WÒRDS FÒR YÒU

Thimphu, Bhutan – More than 753 parents and counting have signed an online petition requesting the Ministry of Education and Skills Development (MoESD) to reconsider its decision to raise the minimum age for Pre-Primary (PP) admission to six years starting February 2026. The petition, initiated by journalist and social media influencer Namgay Zam at the request of concerned parents, voices strong apprehension that the new policy could inadvertently disadvantage hundreds of children currently enrolled in kindergartens.   Parents Highlight “Gap Year” Risk In a joint letter addressed to the Honourable Lyonpo, parents acknowledged the government’s intention to strengthen early childhood education but warned of unintended consequences. “ Under the revised rule, a large number of children will be ineligible for admission to PP in 2026 as well as in 2027,” the letter states. “This creates a ‘gap year,’ leaving children caught between the early learning system, which currently ends at ag...

King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck , the Dragon King of Bhutan, has once again demonstrated why his leadership is a beacon of hope for the world. On a historic visit to the southern region of Bhutan this week, the King unveiled a series of new initiatives that will transform the nation's approach to sustainable development, education, and international cooperation. The 45-year-old monarch, who is beloved for his down-to-earth style and innovative approach, announced a new national campaign aimed at significantly reducing Bhutan’s carbon footprint and enhancing the country's unique Gross National Happiness (GNH) model. Under this new strategy, Bhutan will ramp up its renewable energy projects, particularly in wind and solar, positioning the kingdom as a global leader in environmental sustainability. A Green Revolution “Bhutan will continue to lead by example. This is not just about preserving our environment—it’s about shaping a future where happiness and well-b...

In a heartening step toward rehabilitation and societal reintegration, the Prison Service Division of the Royal Bhutan Police (RBP) is set to showcase the talents and transformation of incarcerated individuals at the upcoming Trade Fair for Bhutanese Products. The event will be held at Clock Tower Square in Thimphu on 21 June 2025. Operating under the guiding belief that skill development can be a powerful tool for change, the Prison Service Division has been actively equipping inmates with vocational training across various trades. These programs aim to reduce recidivism, support successful reintegration, and foster a sense of dignity and purpose among inmates. The upcoming trade fair, organized in collaboration with the Bhutan Chamber of Commerce and Industry (BCCI), provides a valuable platform for inmates to display handcrafted products—each item a reflection of the personal growth, discipline, and skill honed behind prison walls. “We extend our heartfelt gr...

In a development that has stirred concern across the peaceful Kingdom of Bhutan, the United States — under President Donald Trump’s administration — is reportedly planning to significantly expand its travel restrictions, potentially banning citizens from 36 additional countries , including Bhutan . This controversial move, revealed through an internal cable from the U.S. State Department, marks a sharp escalation of President Trump’s immigration and national security policies during his second term. But the inclusion of Bhutan — a country globally renowned for its commitment to peace, sustainability, and Gross National Happiness (GNH) — has raised eyebrows and questions. 🔹 What Is the U.S. Doing to the GNH Country? Bhutan, with no known history of terrorism or anti-American activity, has been included in a list of countries under scrutiny for possible entry suspensions to the U.S. . According to the leaked directive, the reasoning centers on alleged concerns over passpor...

In memory of those lost aboard Air India Flight AI171  By WÒRDS FÓR YÔU – Bhutan In the hush of Ahmedabad’s noonday sun, A silver bird rose — its journey just begun. Dreams stitched in luggage, hope in every eye, None knew the sky would bid them goodbye. Above Meghani Nagar, joy turned to flame, The heavens cracked, too stunned to name The horror below — where laughter once stayed, A hostel's heart in ash now laid. Tables stood still with untouched plates, As life dissolved in cruel fates. Students, healers, kin and friend, Met silence none could comprehend. From London’s winds to India’s soil, A world now pauses, hearts recoil. A mother’s sob, a brother’s plea, Echoes through this tragedy. Only one soul walked through fire and night, With shattered breath and borrowed light. But countless names will not return, And countless candles still must burn. We, from the quiet hills of Bhutan’s grace, Mourn each life, each empty place. The sky above us weeps in grey — A thousan...

In a proactive move toward creating a safer and more responsible hospitality environment, the Royal Bhutan Police (RBP), in collaboration with the Hotel and Restaurant Association of Bhutan (HRAB), conducted an extensive awareness and sensitisation session on June 6 at Hotel Thimphu Residency. The session, held at HRAB’s request, brought together hotel owners, managers, and staff from key districts including Thimphu, Paro, Wangdue, and Chukha. The initiative aimed to address the growing concerns around crime and drug-related issues within the hospitality industry and to equip stakeholders with the knowledge and responsibilities required to mitigate such challenges. Key Topics and Discussions The sensitisation program covered a range of critical topics, such as: Crime and drug-related issues affecting hotels and surrounding communities Common challenges faced by the hotel sector and strategies for prevention Responsibilities of hotel management in promoting a saf...

Billionaire entrepreneur Elon Musk has sparked controversy by claiming that his influence was instrumental in securing Donald Trump’s 2024 presidential win. In a response to a post on X (formerly Twitter), Musk wrote: “Without me, Trump would have lost the election, Dems would control the House, and the Republicans would be 51-49 in the Senate.” The bold claim arrives at a time of mounting tensions between Musk and Trump, sparked by disagreements over a recently passed domestic policy bill. Reacting to Musk’s comments, President Trump expressed his dismay during a press briefing on Thursday: “I’m very disappointed in Elon. I’ve helped Elon a lot. He said the most beautiful things about me, and he hasn’t said bad about me personally, but I’m sure that’ll be next.” Trump also insinuated that Musk’s criticism of the bill was politically motivated and only surfaced after its passage, suggesting it stemmed from frustrations over cuts to electric vehicle (EV) subsidies. Musk, however, ...