KP Sharma

Samtse—Located about 40 kilometres from Samtse town toward Tashicholing, Jamtsholing, formerly known as Sathbotay—otherwise a sleepy foothill settlement, has gained historical significance following the inauguration of the Gyalsung Academy by His Majesty the King yesterday.

The Jamtsholing Gyalsung Academy, one of the four such institutions across Bhutan, now houses 569 young recruits—279 men and 290 women—who will undergo an intensive three-month programme focusing on basic military training.

This first cohort is poised to undergo a training designed to instill discipline, unity, and patriotism.

The arrival of the Gyalsung Academy has sparked joy and excitement among the residents of Samtse.

Many feel honoured that Jamtsholing was chosen as one of the sites for the academy, a major boost to the area’s historical and future prospects.

A local from Tashicholing, Namgay Dorji, expressed his excitement at the launch of the much-awaited Gyalsung Programme. “The programme is not just a celebration but a hope for a stronger future for our youth and country,” he said. “His Majesty’s personal visit to inaugurate the academy is a moment of immense pride for us.”

He said that previously many high school graduates remained idle, often falling into unhealthy habits. “This programme offers a solution to such issues, giving hope that the future will be more responsible and reliable,” he said.

He expressed confidence that the Gyalsups will emerge from the training as more responsible individuals, equipped with valuable skills for the future.

A resident of Gola Bazar in Tashicholing, Dilip Kumar Giri, also shared his optimism for the programme. “I expect the youth will gain important skills and learn to be more responsible, which will benefit the country,” he said.

He stressed the importance of self-reliance, pointing out how Bhutan often relies on foreign workers for skilled tasks. “During the programme, our youth will learn various skills, which is really crucial, and I am hopeful that they will live up to the expectations and fulfill His Majesty’s vision.”

He also expressed his gratitude to His Majesty for the initiative. “I want to express my heartfelt thanks to His Majesty for this noble initiative which will ensure that our country will be led by responsible future leaders.”

Another resident, Rudra Bdr Ghalley, hailed the Gyalsung Programme as a major milestone for the country. “The introduction of Gyalsung reaffirms our commitment to nurturing responsible and talented future leaders,” he said.

He highlighted the success of the Desuung programme, which has already made a positive impact through volunteer services. “Gyalsung adds another layer of promise for a future led by capable citizens,” he added.

Beyond its impact on youth, the academy is also expected to stimulate the local economy.

Residents expect that the Gyalsung Academy will create new markets for their agricultural products and contribute to economic growth.

The people of Samtse expect that this initiative will uplift livelihoods, creating opportunities for the community to thrive alongside the academy’s development.