Her Majesty Sangay Choden Wangchuck met with students, local leaders, and government officials in Samtse yesterday as part of a High-Level Advocacy Tour aimed at strengthening awareness of women’s health, rights, and social issues across the country.
The advocacy initiative, themed “Rights, Justice, Action: For All Women and Girls,” seeks to encourage communities and institutions to work collectively in addressing challenges affecting women and girls while promoting a culture of dignity, equality, and well-being.
During a programme held at Samtse College of Education, Her Majesty delivered the keynote address, stressing that the health and rights of women are central to the progress of families, communities, and the nation as a whole. She emphasised that a woman’s dignity and independence are closely tied to her ability to access quality healthcare and make informed decisions about her own body.
Addressing the students, many of whom will become educators in the future, Her Majesty highlighted the transformative role teachers play in society. Beyond teaching academic subjects, she said, educators shape attitudes, values, and mindsets that influence future generations.
Her Majesty underscored the broader social impact of empowering women and girls. When women thrive, she said, families prosper and communities become stronger. She also stressed the importance of involving men and boys as partners in promoting equality and respect, noting that shared responsibility within families and communities is vital for lasting progress.
The advocacy programme also featured presentations from officials and organisations working on social and public health issues. Representatives discussed emerging challenges affecting communities and called for stronger collaboration among institutions and greater involvement from young people.
The tour brings together several stakeholders, including RENEW, the National Commission for Women and Children, the Pema Secretariat, the Ministry of Health, the United Nations Population Fund, and the Office of the Attorney General.
During a question-and-answer session, participants raised a number of concerns related to social well-being. Issues discussed included workplace harassment, access to long-term birth control for young people, mental health challenges, and the welfare of children affected by divorce.
Her Majesty also met members of a community network involved in addressing health and social concerns upon arriving in Samtse from Haa on Monday. She commended their commitment to supporting communities and responding to emerging social and public health priorities.
Community members also highlighted potential social challenges linked to the growing number of industries in the region, emphasising the need for early interventions and coordinated efforts to address them.
The Queen Mother’s advocacy tour will continue tomorrow in Phuentsholing, where further engagements with communities and stakeholders are planned.
