A journey of gratitude and determination

As I approached my twentieth birthday in 2022, I found myself at a crossroads of uncertainty and introspection. After finishing my Class 12 exams, I reflected on my journey to this point. Growing up with a remarkable mother who raised me and my four brothers on her own, I was aware of the difficulties she faced in providing for our family. During this period of reflection, I realised the importance of becoming a responsible son and an important contributor to both my mother and my beloved country.

At this critical juncture, fortune smiled on me, and I was given the opportunity to join De-Suung. I joined without hesitation with the primary goal of serving my King, country, and people.

From April 13th to May 7th, 2022, I was a proud member of the 49th batch of De-Suung Accelerated Integrated Training at Pelrithang, Wing IX, Gelephu. I had no idea how much of an impact this training would have on me. It instilled in me a strong sense of patriotism, which strengthened my resolve to live a responsible and meaningful life that encompassed mental, emotional, spiritual, and physical aspects.

I began my first contribution to the nation as soon as I finished my training. On May 9th, 2022, as I set foot in eastern Bhutan’s Bondeyma Gyalsung project site, I felt an overwhelming sense of gratitude and duty towards My King, who has been my inspiration. In a moment of immense pride, I offered my tisso (salute) with my hand raised high.

Seeing my fellow de-suups already on the ground, selflessly serving the Tsawa Sum, strengthened my resolve even more. Regardless of the challenges that lay ahead, I was determined to follow my King’s lead and serve my country and people.

I devoted myself to the Bondeyma Gyalsung project site for approximately four months, from May 9, 2022 to August 31, 2022. However, when I was offered an 80 percent scholarship from Chandigarh University to pursue a BA Journalism and Mass Communication, I had to say good-by to my nyamros. But then, not long after, DSP (De-Suung Skilling Programme) head office brought another piece of blessed news for me. I had been selected for a three-month Digital Marketing Training at Yonphula DSP Centre in Trashigang. Given my interest in communications and media, I had applied for this training, eager to explore new possibilities.

On September 23, 2022, we arrived at the Yonphula DSP Training Centre, feeling privileged to participate in such a skilling programme under the guidance of His Majesty. Over the course of three intense months, experienced trainers from India shaped my future. Before the conclusion of the training, our trainer, Mohit Rathi, presented us with an opportunity. He would select the top 10 students and offer them jobs in digital marketing in India. 

After assignments and interviews with several high-ranking officials in India, the final question posed to me was, “Would you come to India if you are offered a job here?” Without hesitation, I replied, “Of course. I am passionate about building a career in digital marketing, and it would be a precious opportunity for me to learn from experts in India. However, ultimately, my desire is to return and serve my country with the knowledge I acquire.”

Destiny played its hand, and I found myself in India. On February 14, 2023, alongside nine other selected candidates, I departed for Noida, Delhi. 

“It is possible to fly without motors, but not without knowledge and skill,” said Wilbur Wright, one of the inventors of the aeroplane, in 1903. I express my sincere gratitude to Your Majesty for establishing the De-Suung Skilling Programme, providing direction and purpose to young people like myself who might otherwise wander aimlessly through life’s streets.

I would like to encourage every aspiring de-suup to embrace the skilling opportunities offered by the DSP. With determination and focus, these opportunities will undoubtedly shape your future. 

Contributed by 

Jigme Rinchen Pelden

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