In a major step toward digital transformation in education, ten schools across ten districts in Bhutan are set to receive full internet coverage by next year. This initiative is part of a larger digitalisation project funded by the European Union (EU), aimed at improving internet access, teacher training, and the development of digital content.
With financial backing of one million Euros—over Nu 96 million—the three-year project was launched last year through a partnership between the EU, UNICEF, and Bhutan’s Ministry of Education and Skills Development. The effort targets 6,000 students and 400 teachers, introducing new standards for digital learning and equipping educators with essential skills to integrate technology into the classroom.
Digital learning is not a new concept in Bhutan, but this initiative takes a more structured approach. Beyond providing connectivity, the project establishes a foundation for Bhutan’s first-ever Education Technology Framework, which will standardize digital education content and support the national ICT education plan, iSherig 3.
“This EU-UNICEF-supported initiative will be the strong foundation, we believe, for the Education Technology Framework policy of the country,” said Franck Viault, Minister Counsellor and Head of Cooperation of the EU Delegation to India and Bhutan. “Connectivity is to meet the infrastructure needs. Then there’s the content—to make the curriculum more accessible online. And equally important is capacity building, empowering teachers to effectively use technology in teaching.”
Among the pilot schools is Changangkha Middle Secondary School in Thimphu, a pioneer in inclusive education. The school currently serves 165 students with disabilities, including 25 non-verbal learners. With digitalisation, the school anticipates transformative changes, particularly through the use of assistive technology.
Nyendo, Principal of Changangkha MSS, expressed optimism: “ICT has become so important in teaching and learning. For a school like ours, which supports children with different needs, assistive devices can be life-changing. Digitalisation will help us access resources so that non-verbal students can learn more effectively.”
The broader vision of the project goes beyond hardware and connectivity. It aims to enhance digital literacy at all levels, from early childhood to secondary education, and ensure that the integration of technology in the classroom is safe, inclusive, and meaningful.
Viault noted that the EU is considering further financial support to expand the programme, underlining its commitment to long-term education development in Bhutan.
As Bhutan lays the groundwork for a digital education future, the pilot schools serve as testing grounds for innovation and inclusion—preparing the country’s next generation for an increasingly connected world.
