In a decisive move to safeguard Bhutan’s linguistic and cultural heritage, the National Assembly’s Social and Cultural Committee has strongly recommended the continuation of the College of Language and Cultural Studies (CLCS). The committee’s proposal calls for a comprehensive overhaul of the college’s programmes and modules, with a renewed focus on the Dzongkha language and Bhutanese culture.
The Royal University of Bhutan (RUB) had previously suspended new enrollments at CLCS in 2023, resulting in a dramatic decline in student numbers. Currently, only 248 students are enrolled in their third and fourth years, starkly contrasting the college’s capacity to accommodate over 1,000 students. This halt, alongside the gradual discontinuation of several programmes, has sparked significant concerns regarding the institution’s sustainability and future prospects.
Highlighting the government’s substantial investment, the committee underscored that over Nu 1 billion has been allocated to CLCS’s infrastructure, positioning it as one of the most well-equipped colleges within RUB. “CLCS is not just an educational institution; it is a cornerstone of our national identity,” the committee stated. Emphasizing its unique role, the committee pointed out that CLCS remains the only tertiary-level institution dedicated exclusively to promoting Bhutan’s national language and cultural heritage.
To ensure the college’s relevance and effectiveness, the committee proposed several strategic initiatives. These include establishing CLCS as a dedicated Dzongkha Language Research Centre and introducing advanced academic programmes such as Master’s and PhD degrees in Dzongkha and Cultural Studies. These enhancements aim to elevate the college’s academic standing and better serve the cultural preservation objectives of the nation.
Additionally, the committee called for enhanced collaboration between the Ministry of Education and Skills Development and RUB to eliminate overlapping programmes with other institutions like the Royal Institute of Performing Arts and the Institute of Science of Mind. A more unified academic framework is deemed essential to streamline course offerings and prevent duplication, thereby optimizing educational resources and outcomes.
Currently, CLCS offers bachelor’s degrees in Dzongkha and Culture Studies, Language and Literature, and a Master’s in Dzongkha and Choekay. However, programmes such as the Bachelor’s in Himalayan Studies and a Diploma in Language and Communication Skills have been phased out as part of RUB’s reform initiatives since 2021, targeting courses that were no longer aligned with market demands.
In the event that revitalization efforts do not materialize, the committee outlined contingency plans to repurpose CLCS. Potential alternatives include transforming the college into a central model school, a leading STEM institution, or a regional school catering to students from Sarpang Dzongkhag. These options are particularly relevant if developments like Gelephu’s evolution into a Mindfulness City lead to the closure of existing educational facilities.
Despite these challenges, the committee remains steadfast in its belief in CLCS’s critical role. “Preserving our national language and culture is paramount for educating future citizens who uphold Bhutan’s unique identity,” the committee emphasized. Furthermore, it was recommended that CLCS maintain its status as a secular and inclusive institution, free from any religious affiliations, ensuring it remains accessible to all segments of society.
The committee’s recommendations aim to secure a vibrant future for CLCS, reinforcing its mission to nurture Bhutan’s cultural and linguistic heritage. By implementing these strategic changes, CLCS is poised to continue its vital contribution to Bhutan’s education system and cultural preservation efforts, ensuring that the nation’s rich traditions are upheld for generations to come.
