Anywhere in the world, national service has always been one of the most powerful instruments for nation building. In Bhutan, Gyalsung Academy represents the image and soul of this endeavour. As the first cohort embarks on their journey, it is imperative to understand that Gyalsung is not just another training programme; it is an engagement of our young people who will ultimately shape our nation’s future.
What is Gyalsung? This is the question many still ask.
Gyalsung is much more than academic and military training. It is a holistic approach to nation-building that will nurture young minds, strengthen their character, and equip them with the skills they need to contribute to our country’s development. At its core, Gyalsung is about fostering unity, instilling a sense of responsibility, and developing the leadership skills that will propel our country forward. More important, by bringing together youth from different regions, backgrounds, and aspirations, the programme cultivates a shared sense of national identity, critical for building a cohesive and resilient society.
The investment in Gyalsung is unprecedented, both financially and philosophically. It is a project that demands success, not merely because of the resources it consumes, but because of the promise it holds for Bhutan’s future. With proper guidance, this initiative stands to create a generation of disciplined, knowledgeable, and patriotic citizens who are ready to take on the responsibilities of nation-building. The importance of Gyalsung goes beyond individual transformation; it is a collective movement that will help shape the trajectory of our nation.
Our youth are the heart and soul of our progress, and it is through such programmes that we can harness their potential. In a rapidly globalising world, young Bhutanese must possess the skills, confidence, and dedication to ensure that our nation remains strong and resilient. Gyalsung prepares our children for this by providing not only physical training but also courses in civics, entrepreneurship, and disaster response, ensuring that they are well-rounded individuals capable of facing modern challenges.
At the heart of the Gyalsung programme lies the capacity to promote a culture of service. National service is not just about military drills; it is about nurturing a spirit of volunteerism and commitment to the greater good. Appreciating this in its many forms and manifestations is vitally important. Whether in times of peace or crisis, national service must ensure that we are prepared, united, and focused on collective goals.
It is also worth noting that Gyalsung can help bridge the urban-rural divide, a key issue facing our country today. By bringing together young people from diverse backgrounds and fostering mutual understanding, it can help break down barriers that may otherwise hinder social cohesion. This unity is crucial for us as a nation, as it will allow us to address our challenges with a collective spirit.
For Gyalsung to truly succeed, however, it requires the full support of every citizen. It is not only the responsibility of the participants but of all Bhutanese to champion this life-changing cause. Our future depends on it. The seeds planted through Gyalsung today will blossom into a stronger, more confident, and self-reliant Bhutan tomorrow.