Dear Editor,
At just 13, Pema Tsho Sakhu, a Bhutanese student in Australia, is breaking barriers in space science—designing satellite components, launching rockets, and collaborating with leading experts in Curtin University’s BinarX programme. Her magnetometer for altitude detection and infrared sensor for Earth observation will soon orbit Earth, marking an extraordinary achievement grounded in years of self-driven learning, scholarships, and awards.
Pema’s rapid progress—from her first mini-model rocket in January 2024 to commanding satellite deployments from Japan’s Aerospace Exploration Agency mission control—demonstrates the transformative power of early STEM education and mentorship. Her story shows that Bhutanese youth, if supported with modern laboratories, scholarships, and international partnerships, can lead innovations that benefit both nation and globe.
To sustain this momentum and drive economic growth, Bhutan must prioritize STEM: expand hands-on science programs, invest in research infrastructure, and foster collaborations abroad. By nurturing talent like Pema’s at home, Bhutan can ensure a future of homegrown innovation and global leadership.
Sincerely,
Deki Choden, Karma Academy
