Thinley Namgay

The Chithuen Phendhey Association (CPA), a registered civil society organisation (CSO), started a Youth Leadership Programme for 32 students from eight higher secondary schools within the Thimphu Thromde yesterday.

The programme, which will run till September 17, is in line with the Association’s commitment to raise awareness and educate the youth and public about substance and alcohol use.   

The YLP is designed to develop crucial life skills such as critical thinking, public speaking, research, communication, and leadership.

The programme also intends to foster skills for personal growth and civic engagement such as confidence-building, teamwork, problem solving abilities, empathy, and leadership qualities, among others.

The programme features competitive events, including debates and public speaking in both Dzongkha and English, lasting about two hours.

In a debate yesterday, students from BFF Academy and Rinchen HSS debated on the topic “Parenting vs School: Whose Role is More Crucial in Preventing Drug Use?”

BFF Academy emerged victorious in both the debate and public speaking competition.

Students and teachers of BFF Academy are optimistic to win the competition. They said that the school has been training for the competition for a while and expectations are very high.

Most of debate topics are related to drugs, which includes drug education programmes, addressing drug addiction, social stigma and discrimination against drug users, among others.

During the Preliminary Round, students  demonstrate their public speaking skills by presenting on themes related to eight selected CSOs. Each participant focuses on the overall mandate of their assigned CSO, explaining its significance and impact on the community and nation.

In the semifinals, participants will speak on topics related to drugs, and AI and youth employment, among others.

Tshering Yangdon, a class XII student of Yangchenphug HSS, said that the CPA’s programme not only promotes dzongkha but also helps students broaden their understanding of drug prevention and leadership.

Health Minister Tandin Wangchuk, who attended the launch, said that the government is committed to addressing drug use and mental health issues in the country to promote the well-being of the youth.

Lyonpo highlighted that leadership and communication skills are essential not only for personal development but also for making a meaningful impact in the world.

The programme is organised in partnership with BBS and funded by Bhutan National Bank.

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