Our King's Vision of GMC

 

Photo: gmc.bt

I am always amazed by the concept of Gelephu Mindfulness City (GMC) -the brainchild of our beloved king. 

What's so intriguing to me is the whole idea of this city but what it symbolizes for Bhutan and for each one of us-the future rooted in spirituality, sustainability and purposeful living. 

It's even more awe-inspiring to witness the architectural brilliance that's slowly beginning to shape this dream project. Among the many incredible designs, this aerial view or bird eye view of one side of the proposed city caught my heart so deeply. 

I can't just move on without a long stair to these images. The Education Centre and the Airport stand out with their stunning and timeless beauty, each space reflecting not just the modern elegance but the blend of traditional design, which I have long dreamt about. In many occasions, I have shared this with my Science Students -many of whom have gone to become architects and engineers, scattered across different parts of the country.

....

Unfolding a new era of learning - Part II

I had the opportunity to attend the Zoom session "Walk the Talk -02", with four insightful panelists, some seasoned researchers, others university lecturers. The session ran for nearly two hours, but every minute was worth it. 

I would like to believe that they are not only supporting aspiring PhD and Master's Research Candidates but also trying to build a vibrant research community where ideas, guidance and collaboration can thrive.  

Mr. Gopilal Acharya presented on "Academic Writing" and he covered pretty well the fundamentals of academic writing. 

Dr. Deki presented on "AI and Academic Writing". She emphasized that AI is a double-edged sword. While acknowledging its growing influence, she firmly warned us against using AI in any form of academic writing. Reliance on AI not only fosters dependency and laziness, but also diminishes creative thinking and originality. 

AT THE BEST, DON'T USE AI! 

Dr. Karma Tenzin, shared some "General Insights", in fact the whole process, drawn from his own experience.  I found some of his words genuinely encouraging. However, one particular piece of advice of finding a reliable "Study Partner/Study Buddy" was something EYE OPENING! 

Dr. Phuntsho Wangdi, gave us the consultation process and timely communication with supervisors and other research groups. 

My sincere thanks to the EduPlus Bhutan Journal team for organizing this session at a critical time. To make us feel that research journey is not so difficult, it all needs "passion, dedication, commitment, collaboration, critical thinking, attention to detail, etc, etc,,,"

Thank you for inspiring us!

Part I

Part -II

Disclaimer: These screenshots are taken from the presentation and are shared solely for my personal reference and record-keeping purposes.

A Mother is the first Teacher

Photo: HM's Official FB page

From the very first moment our beloved King announced the Gelephu Mindfulness City (GMC), I felt an overwhelming sense of hope and pride. 

It wasn't just another developmental project, it was a Royal dream for Bhutan's future. For me, it signified something much greater: the arrival of our "First World" experience, born from Bhutanese values and built on the foundations of mindfulness, sustainability and national unity.

I genuinely believe GMC will serve as a powerful gateway. A place where the world can experience Bhutan's unique philosophy of balancing development with nature. A space where we, as Bhutanese citizens, can learn, unlearn and rediscover how to live meaningfully and harmoniously.

Ever since the Royal announcement, I've been closely following the rapid developments taking place in and around Gelephu. There's a new energy in the air, a sense of purpose shared by every Bhutanese heart. It feels like the entire nation is coming together to honour this Royal assignment, contributing in every way possible to make this dream a reality.

As a citizen, I wanted to do my part — no matter how small. I chose to invest in ORO Bank shares, not only because of the promising annual return of 10%, but more importantly because I see it as a way to actively participate in nation building. I also contributed to the Gelephu Mindfulness City Nation Building Bond (GNBB). This wasn't an investment for profit, but a personal commitment to a future I want to be a part of.

These small contributions may seem modest, but to me, they carry deep meaning. One day, I'll proudly tell my children and grandchildren that I have a stake in this city, not just financially, but spiritually. A small part of me will forever live in Gelephu.

One of the most moving moments recently was the groundbreaking ceremony for the Gelephu International Airport (GIA). I followed every post, every image, every news. The designs by the world-renowned Bjarke Ingels Group (BIG) are breathtaking — a symbol of what's possible when bold vision meets cultural integrity. 

Yet, amid all the excitement and innovation, one photo stood out: a kupar of Her Majesty lovingly teaching Our Beloved Gyalseys how to hold a sickle and cut through bushes. That moment was simple, yet profoundly symbolic. It stirred something deep in me, a beautiful memory of my own childhood.

That image reminded me of something my own mother would have done. A gesture of guidance, patience and love. At that moment, I couldn't help but reflect - A mother truly is the first teacher of a child!

Curious, I turned to Google to validate this deep feeling. I was heartened to find that this belief is widely accepted around the world. As one source put it, "Yes, mothers are widely considered to be the first teachers of their children. From birth, they play a crucial role in shaping a child's development by providing care, guidance, and a foundation for learning."

It's a truth that rings across cultures, time and generations. And it's a truth I saw reflected in the royal image — a mother passing on not just knowledge, but values.

For me GMC is not just a city, it is a legacy in the making. And I am deeply grateful to play even the smallest part in it.

One day, when my children or grandchildren visit Gelephu and walk its roads, I will be able to say: "This city carries a part of me and a part of you, too."

The Reasons WHY I Admire these SIX Individuals

 If I may ever asked to pick top people, really off the top of my head, it will be these great individuals who are not just living/ed a life for them but to the world to look up to them. 

1. King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck (King of Bhutan)

Photo: Official FB Page of HM

Ever since His Majesty ascended the throne as the King of Bhutan, not a single day has passed without inspiring the nation to strive for more. He is truly the People's King — Oxford-educated, handsome, humble and visionary. His leadership extends beyond Bhutan; he stands as a guiding light for the world. 

2. His Holiness the 14TH Dalai Lama

Photo: The Office of His Holiness the Dalai Lama

His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama is a global symbol of Tibetan culture. He is the voice of Compassion, Knowledge, Empathy, Love and Kindness.

I see His Holiness as not a religious figure but as a person, so sweet, grounded, who is living as a supreme leader of millions around the world. We must learn the art of living a simple yet meaningful life.

The extraordinary life of His Holiness is so beautiful to watch and feel. To me, it always brings peace of mind and a humble life. I feel His Holiness is one of the most extraordinary people who have ever lived and walked on this planet. 

With His openness, love and compassion for all beings. I would like to think that the world has never seen someone like Him who embodies selflessness, love, compassion and wisdom.

As His Holiness turns 90, I wish His Holiness his long life. May he live many more years without any illnesses. Even more so, His Holiness continues the institution of the Dalai Lama. I would like to believe that He belongs to the world and this universe.

3. Prime Minister Lawrence Wong (Singapore)

Photo: tatlerasia page

Lawrence Wong is serving as the current PM of Singapore (204--). The country I admire for many great things, such as democratic transition, low corruption index, education, infrastructure and urban development.

I have seen him not long ago, but as soon as I saw him as the PM of Singapore, I felt so close to PM Wong for the fact that he appears calm with the great personality of a genuine human being, an extraordinary leader. The Harvard Kennedy School graduate is a multi-talented individual with the right skillset because, in the fast-changing world, we need leaders to have such genuineness and talents.  

I wish Mr. Wong could lead Singapore to greatness after a great succession of great leaders like LKY and his successors. I admire these individuals for the foundation they set, not just for Singaporeans, but for other nations to look up to for many things.

4. Volodymyr Zelenskyy (Ukraine) 

Photo: The Australian

Volodymyr Zelenskyy has served as the President of Ukraine since 2019. A law graduate who once made the world laugh through comedy and entertainment, he now leads his nation through one of its darkest hours of devastating war.

I deeply admire President Zelenskyy for his unwavering dedication, courage, and stamina. He is not just a leader, but a genius, a fighter, a symbol of hope, and a true role model. Many in his position might have fled, but he stayed — risking his own life to stand with his people. That alone speaks volumes about the kind of man he is.

What impresses me most is his stamina — his relentless pursuit of support from the international community to defend his country and his people. Some may call it desperation; I call it resilience and leadership. He leaves no stone unturned in his mission to protect Ukraine. 

This man is a true genius!

Since the first day of the war, I have followed the conflict between Russia and Ukraine closely. The loss of innocent lives, the destruction of cities and homes built with lifetime savings— is heartbreaking. Watching people lose everything in the blink of an eye is painful.

For a long time, I’ve felt that President Zelenskyy deserves the Nobel Peace Prize — not just for his fight, but for what he symbolizes: bravery, unity and hope in the face of overwhelming adversity

5. Frank lloyd Wright

Photo: ArchEyes

Frank Lloyd Wright, the iconic American architect, designer, writer and educator (google) — has always been someone I deeply admire.

Let me share why.

During my high school days, while studying Computer Science (Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics and Computer Applications), I'd one big dream: to become an urban planner. Sadly, that dream never materialized. Life took a different turn and I found myself stepping into the world of education becoming an IT and Chemistry teacher instead.

Though I'm no longer in the system, I take great pride in what I accomplished during my time as a schoolteacher. I had the privilege of serving two beautiful schools (Zhemgang CS and Damphu CS), where I wore many hats and engaged with students from diverse backgrounds.

Indeed, teaching Chemistry to the finest brains (science students) of the school was one of the most fulfilling parts of my job. I was entrusted with preparing future architects and engineers, doctors and teachers for the national exams and I did so with passion and discipline. 

As always I made it a point to be ultra-punctual, always entering and leaving the classroom on time, with very few exceptions. I believed that if I wanted my students to be responsible citizens, I had to role model those values myself.

What stood closest to my heart, however, was a dream I couldn't fulfill becoming an urban planner or architect. But I found joy in sharing that dream with my students. 

I often spoke to them about my passion for design and urban development. I talked about the marvels of the modern world like Abu Dhabi’s skyline, Marina Bay Sands, the Eiffel Tower and I would ask: Why can't Bhutan have its own blend of traditional and modern architecture against their name? 

I encouraged them to think bigger, to become the designers, architects and engineers who would reimagine Bhutan's future infrastructure.

And that's where Frank Lloyd Wright comes in.

I admire Wright not just for his genius, but for how he transformed the very idea of what architecture could be. His work is not merely about buildings it's about harmony between nature, design and human life. And more importantly, his concept of "Organic". I've watched several documentaries on his creations and the philosophy behind them. "Fallingwater" is one that truly captivated me, a breathtaking blend of form and environment. I hope to visit it in person someday.

I have a deep love for architecture and built environments. Like Wright, I dream of a Bhutan where innovation meets tradition, where the next generation, perhaps some of my own former students, rise to build structures that inspire the world.

That is my hope. And that is why I admire Frank Lloyd Wright.

6. Steve Jobs 

Photo: Vox web

Steve Jobs was the man behind the iPhone and Mac. Perhaps, he was one of the greatest minds the world has ever known. 

A true technology genius, he didn't just invent products; he created the future. His work made technology not only powerful, but also beautifully simple, so elegant in design and experience that people instantly fall in love in one touch.

Today, Apple has become more than just a brand. It's a symbol of innovation, luxury and trust.

Steve Jobs gave the world a device that feels almost magical, something that connects us, entertains us, supports our work and keeps us organized, all with a touch. 

I still remember the moment I first used an iPhone, a black iPhone 7 back in early 2019. That was it. I was hooked. Since then, I've become a loyal Apple user for two simple reasons: timeless design and incredibly smooth performance.

By some grace of luck, I've been using a MacBook Air (2015) since 2019, and in 2023, I upgraded to an iPhone 14 Pro. These devices are more than tools, they are experiences. I simply love them.

Wherever you are, I hope you can feel the appreciation from millions like me. Your creation have changed the world of technology.

As iPhone has become a status symbol, it even did not spare my mom falling for this phone, someday she wants to own one. 

Thank you, Steve Jobs. 

King Address to The Future of Bhutan -to the Gyalsups

 28 June 2025

The first cohort of the 2025 Gyalsung batch successfully completed their three-month National Service training today. Passing Out Parades (POP) were held simultaneously at the four Gyalsung Academies in Pemathang, Gyalpozhing, Khotokha, and Jamtsholing.

His Majesty The King graced the Passing Out Parade in Pemathang, Samdrup Jongkhar, and addressed Gyalsups across all four academies.

His Majesty thanked the Gyalsups and their families for their unwavering support and enthusiasm for the programme, and the Armed Forces for their hard work and dedication to make the training a success.

His Majesty also thanked the Government of India, the Indian Army, and Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, for their continued support, which has enabled Gyalsung to grow into the institution it was envisioned to be.

His Majesty spoke to the Gyalsups about the strategies we must employ as a small landlocked nation to achieve our aspirations.

"A single bee may be just an insect, but a hive, moving with discipline and purpose, is a force to be reckoned with. Bees that move together in a swarm cannot be taken for granted. They punch above their weight, and command respect," His Majesty said. "Hives are adaptive, resilient, agile and swift. They think together, act together, work together. The hive strategy will determine our success."

His Majesty said that since we are 700,000 people in a world of 8 billion, we must be exceptionally unique.

"If the world around us is becoming less trusting, we must become trustworthy. If unkindness, selfishness and corruption are on the rise, we must embody kindness and integrity. If there's a lack of collaboration, coordination, inertia— if there is red tape, bureaucracy, institutional paralysis, then we reverse-engineer it. We are a hardworking, pragmatic, sensible, and united people. The smartest thing to do is to leverage on who we are and who we want to become. That's how you stand out," His Majesty said.

His Majesty told the Gyalsups that everything that is being done—from the Gyalsung programme to national investments—is for the youth, so they are prepared, empowered, and able to succeed.

His Majesty reminded the Gyalsups that the road ahead would not be easy, but this is our only opportunity to shape the future our extraordinary country deserves.

"Our future generations deserve nothing but the best. We are going to offer them a secure home—one they can always feel proud of. That responsibility, for better or for worse, falls on our generation," His Majesty said.

A total of 2,639 young men and women completed the training, including 56 individuals who returned from overseas—Australia, India, Thailand, and the United States—to take part. With their completion, the total number of trained Gyalsups has reached 6,330, including the two cohorts of the 2024 batch.

The integrated training program included Basic Military Training—such as physical fitness, obstacle courses, and weapon handling—along with sessions on national education, Bhutanese history, domestic security, Choesay Layrim, and leadership development.

Gyalsung, Bhutan’s National Service, is a constitutional duty of every citizen, enshrined in Article 8.1. It was announced by His Majesty The King on Bhutan’s 112th National Day in 2019 as a visionary initiative to empower young Bhutanese to contribute meaningfully to the nation’s peace, unity, and progress.

Gyalsups from earlier cohorts have already served in national projects and international relief efforts, including the humanitarian mission to assist earthquake-hit communities in Myanmar in March 2025.

My Say:

As I read carefully through each line of HM's address to our Gyalsups, few things really struck me hard. The unprecedented care of His Majesty to Bhutan and Bhutanese, to his nation, it's nothing more like it. Wisdom of His Majesty is more vast than the size and depth of the ocean, and I wish there is anyone more concerned for his people. The energy and passion of His Majesty is over the universe and to be and have such a level is extraordinary.

I wish each one of us, every single Bhutanese must acquire the ability and goodness like His Majesty. Therefore, this is a moment for us to think, reflect and work hand in hand for the future of Bhutan.

We are lucky in so many ways to be a BHUTANESE!

Thank you, your Majesty for so a beautiful and eye opening wisdom.

Photo: HM Addressing to our Gyalsups

Photo: Our Gyalsup in making

Photo: Parent, both old and young 

Declaimer: This speech and photographs are copied for the purpose of my future reference from the official FB page of His Majesty. 

The Inevitable

 

Source: HM's Official FB Page

12th June, 2025

The recent Air India crash taking away precious lives, family, friends and relatives, all gone in ashes. 

However, there are always prayers from a Tiny Country - BHUTAN and this is how I share my condolences with affected families and friends. 

It is an extremely sad moment not just for India, but to the whole world of such unprecedented loss. 

A symbol of love and loyalty

"A guy is so skilled. He brought a RAM truck to surprise his dad. A man who always dreams of owning one but brand new RAM is way out of his budget. 

So, he went to an auction and found an old dusty one that most people would pass on. It wasn't black, shiny or new. In fact, it looked like it had been through tough years on roads. But, he saw more than rusts and dents. To him it was a project with purpose. 

He brought it home and started rebuilding it from the frame up, putting in hours each day fixing what was broken, replacing what was missing and adding touches his dad would love. 

Every turn of the wrench. Every coat of paint, and every detail is a quiet promise to give his father something special. 

He's not just restoring a truck. He's restoring a dream and the most exciting part is –his dad still doesn't know. So, when he finally hands over those keys, how do you think he will react?"

....

I found this short narration touching and beautiful of a true father-son bond -the quiet hope a father carries that one day his son will care for him through life’s difficult moments, especially in old age.

When I look back on my own life, what touches me most is the unwavering love of our parents. They sacrifice so much, shielding us from the harshness of the world, guiding us toward the right path, and providing us with the best they can—be it food, clothes, or comfort. 

All of it, done selflessly, with the hope that when they grow old and vulnerable, we will be there to support and care for them in return.

For every single parent, what they hope is, their children become good human beings. Serve the nation with loyalty, dedication and raise another great generation. The question is, are we really nurturing another generation of loving human beings!. 

I hope this story is true and not just a fictional one.  

 

 

Goodbye King Kevin De Bruyne

Source: Transfer market.com

As an avid Manchester City FC fan for over a decade, I feel compelled to put into words my admiration for one of my all-time favourite players – King Kevin De Bruyne.

My journey as a City fan began even before Kevin joined the club. I remember watching every match, week after week, during the golden years of legends like Kompany, Silva, Nasri, Lampard and of course Aguero. These players not only made football thrilling to watch, but they also instilled in me a deep love and respect for the game.

Through them, I learned more than just football. I learned about dedication, commitment, passion and the value of time –lessons that go beyond the pitch and into real life.

Then came Kevin De Bruyne. Watching him play from the very beginning of his City career has been nothing short of inspirational. 

His vision, creativity and leadership grew match by match and with every pass, every goal, he made the game look like art. His assists, often bordering on the magical, were unmatched. Perhaps, he made football easy and beautiful to watch.

I always looked forward to the weekends just to see the City match and especially Kevin. Knowing he was on the pitch always used to give me confidence because when Kevin plays, something special used to always happen.

If there's one player I admire just second to the great Messi, it's De Bruyne.

Some of my favourite memories involve intense Champions League battles with Real Madrid, Premier League clashes with Liverpool, Arsenal and of course, Manchester United. 

But one moment stands above the rest is the unforgettable comeback against Aston Villa to win the Premier League title. I've watched that full match and its highlights more times than I can count.

Link: https://www.premierleague.com/video/single/3055665?FOOTBALL_CLUBS=11

Thank you, Kevin, for making football beautiful. You have inspired a generation and for fans like me, you have made every minute of the game worth watching.

Millions of City fans around the globe would simply miss you and your magical assist on the right spot. There is nothing more you can do than the moment you created in Etihad Stadium. 

Link:https://www.mancity.com/citytv/mens/kevin-de-bruyne-king-kev-hero-video-63883357

Link:https://www.transfermarkt.com/assist-king-de-bruyne-how-his-unrivalled-creativity-has-led-man-citys-charge-in-europe/view/news/433906

Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jgn-CLO0FGw

Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Mxc7M2IsUWU

Unfolding a new era of learning

All by sheer luck, I came across a LinkedIn post by one of the panel members announcing an online webinar session "walk-in-talk: Fundamentals of research," on 15th of May by Bhutan Insights, an educational journal. 

This came at a critical time when I was closely eyeing or simply gearing up to polish my research knowledge before actually taking up the course. 

Research is the field I was deeply passionate about for a long time, but somehow I was left behind for some reasons. Maybe altogether, it has waited for this perfect coincidence. 

I took no chance to escape this golden opportunity for this one-hour session to know first-hand information from some of the research enthusiasts/someone who has made a career out of it and that too are our local friends. 

Having studied some units, attended university symposiums and conducted action research back in school, I had already gained a fair amount of knowledge and experience in the field. However, making a moment to listen to these groups of experts sharing their experiences would immensely enlighten my perspective about research. 

I've long been interested in this field because it gives weight when one talks with real facts and figures rather than just quoting some assumptions. 

On some good days, or when I was in a good mood, having to conduct research always struck my mind and stayed for a couple of days and slowly vanished. In this way for these many years, it never had materialized. Perhaps, it was all in my dreams!

Now having listened to first-hand researchers, their words of encouragement made me one step closer to undertake some research work. With all my commitment and interest, I'd be able to produce some papers in the future. It greatly relieved me when the panel members openly shared that they also started like any one of us and getting to know that research work is no different to other study has come as a big relief. 

I was made to believe that with a little bit of self-discipline and commitment are the stepping stone to achieving my research dream. It was so humbling to know that they have many future plans for the success of this newfound online journal for all of us. 

I wish the steps taken by these groups of friends would deeply inspire the next generation of ultra thinking minds, who can pass down great legacy to our future generation. I wish everyone who is trying to be part of this journey would become a contributory citizen, a great thinking society because I believe research gives anyone a space to explore and think beyond normal. 

 

Recently, I shared this little anecdote with one of my cousins. 

"What if we had our own Bhutanese platforms to put up our local research work? This could inspire aspiring academics, support national development and bring some fresh ideas to the education sector. Building our future on facts and figures, not on assumptions requires a strong research culture. To create a wiser, more matured and informed society, we must live and breathe research in everything we do."

Like the one we had for a long hour discussion, it came as a dream for me even if I won't be able to put up any of my work soon, but it can surely create space for other people to write some new academic ideas for our future. 

I'd deeply appreciate the hard work and vision put forward by these groups of researchers and academicians. For me this space is a dream beyond the limit of the Sky and the Earth. 

Thank you!

These are a few slides I captured from the online session for my future references. 

Disclaimer: The information and slides presented here were captured during an online session solely for my personal reference and not for any other purpose.