Chencho Dema

Khotokha, Wangdue—Pem Choki, an 18-year-old from Merak in Trashigang, had never attended school or ventured far from home—her longest journey being to nearby Mongar. When her village gup introduced her to Gyalsung, she was captivated by its vision to empower youth. Despite her lack of formal education and the challenges it might bring, Pem decided to join the programme, embracing it as an opportunity for growth and transformation.

Driven by a deep sense of duty and patriotism, Pem Choki was determined to serve her King and country in a meaningful way. For her, the journey was not merely about confronting personal challenges but about seizing the opportunity to grow and contribute.

Yesterday, she proudly stood among the inaugural cohort of 573 Gyalsups during their Passing out Parade at the Gyalsung Academy in Khotokha, Wangdue.

His Majesty the King, Her Majesty the Gyaltsuen, His Royal Highness Prince Jigme Namgyel Wangchuck, and His Royal Highness Prince Ugyen Wangchuck graced the occasion, alongside Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay, members of the cabinet, parliamentarians, officials from the armed forces, parents, and senior government officials.

Over three months, the Gyalsung cadets engaged in rigorous Basic Military Training alongside lessons in national education, driglam namzha (Bhutanese etiquette), choeshey larim (spiritual teachings), leadership development, and essential life skills.

Phuntsho Choden from Bayling Higher Secondary School in Trashiyangtse chose a unique path by forgoing college to enrol in Gyalsung.

“Thanks to the leadership I received in school, I managed to adapt to the rigorous training, although it was challenging at first,” she said. “The last three months have been the most memorable days of my life.”

Another cadet, who had struggled with substance use, described Gyalsung as a turning point in his life. Determined to join the programme despite the mandatory medical test, he quit drugs beforehand. The structured daily training not only kept him occupied but also curbed his cravings. Grateful for this second chance, he vowed never to return to his past habits. Inspired by his newfound purpose, he now plans to pursue higher education, a decision shaped by his transformative experience in Gyalsung.

Pem Choki recalled that her first day of training was particularly challenging, but with guidance and support from her instructors, she gradually adapted. While she found physical training the toughest, her determination helped her persevere and overcome the demands of the programme.

For Sonam Sersang Penjor from Thimphu, Gyalsung was a transformative experience.

“I am returning home as a more disciplined individual,” she said. “I urge all youth to join Gyalsung—it truly transforms you into a better person.”

Instructors at the academies proudly reflected on the cadets’ remarkable growth.

“When they first arrived, many struggled to speak Dzongkha fluently or follow a disciplined routine, like waking up early,” one instructor said. “Some were into smoking or drinking, but they have now quit these habits. Many who could not run a few kilometres can now run over 10kms and do 60 sit-ups in a minute. Their dedication has been extraordinary.”

Yesterday marked a historic milestone as the first cohort of 2,001 Gyalsups celebrated their passing out parade.

The academies will welcome the second cohort of 1,800 cadets, who will begin training on December 16 and graduate on March 15, 2025.