The historic Bhutan’s National Service Programme, Gyalsung will commence next week. More than 2,100 Bhutanese youths born in 2005 will be trained at the four Gyalsung Academies spread across the country for three months in the first cohort. Gearing up for the programme designed to impart discipline, knowledge, and leadership skills, youths selected for the training have been preparing themselves, both physically and mentally. For them, the training is a challenge and an opportunity to grow and contribute to nation-building.
Ugyen Kinchup Wangyel from Paro is soon going to join the Gyalsung training programme at Pemathang Gyalsung Academy in Samdrup Jongkhar.
The 19-year-old recently completed his high school in India. He could have delayed the training and continued his studies, but he chose to prioritise joining Gyalsung.
“It gives me an opportunity to relearn the culture, the traditions, the customs and the manners that we were taught as a kid and to be a better person in the future. Serving the country is a big thing for me as well. That is why I chose to join Gyalsung rather than continuing my studies because I can do that in the future anyway while this is like a one-time thing.”
Ugyen underwent his medical screening at Gidakom Hospital last week. Every Gyalsung trainee is required to undergo thorough medical check-ups such as blood and urine tests, dental checkups, and x-rays.
As enthusiastic as he is about joining the programme, Kinchup is aware of what he signed up for. Realising that it is a physically demanding training programme, he has been working on his physical strength by going to the gym.
“I am quite excited to join Gyalsung. The reason I am excited is especially for the physical training because I feel it gives us purpose in life to pursue the wellbeing of the mind and body together.”
Despite spending his high school days abroad and having returned home recently, preparing for the Gyalsung training programme is not much of a challenge for Ugyen Kinchup. His uncle, who is looking forward to the historic programme, has been helping him with the necessary support.
“I think Gyalsung is a really good programme because they get opportunities to learn new skills and showcase their ability,” said Ugyen Kinchup’s uncle.
Like Ugyen, his fellow Gyalsung trainees are equally enthusiastic about joining the training programme.
“I didn’t have any opportunity to serve my country till now and my dream has always been to join the army. I think this is a chance and I am excited about it. I have been working hard for seven months without any break for the Gyalsung program as I could not qualify for higher studies,” said Tshewang Lhamo, a Gyalsung trainee.
By attending the training programme, these young minds are determined to make their country proud.
Once they reach their respective Gyalsung Academy campus, the trainees are expected to learn skills including teamwork, independence, and essential life skills.
The Gyalsung National Service is a Royal Initiative. His Majesty The King announced it during the Royal Address of the 112th National Day celebrations on 17th December 2019.
Pema Tshomo & Phub Dorji
Edited by Phub Gyem
