Yesterday marked a historic moment for Bhutan as the inaugural batch of Gyalsung Cadets proudly graduated, culminating in synchronized Passing Out Parades (POP) across the four Gyalsung Academies located in Khotokha, Pemathang, Jamtsholing, and Gyalpozhing.
The grand ceremony in Khotokha was honored by the presence of His Majesty the King, who delivered an inspiring address to Gyalsups attending from all four academies. Accompanying the King were Her Majesty the Gyaltsuen and Their Royal Highnesses Gyalsey Jigme Namgyel Wangchuck and Gyalsey Ugyen Wangchuck, underscoring the event’s significance.
Dignitaries in attendance included the Prime Minister, high-ranking officers from the armed forces, senior government officials, lopens of the Zhung Dratshang, and esteemed foreign guests. Their presence highlighted the national importance of this milestone.
Representing His Majesty at the parades in Gyalpozhing, Jamtsholing, and Pemathang were His Royal Highness Gyaltshab Jigme Dorji Wangchuck, Her Royal Highness Princess Kesang Chodren Wangchuck, and Her Royal Highness Princess Dechan Yangzom Wangchuck, respectively. The celebrations were further enriched by the participation of the families of the Gyalsups, who gathered to honor their loved ones’ achievements.
In his heartfelt speech, His Majesty emphasized the crucial role of Gyalsung in Bhutan’s nation-building efforts. “Gyalsung training is a transformative journey for every future generation of Bhutanese, empowering them to grow stronger, more capable, and ready to serve our nation,” he declared. He further articulated the national vision of preserving Bhutan’s heritage and ensuring progress for future generations. “It is our duty to protect our greatest wealth and inheritance, ensuring that each generation builds upon the achievements of the past to foster greater prosperity and happiness for Bhutan.”
His Majesty highlighted the importance of National Service in maintaining the country’s security, stability, and well-being. By equipping each Bhutanese with the strength and capabilities of ten individuals, the nation aims to enhance its resilience and secure a unified, disciplined future grounded in shared purpose.
The POP celebrated the accomplishments of 2,001 young men and women from the 2024 Gyalsung batch, signifying their transition from Cadets to fully-fledged Gyalsups. This event not only recognized their dedication but also affirmed their readiness to uphold their responsibilities as loyal citizens of Bhutan.
Launched on September 5, 2024, the Gyalsung training program featured an intensive three-month curriculum. Cadets underwent Basic Military Training, which included physical fitness regimes, obstacle courses, and weapon handling. Additionally, they participated in comprehensive sessions on National Education, Bhutanese history, domestic security, Choesay Larim, and leadership development.
Looking ahead, the newly minted Gyalsups are prepared to commence National Service upon activation by Gyalsung Headquarters. They also have opportunities for further growth through voluntary initiatives such as “Gyalsups for Gyalsung,” which offers specialized on-the-job training in professional and technical skills through involvement in national projects, including the construction of Gyalsung Academies.
Gyalsung, Bhutan’s National Service program, was inaugurated by His Majesty the King on the 112th National Day in 2019. Conceived as a visionary initiative, Gyalsung aims to empower Bhutanese youth to play a pivotal role in nation-building while safeguarding the country’s peace, security, and sovereignty.
As Bhutan steps into this new chapter, the successful graduation of the first Gyalsung Cadets stands as a testament to the nation’s commitment to fostering a resilient and united future.
