phub Gyem
