Mikyo Dorjee is the only student to have been bestowed with two awards in a year in history of the school

Recognition: A tenth grade student of St. Jospeh’s School, North Point in Darjeeling is the first Bhutanese to win the coveted Depelchin gold medal and the rare White Coat.

Mikyo Dorjee, 16, was conferred the White Coat for excellence in sports early in May this year while he received the medal on October 16. Mikyo Dorjee is the only student to have been bestowed with two prestigious awards in a year in the 127 yearlong history of the school.

Named after the founder of the school, Henri Joseph Depelchin, the Depelchin Gold Medal, is awarded to the overall ‘most outstanding student’ in the school up to Class X.

An all-rounder, Mikyo said that his evident talents in the field of sports are a major reason for his achievements. “Words can’t describe my happiness for winning this prestigious award,” he said. “This means a lot to me and I’m very grateful to my parents, teachers and friends for their constant support.”

Mikyo has made his mark in the school by excelling in the major sporting events like football, basketball, volleyball, cricket and athletics. Mikyo was also acknowledged as the ‘best athlete’ by the school last month.

Mikyo’s father Sangay Dorji was equally excited. “It’s a very proud moment for us but more than that we’re happy for a Bhutanese creating this history,” he said. “As a parent we should encourage children into sports. I make a point to attend all his major sports activity and I feel proud seeing my son perform in front of me. A sporty nation is a healthy nation.”

In July Mikyo also received an audience with the prime minister and the education minister in Thimphu for his outstanding performance at the school.

“Authorities concerned must help groom such individuals and harness their potential for betterment of the future of the country,” said Sangay Dorji.

There are more 60 Bhutanese students studying at the St Joseph’s School in Darjeeling.

Younten Tshedup