A total of 2,847 Gyalsups successfully completed their training under the second cohort of Gyalsung Training 2026, marking another milestone in Bhutan’s efforts to prepare its youth for greater responsibilities in nation-building.
His Majesty The King graced the Passing Out Parade at the Gyalsung Academy in Khotokha, Wangdue Phodrang, on Thursday. Similar ceremonies were held simultaneously at the Gyalsung Academies in Pemathang, Gyalpozhing and Jamtsholing.
Addressing the Gyalsups across all four academies from Khotokha, His Majesty expressed satisfaction with the progress Bhutan is making and the unity demonstrated by the Bhutanese people in working towards a common national aspiration.
“I see providence, determination, focus, clarity, and above all, I see how united we are,” His Majesty said.
His Majesty described Gyalsung as one of the most extraordinary achievements of the present generation, made possible through the unwavering support of the Bhutanese people. His Majesty also paid tribute to His Majesty The Fourth Druk Gyalpo and the generations before, whose sacrifices, leadership and contributions laid the strong foundations upon which Bhutan continues to build its future.
Reflecting on the significance of Gyalsung, His Majesty said the programme is much more than a period of training. It provides young Bhutanese from different backgrounds an opportunity to live, learn and grow together while developing a deeper understanding of their shared identity and responsibilities towards the country.
“This training is a rite of passage, a social equalizer, and a common experience,” His Majesty said.
His Majesty emphasised that irrespective of their family circumstances or backgrounds, all Gyalsups come together as Bhutanese, united by a common purpose. The experience, His Majesty said, would remain an important part of their lives as they enter adulthood and prepare to shoulder greater responsibilities.
His Majesty also spoke about the lasting bonds formed through Gyalsung, describing it as a third family in the lives of young Bhutanese, alongside the families they are born into and the relationships they build throughout their lives.
Over the next two decades, the combined Gyalsung and Desuung community is expected to grow to 326,000 members, creating a nationwide network of individuals connected through shared experiences, trust, loyalty and service to the nation.
His Majesty underscored the importance of developing a capable and adaptable population, particularly given Bhutan’s small size.
“What we lack in numbers, we must make up with competence, agility, adaptability, and coordination,” His Majesty said.
His Majesty reminded the Gyalsups that Bhutan must understand its own strengths and circumstances while preparing for the future. Although the country may not possess the advantages of larger nations, it has its own favourable conditions, and the choices made today will determine the opportunities available to future generations.
In a personal reflection, His Majesty expressed his wish to one day witness His Royal Highness Gyalsey Jigme Namgyel Wangchuck, His Royal Highness Gyalsey Ugyen Wangchuck and Her Royal Highness Gyalsem Sonam Yangden undergo the same experience.
His Majesty said the occasion would become a cherished memory for the graduating Gyalsups, one they could share with their children, grandchildren and future generations as Gyalsung becomes an enduring part of Bhutanese society.
Expressing pride in the graduating cadets, His Majesty also thanked parents and families for their wholehearted support of the programme. His Majesty highlighted the wisdom and collective spirit of the Bhutanese people, which have enabled the country to undertake important national initiatives through unity and cooperation.
Of the 2,847 Gyalsups graduating in the second cohort, 25 were Bhutanese youth residing abroad who returned home to participate in the training.
The 2026 batch is the largest cohort trained since the introduction of Gyalsung in 2024. With the latest graduation, the total number of young Bhutanese who have completed Gyalsung training has reached 12,707.
The Passing Out Parade at Pemathang was attended by Opposition Leader Dasho Pema Chewang, while the Chairperson of the Royal Privy Council, Lyonpo Dr. Tandin Dorji, attended the ceremony at Gyalpozhing. National Council Chairperson Thrizin Sangay Dorji attended the ceremony at Jamtsholing.
Venerable Lopens of the Zhung Dratshang, Cabinet Ministers, senior officers of the Armed Forces, government officials, foreign dignitaries, and families and friends of the Gyalsups also attended the ceremonies.
With each graduating cohort, Gyalsung continues to bring together young Bhutanese under a shared national experience, strengthening the values of discipline, responsibility, cooperation and service.
The growing participation of Bhutanese youth, including those living overseas, also reflects the programme’s role in fostering a sense of belonging and connection to the country.
As the latest batch of Gyalsups returns to their communities, the training they have received is expected to contribute towards the larger national aspiration of building a capable, united and resilient Bhutan.
