Bhutan is taking a major step toward strengthening digital education through a new European Union-backed initiative that will expand internet connectivity across schools nationwide.
The €1 million programme, implemented in partnership with Bhutan’s Ministry of Education and Skills Development and UNICEF Bhutan, is expected to improve access to digital learning for more than 6,000 students and over 400 teachers. The effort is designed to modernize classrooms and create a more technology-driven learning environment in schools.
At the heart of the initiative is the introduction of campus-wide internet systems that will allow students and educators to access online educational resources more efficiently. Officials say the project is intended not only to improve connectivity, but also to build long-term digital skills among teachers and school staff.
A key component of the programme is the “Digital Lopen” initiative, which focuses on preparing teachers to integrate technology into daily classroom teaching. Selected educators are being trained as EdTech ambassadors who will later extend their knowledge to an additional 600 teachers across the country.
The programme also places emphasis on strengthening technical capacity within schools. ICT personnel and local teachers are receiving specialised training to provide on-site support and maintain the new digital infrastructure.
To complement the connectivity rollout, interactive science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) learning materials are being created for students in grades nine and ten. The content is being aligned with Bhutan’s national curriculum to ensure it supports classroom learning objectives.
Education officials say the broader vision of the initiative is to equip young Bhutanese with the digital knowledge and cybersecurity awareness needed for the modern workforce. By combining internet access, teacher training and curriculum development, the project aims to prepare students for increasing participation in the global digital economy while promoting safe and responsible technology use.
