Yangyel Lhaden
Dechencholing Higher Secondary School in Thimphu, January 27— Children are busy sketching scenes from their village, filling the papers with colorful drawings of snow-capped mountains, blue poppies, yaks, horses, and men playing khuru.
One mountain bears the slogan “Source of water, cordyceps, medicinal herbs.”
Among these vivid images is a touching note: “I live in a small, beautiful village, surrounded by peaceful nature. We have yaks, cows, and horses. About 123 people live here, and everyone knows each other.”
These drawings are part of the Winter Camp for Highlander Students, which has brought together 42 students and two teachers from Lingzhi Lower Secondary School (LLSS), one of Bhutan’s most remote highland communities.
The camp, organised by the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) Bhutan office, is being held after a five-year break due to the Covid-19 pandemic. Over five days, students will take part in activities that promote learning, creativity, and pride in their unique heritage.
“Japanese schools focus on exploring and appreciating local features,” said Yoichiro Kimata, chief representative of JICA. “That is why we have planned activities to help students understand what makes their villages special. It is about more than just recognising attractions—it’s about learning through fieldwork, discussions, and presentations.”
Yoichiro Kimata said: “At the end of the camp, students will present their work. This will help them build teamwork, creativity, and self-confidence—skills Japanese schools promote through hands-on learning in subjects like science, art, and music. We hope this experience will shape future Bhutanese citizens who carry these values.”
Tshering, the principal of Lingzhi Lower Secondary School, said the camp was a great opportunity for students to learn, explore, and interact with JICA volunteers, adding that such experiences expand the students’ worldview, helping them move beyond the boundaries of their village.
Thirteen JICA volunteers from different professional fields are leading the activities. The programme includes sessions on ICT, science, health and physical education, hygiene and nutrition, art and craft, social development, and other interactive topics.
The theme for the 2025 Winter Camp is “Learning Together, Creating Together.”
“The goal of this winter camp is to inspire and motivate students, helping them broaden their horizons and develop important life skills,” said a JICA official. “The programme offers students a chance to learn in a fun and supportive environment, encouraging creativity, teamwork, and critical thinking.”
The opening ceremony at Dechencholing Higher Secondary School was filled with excitement as children, their rosy cheeks glowing in the cold, performed cultural dances in their school uniforms.
A highlight of the event was the Lingzhipai Zhey, a traditional local dance performed by parents. Male dancers wore red woolen ghos with black tegos, accessorised with intricate ornaments and furry hats. Women donned elegant kiras, complemented by flowing drapes over their shoulders.
Norbu Rinzin, the father of third-grader Tandin Tshomo, proudly brought his daughter to the camp. “I am grateful that my child can be part of something meaningful,” he said. “Even in the mountains, children spend too much time on screens instead of playing outside like we used to. This programme will help reduce my daughter’s screen time and engage her in a productive way.”
Tandin Tshomo, full of excitement, added, “I’ve been waiting for this camp to start, and I’m already enjoying it!”
Many families from Lingzhi migrate to Thimphu during the winter with their horses. The school made a special effort to collect the names of children coming to the city to include them in the programme. Some parents even traveled to Thimphu just for this opportunity.
Pema Gyeltshen, another parent, shared, “In remote villages, there aren’t many opportunities for children. I want my child to have the best chances to grow. In Lingzhi, even sixth graders struggle to match the skills of third graders in Thimphu. I want my child to have an equal footing.”
After the opening ceremony, children gathered at the basketball court for health and physical education. Laughing and singing, they danced with joy, already sweaty and energised before their theory classes began.
The first day was light and fun. In one class, children learned to make spinning tops from paper plates, their small hands busy with the craft. From another classroom came the soft, melodic notes of “do re mi fa so la ti do,” as a music class filled the air with song.
The camp began with an atmosphere of joy, energy, and creativity, setting the tone for the days ahead.