The is embarking on a transformative journey with the initiation of the Gyalsung National Service. This initiative, envisioned by His Majesty The King, aims to strengthen the bonds among Bhutanese youth while equipping them with essential life skills, irrespective of their backgrounds. As the National Service registration begins, it’s time to explore this groundbreaking program and its potential impact.
A Vision for a Stronger Bhutan:
The roots of Gyalsung National Service trace back to the Royal Address during the 112th National Day on December 17, 2019. In November 2022, the Parliament passed the Gyalsung Act, setting the stage for this ambitious endeavor. Dasho Karma Tshiteem, Chairperson of the National Service Core Working Group (NSCWG), highlights what makes Bhutan’s Gyalsung program unique. It promises to immerse all Bhutanese youths in a shared experience that fosters strong bonds among themselves and with their country through skills and experiences.
Inclusive Skill Development:
One of the primary objectives of Gyalsung is to provide lifelong skills to all eligible Bhutanese citizens, regardless of their educational, social, regional, or linguistic backgrounds. The program will collaborate with schools to introduce physical training initiatives like scouting programs, ensuring that participants are physically fit and prepared for the training.
Structured Training and Academies:
The Gyalsung program is structured meticulously, with courses, training, and micro-details carefully documented. Instructors undergo rigorous training to become certified for Gyalsung academies. These academies will provide hands-on training, opening doors to related job opportunities or further education in Technical Training Institutes.
Commencement and Eligibility:
The first batch of Gyalsung will commence on September 1 next year, starting with a four-and-a-half-month training course. The complete one-year training will begin with the second batch in 2025. All eligible Bhutanese citizens are required to enlist for Gyalsung upon turning 18.
To be eligible, a Bhutanese citizen must be born between January 1, 2005, and December 31, 2005, and must sign up and register for Gyalsung Training 2024. The law grants exemptions for specific circumstances, including monastic school enrollment, medical unfitness, and college education or vocational training completion after class 12 in 2023.
Expansion with Four Gyalsung Academies:
Four Gyalsung Academies are under construction across Bhutan, with a combined maximum capacity of 13,000 participants. The first batch is expected to enroll around 6,000 individuals, as some are eligible for exemptions. These academies will offer a ten-month training program, including a short academic recess.
Health Screening and Support:
Health screening for Gyalsung will be conducted at 26 centers across Bhutan. Individuals are responsible for completing sign-up, registration, and medical screening within the stipulated time. The program aims to provide support for individuals struggling with substance use issues, focusing on recovery and participation.
Integrated Training Program:
The Gyalsung training program is designed as a one-year integrated program, featuring three months of basic military training (BMT) in all academies, followed by two weeks of national education. It also includes a one-week immersion program, allowing participants to explore different parts of the country.
Skills and Training Areas:
After the BMT, participants will specialize in four core areas: Home security (construction trades), Food Security (agricultural technology), ICT Security (cybersecurity and data science), and Community Security (first responder skills, first-aid, and more).
Future Prospects:
Upon completion of the one-year training program, Gyalsups may be called for both mandatory and voluntary duties until the age of 35, followed by the Gyalsung Reserve phase until the age of 45. Beyond this, those who miss Gyalsung or wish to contribute further can volunteer to join DeSuung.
As Gyalsung National Service takes flight, it promises to nurture a generation of capable, resilient, and patriotic citizens, ready to contribute to the nation’s development. This initiative is not just about building skills; it’s about forging bonds and strengthening the very fabric of Bhutanese society, ensuring a brighter future for the Land of the Thunder Dragon.
