Gelephu Mindfulness City (GMC) is set to strengthen its educational infrastructure with the establishment of The Hathisar School, a new primary school expected to open in February 2028. The initiative marks an important step towards creating a family-friendly urban environment while preparing future generations to contribute to Bhutan’s evolving economy.
The Gelephu Mindfulness City Authority (GMCA) has entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with The Hathisar School Pte. Ltd. to facilitate the development and operation of the institution. The proposed school will cater to children from early childhood through Grade Six, providing a comprehensive educational foundation for families residing in the emerging city.
At the heart of the institution’s academic approach will be the Bhutan Baccalaureate curriculum, an educational framework that places equal emphasis on intellectual growth, emotional well-being, physical development, social responsibility and spiritual awareness. By integrating these five dimensions, the school aims to nurture well-rounded individuals equipped to navigate an increasingly interconnected world while remaining grounded in Bhutanese values.
The institution will bring together Bhutanese and international educators, combining local cultural understanding with diverse teaching experiences and global perspectives. Its educational philosophy will seek to preserve Bhutan’s distinctive identity while exposing students to the knowledge and skills required in a changing world.
Highlighting the importance of education in GMC’s long-term development, GMCA Co-Chief Executive Officer Seow Hiang Lee said the city’s growth must be accompanied by adequate planning for families and future generations.
“Education is an essential part of building a liveable city, and this partnership is a critical step towards establishing that foundation,” Lee said.
Dasho Arun Kapur of The Hathisar School described the initiative as an extension of His Majesty The King’s vision for Gelephu Mindfulness City. He emphasised that the institution would seek to develop not only individual learners but also a stronger sense of community, drawing inspiration from Bhutan’s cultural traditions and Gelephu’s heritage.
The establishment of the school also reflects a broader understanding of urban development in which educational institutions, community spaces and essential services are considered integral to economic infrastructure. As GMC progresses towards becoming a centre for investment, innovation and sustainable development, access to quality education will be crucial in attracting and retaining families, professionals and skilled workers.
Beyond serving the immediate educational needs of residents, the initiative carries wider implications for Bhutan’s human capital development. A strong educational foundation can help cultivate critical thinking, creativity, adaptability and problem-solving abilities among young Bhutanese, preparing them for opportunities in emerging industries and knowledge-driven sectors.
The proposed institution is therefore expected to contribute to GMC’s long-term ambition of fostering a skilled, innovative and globally capable workforce without compromising the country’s cultural and spiritual foundations.
While the MoU establishes the framework for cooperation between GMCA and The Hathisar School Pte. Ltd., detailed plans concerning the school’s development and operations will be announced as the project advances.
With its anticipated opening in February 2028, The Hathisar School represents another step towards translating the vision of Gelephu Mindfulness City into a functioning urban community, where economic progress is supported by education, cultural continuity and the well-being of future generations.
