Tough Question on the Future of AI

What can one accomplish in just ten minutes? Quite a lot. In that time frame, ideas can be pitched and history can shift course.

For our team, ten minutes was all we had to present the results of an intensive three-month capstone project—an evaluation of AI’s effectiveness in raising landslide awareness in Bhutanese schools through real-world case analysis.

During the presentation, one question from the panel member stayed with me: 

“How would our group advise others on the future use of AI?”

One of my teammates responded on our behalf, but due to the time limit, we weren’t able to express everything we wanted to say.

That question lingered in my mind, prompting me to reflect not just on the project, but on my personal journey with artificial intelligence (AI) and where I believe we are collectively headed.

There is no denying that AI is growing at an unprecedented pace. It is no longer a niche interest but becoming a main force across industries from education and healthcare to communication, logistics and creativity. It is being rapidly adopted, deeply integrated and quietly redefining how we think, work and live. In many ways, AI is becoming a digital lifeline. It is not just here for now; it is here to stay, forever.

My own experience with AI began in early 2023. Out of curiosity, I tried ChatGPT for the first time and asked it to write a poem about my wife. Within seconds, it generated a beautiful and thoughtful piece. I was amazed but hesitant. I feared that depending on AI might hinder my creativity and imagination, so I made a conscious choice not to use it further.

When I began my higher study later that year, I committed to completing all my assignments without the help of any AI tools. I followed the traditional ways I had always relied on, writing and researching independently.

My first semester went smoothly and I stayed disciplined. However, I couldn’t help but notice that some of my classmates got good grades. Curious, I asked how they approached their assignments. Many admitted they used AI tools like ChatGPT to brainstorm, refine ideas or polish their writing.

This revelation forced me to reflect deeply. Should I continue to avoid AI out of principle, or should I reconsider? Was I at risk of becoming obsolete by refusing to adapt like so many once-prominent brands that faded into irrelevance after failing to evolve? Nokia, BlackBerry, Kodak, Yahoo each serves as a reminder of what happens when innovation is met with resistance.

Eventually, I chose to adapt, but on my own terms.

I decided to use AI tools purposefully on one condition. My personal rule is clear: I first write everything myself starting from drafting ideas, reflecting on lessons learned and crafting my thoughts. Only after that I turn to AI for grammar checks, clarity, structure or suggestions for improvement or for the generation of better ideas. This way, I keep using my thinking power and put my brain muscle in use and AI serves as a help, not a substitute.

So, how should we approach AI in the long run? Should we embrace it fully, or avoid it altogether? The answer lies in striking a thoughtful balance. There is no definite rule to use it. One can use it anyway, but using it in the best human way will be productive.

Over-reliance on AI can weaken our critical thinking and suppress creativity. But total avoidance risks leaving us behind in a rapidly changing world. The key is responsible adaptation leveraging AI to enhance, not replace, human potential.

This also raises another important question: how do we educate the next generation to use AI effectively and ethically?

We must not allow our children to be passive consumers of AI, shaped by algorithms they don't understand. Instead, we must teach them how to use these tools wisely and intentionally. AI should not control us; it should empower us. If used responsibly, it can make our work fast, efficient and productive without stripping away the human element.

The pace of change is rapid and we are at a turning point. Whether we like it or not, we are part of a technological revolution that will define the future.

To thrive in this future, we must approach AI with openness, adaptability and a strong foundation of human values. This is not a time to look back. 

Perhaps, it's time to move forward with clarity, balance and purpose.

Reflecting on a Decade of Service in Education

On March 16, I formally tendered my voluntary resignation, stepping down from my post as a schoolteacher. Writing that letter was an emotional moment filled with uncertainty and deep reflection. Yet it offered a chance to look back on a decade of purpose, growth and service within Bhutan’s education system.

My journey began on February 15, 2013, in one of Bhutan’s most remote districts—Zhemgang. Fresh out of college, I was young, determined and slightly apprehensive. But I stepped into the classroom driven by a single conviction: to make a meaningful difference.

In Bhutan, schools are more than institutions, they are sacred spaces of transformation. When I joined Zhemgang Central School (ZCS), I did so with the hope of nurturing young minds and growing alongside them. The early days were challenging. Adjusting to the civil service, understanding school culture and living up to the expectations of being a role model demanded deep self-awareness.

Every word and action of a teacher is watched with hope and trust. I tried to meet that responsibility with great humility –remaining disciplined, punctual and mindful in all that I did. Over the next eight years, I chose not just to stay in one of Bhutan’s remotest schools – I chose to engage both within and beyond the school campus. I became a mentor, guide and in many cases, a guardian to students who gathered with hope and aspiration.

I owe much of my growth to Principal Rinzin Namgyal, whose compassionate leadership helped shape my professional outlook. Alongside dedicated colleagues and disciplined students, I found purpose and strength in a shared journey of learning.

In 2021, I transferred to Damphu Central School (DCS) –my alma mater. Returning as a teacher to the very classrooms I once sat in was both surreal and humbling. At DCS, I worked with a great team of educators and students from all walks of life. Each moment on campus left a lasting impression.

A highlight of my time at DCS was participating in the Bhutan Baccalaureate (BB) initiative under The Druk Gyalpo’s Institute. As the lead for the “Emotional Domain,” I witnessed first hand a shift in Bhutan’s education system that focused on holistic, student-centered learning. The experience was among the most defining of my career.

Outside the classroom, I embraced multiple roles: curriculum developer, test developer, examiner, club coordinator, Head of Department and media coordinator. Among the projects closest to my heart was the successful installation of a SkyHydrant water filtration system at ZCS. Carried out in collaboration with the Rotary Club of Thimphu and Aue Yeshey Dorji, this clean water initiative remains a source of pride especially as it later inspired similar projects in schools across Bhutan.

In April 2023, I took Extraordinary Leave (EOL) to pursue higher studies in Australia. The decision came with a lot of emotional cost –most profoundly, leaving behind my two young children who remained in Bhutan with family.

Perhaps, I have spent some of my best years in a far remote corner of Zhemgang educating and embracing both challenges and opportunities.

Across eight years at ZCS and three fulfilling years at DCS, I found not only a career, but a deep sense of nation calling. Resigning was not a decision I made lightly. It emerged from personal obligations and long-term aspirations. But as I submitted my resignation, I reminded myself that service to education need not end with a job title.

Though no longer in the classroom, I carry the lessons, the relationships and the purpose with me. I move forward with pride, knowing I served the nation “Tsa-Wa-Sum” with utmost integrity and great dedication.

The questions will stay with me: Have I done enough? Was I worthy? But perhaps, it is in these reflections that I still continue to think about Bhutan’s progress in education and development.

The classroom doors may have closed behind me, but the conversations never stopped. I still engage meaningfully with students and teacher colleagues—sharing, listening and learning from each other. "Once a teacher, always a teacher" isn't just a phrase. It's a quiet truth I continue to live by.

The Call for Exceptional School Leaders

Source: SCAS Connections

Leadership plays a role in nearly every part of our daily lives. Whether it’s a small group or a large institution, having a good leader makes all the difference.

Without someone to guide, inspire, and lead the way, progress is hard to come by. I have always felt that one of the most important places where leadership truly matters is the school.

Schools bring together a wide range of people –tiny toddlers just starting out, curious students, mid-career educators, seasoned teachers, and professionals with all levels of experience.

And we can’t forget the families and communities that surround them. All of these people look to the school for direction and hope. Because we believe school is a temple and everyone who goes to this place comes out wise and nonetheless, a good human being.

In such a rich and diverse setting, good leadership is essential. A great school leader can spark inspiration, encourage growth, and set the tone for an environment where everyone –from students to staff –can work and coexist together. For many students, the school leader becomes a lifelong role model, shaping how they see the world.

The classroom may seem small, but it’s where the foundation of a nation is built. When we have strong, visionary leaders in schools, we are not just teaching lessons –we are preparing future leaders. Each student who leaves school carries with them the values, confidence, and direction that began with someone who believed in them, every day of the week.

I have met many young professionals with the heart and talent to lead. It’s time to tap those minds into education. If we are serious about building a better future, we need to prioritize schools –and that starts by making sure they are led by the very best.

Leadership isn’t just about principals or teachers, either. Every staff member, regardless of background or education, plays a part. And it’s the leader’s job to bring them all together, to create unity, purpose, and pride in their work.

Perhaps, investing in great school leaders is expensive. But failing to invest in them is even more costly.

 

Building Knowledge, One at a Time - Part II

 

Source: Samuel Spencer, PPT Slides

One of the most fascinating things I came across in this lecture was a slide discussing “the future trends in data and why documentation remains more important than Artificial Intelligence (AI). But what struck me the most was how this slide encouraged me to think beyond the obvious.

The moment I saw it, I couldn’t stop analyzing it—processing each detail, trying to understand the connection between the topic and the three images on the slide. As a photographer, I found each picture visually striking, and they sparked deeper thoughts and emotions, from simple observations to more complex reasoning.

The Clock at 8:13

The first image showed a wall clock displaying 8:13. At first look, it's just a clock on a wall, symmetrical and visually appealing. But when AI was asked to generate an image of a clock at 8:13, it created one showing 10:10 instead. Why? Because clock manufacturers typically set their product images to 10:10—it makes the clock hands look balanced and aesthetically pleasing. AI, lacking its own understanding or real-world context, followed the pattern it had learned instead of fulfilling the exact request.

The Half-Filled Wine Glass

The second image was of a half-filled glass of wine, even though the prompt was for a full glass. Again, AI didn’t truly comprehend the request because it doesn’t have its own context—it just generates what it thinks is the best match based on available data. Interestingly, when I searched for "wine glass" images on Google, almost all of them showed half-filled glasses. Why? Because in photography and society, a half-filled glass is seen as a responsible way to present wine—it looks elegant and balanced in composition. A full glass, on the other hand, is rarely photographed, as it doesn’t carry the same aesthetic or cultural meaning.

The Room Without an Elephant

The last image was more philosophical. The AI was given a prompt for a room without an elephant, and it generated... just a regular room. Of course, almost every room in the world doesn’t have an elephant in it, so taking a photo of one seems pointless. AI simply followed logic, assuming the most obvious solution. But from a photographic view, the image was well-framed, with a thoughtful arrangement of objects—exactly how a human photographer would compose a shot.

The Bigger Lesson

This experience taught me something profound: thinking beyond the obvious is essential. There are endless possibilities and perspectives, and while AI is improving rapidly, documentation remains critical. AI only learns from existing patterns—it doesn’t truly understand meaning the way humans do. That’s why proper documentation and human reasoning will always be more important than AI-generated information.

I shall continue to put down my thoughts and feelings through my writing on this page.

 

Building Knowledge, One at a Time

Source: Scholarship Positions

I had yet another insightful and eye-opening learning experience during a guest lecture session for my ITS-Capstone Project, featuring Samuel Spencer, CEO of Aristotle Metadata. One of the most rewarding aspects of studying at a university with strong ties to industry partners and business associations is the opportunity to learn directly from experts who have navigated real-world challenges. It's a mutual exchange, give and take —universities produce a skilled workforce, while industries provide invaluable exposure and opportunities for students.

One of the best ways to understand the realities of the job market is by listening to influential leaders, CEOs, and entrepreneurs. These are the individuals who have worked relentlessly, experimented with various ideas, encountered failures, yet persisted with unwavering determination. Their experiences offer lessons far beyond textbooks—they embody the resilience and innovation crucial for nation-building and personal growth.

Building Your Fundamental Foundation

What resonated with me the most from Samuel Spencer’s talk was his concept of "Building Your Fundamental Foundation." He drew a compelling analogy between software development and carpentry, asking whether carpentry is an art. His point was that software, much like carpentry, is both an art and a craft, requiring patience, dedication, and continuous improvement. His advice was simple yet profound: find a technology you enjoy, practice it repeatedly, and master it over time.

It was inspiring to hear how Samuel himself followed this principle, refining his skills through trial, error, and persistence, ultimately leading to the creation of his own successful software company.

Volunteer, Learn, and Practice

I was particularly drawn to his emphasis on three key principles: Volunteer, Learn, and Practice. These words struck a chord with me because I have personally experienced the power of volunteering in shaping both professional and personal growth.

As a school teacher, I have engaged with local communities, helping them tackle everyday challenges. These experiences have strengthened my understanding of work ethics, professionalism, and social responsibility, shaping me into a more resilient and adaptable individual. Volunteering is more than just giving back—it's an opportunity to learn, unlearn, and relearn, providing a real-world platform for experimenting with new ideas and honing essential life skills.

Even after the lecture ended, the phrase "volunteer, learn, and practice" stayed with me. It reinforced the belief that success doesn't happen overnight—it's built through continuous perseverance, self-improvement, and a commitment to lifelong learning. 

Perhaps, this session was a powerful reminder to stay curious, dedicated, and open to growth.

FDI in Education Sector

Source: Kuensel Page

Our National paper "Kuensel" editorial on date: August 21, 2024 made an interesting cover on "Second attempt at FDI". It immediately caught my attention, prompting me to share some pressing concerns I have had for a while as a concerned citizen.

The editorial effectively discussed where, how, and when FDI should enter Bhutan and emphasized why it is crucial for our nation—a thought-provoking perspective.

However, a few key points made me reconsider: Is FDI only about improving the ease of doing business? How often do we hear the government talk about creating a conducive environment through policies, plans, and projects? 

In my view, FDI is highly risky and potentially hazardous if not handled with careful consideration. What happened with the Japanese Grant Aid for constructing bridges and other essential infrastructure? What have we learned from this project and the Japanese approach to building a secure and stronger nation? Did we learn how to construct a beautiful Japanese-style bridge after decades of their guidance?

I believe FDI is critical, but it must be managed with meticulous planning and the right mindset, led by dedicated and patriotic individuals. If not, we risk fading Bhutan's reputation.

I have long advocated for FDI in our education sector—not extensively, but at least to establish a few primary and high schools that can demonstrate the importance of education. I can see a lot of opportunities for both the parties, more importantly it will immensely benefit our children and community. We must forge a path of openness and embrace change; otherwise, I don't see a bright future and a changing Bhutan anytime soon. If anything is to succeed, education must be the foundation—if education thrives, nothing else will fail!

I hope to witness some world-class changes in our education sector during my generation, including improvements in curriculum, human resources, and infrastructure. Although we are gradually advancing with initiatives like the Royal Academy in Pangbesa and Jigme Singye Wangchuck School of Law, we need a few exemplary model schools.

These Royal Dream Projects align with my long-held vision for education. I have always wished for our students to attend the best schools with brilliant minds, dynamic curricula, and world-class infrastructure and facilities that enhance not just learning but also foster personal growth. Attending school is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity because we cannot relive our youth, and what happens during this stage is a golden opportunity that will shape the rest of our lives. Otherwise, it's missed forever, infinitively.

I hope our visionary leaders will prioritize FDI in the Education Sector like any other sectors that are looking forward to generating funds. There is no doubt that other sectors can and will have their turn, but let's make our education sector attractive so that those who come out from it are well-prepared to serve the nation. I feel this is perhaps how a nation is built on shared ideas. 

Faces Around The Egg Hunt At Galileo EL

Note: All the photographs are for my professional records and not for any other reasons. Also love for the kids and photography. 

The Unbreakable Bond -Part II

Greeting Sir, 

Plato was right.,. He said be kind, for everyone you meet is fighting a harder battle. And I find this true now.. 

Life begins at the end of your comfort zone... I used to ignore this before when someone used to lecture me most probably with a good intention but it's only now that I found it to be true.... 

Life as I known now is a journey with numerous expeditions, all ups and downs...  Which none can avoid to face with an expectation that coming days will be better...

Have a nice day, sir

----------------------

The Unbreakable Bond

Greeting Sir, 

...but aren't in a position to understand our situation, and are blackmailing now and then because the exam is just around 15 days away. I'm trying my best to get what I can. And what I've aimed at. Something that I've dreamed about...

Seeking a few words from you before I sit for an exam next week sir,...

With regards

 ---------------------

Hello Arjun 

 

Kangaroos on highways are killed without much pity. I was trying hard to understand the cause of their dreadful death. Perhaps, the only penalty free kill for drivers. Rest everything is costly.

 

I was commenting on my cousin -who shared about "does and joeys" shared on his fb page. As much as we human beings show love and affection for each other, the innocent animals have the same affection and family bonding. And it's truly amazing to watch such a beautiful moment in an animal kingdom like our world.

 

Arjun...the point I would like you to understand is; it must be because your teachers and school know you have the capabilities to shine and show to the world that you can do well. Every parent’s dream is to see their kids doing well in life, no matter what maybe the circumstances. I think your teachers and school have a lot of trust in you for you have the academic knack. Maybe for these reasons, they must be pushing you so hard that you can keep the school's name ever high. Please take it positively!

 

Do you know how many times I have felt bad for leaving behind my two beautiful and innocent, very innocent kids far away, just to fulfill some silly promises of securing their future with dollars? Perhaps, it's one irreplaceable time with my kids, EVER.

 

Lately, I know how difficult it is to be in foreign land. Everything around is new and strange. Every job is not easy, it needs a lot of sacrifice, determination, hard work, and highest integrity. You never feel home. There is no space to argue.

 

I don't know how many times I have felt unwelcome in the workplace for constantly standing for long hours, people don't feel pity on you. This is life here in a developed country, perhaps our dream land! 

 

The country is great as it was built on shared trust, hard work and vision. People are amazing. They have everything in place. As expected, their work mentality is so tough, they can work long hours, most of the services go 24/7 hours, this is how a country is built. They are honest. They don't know how to manipulate bills. They are straight. There is no room for favoritism, or nepotism. I don't see visible dividing lines between rich and poor. Even the janitor can drive the same car. Live in the same apartment. Shop in the same mall. Eat at the same restaurant, or a café.

 

There is no free lunch in life. We must learn to live by hardship if we ever would like to see better days tomorrow. Therefore, my guess would be no different from your teachers because they are aware of both hard days and good days. They must have found ‘Ter’ (hidden treasure) in you. They must have seen something special in you. So, they are nagging you to squeeze your real academic gift. Just give it a try!

 

Shakespeare said, "expectation is the root of all heartache". True to this fact, I have died so many times being in his words. I'm someone who expects so much from others because I work so hard. For that reason, I'm honest, I ended up hurting myself.

 

Make your life tough. You will enjoy later that you have so much to talk about your own life. You make history. I know you have the capabilities, the God-gift academic merit. If you can't, who else can? Please give it a try. After all, it's just for you and not for anybody else. Not even to your own parents and loved ones. It ultimately benefits you, only you!

 

Someday, when you cross over all these hard times, you have history to share with everyone around. 

 

I've completed my 1st semester of my higher studies. 3 more to go. And I know it will not be an easy game, nor will it keep me at peace. But I also know it will benefit me immensely for the rest of my life. 

 

It's difficult to maintain a heavy syllabus. I need to balance everything. Work. Study. Exam. Test. Assignments. Presentation. And many other demands to fulfil in a dream land. Sometimes, I feel so funny that I've studied so hard that I could at least share my education for a car wash and cleaning company both as a cleaner. Funny, but this is the reality of life. So long you can work well that's fine here, no qualification, or decorated background is required of us, however, if we have it, it's an added advantage. We just need to be performing and resilient. Hardworking at workplaces. 

 

I'm currently working in three jobs. Car company as car washer. Restaurant cleaner. And after school hours, educator. I am happy that I am spending quality time because I am paid hourly and there is no compromise, anyway possible.

 

I finally knew how to sweat and squeeze blood to hardship, as the power of $ is immense. $ is attractive. $ is so nice. $ is life. And $ is crazy!

 

Finally, I wanted to write more but I've to wake up early for my morning work that starts at 7 am. Another at 3pm and last at 9 pm …

 

My lunch box is ready outside in my roommate's fridge. My rusty boot is polished and dried. My black faded jacket is hanging behind the door. My socks are a few meters away for a quick grab. My car key is near the door for an easy pick. And I have my alarm bell set for 6:13am.

 

Funny, I lost the sense of looking in the mirror because I don't know when was the last time I washed my face. 

 

Haha… life is hard, and very funny…

 

Bye

 

 

Ms. Sarah, the Leader from Another World

 

Good Morning Sarah, 

Thank you for hosting me and sharing with me your lovely afternoon yesterday to discuss many beautiful journeys of yours. It was truly amazing to listen to you. You have opened me up in many ways and I will surely keep all those discussions archived in my diary. 

Thank you once again.

Secondly, I was so happy to meet your esteemed team members, especially Mr. Sonam who shared with me many good things happening in the center. It was a brief but eye-opening session. 

Thank you for the chance.

I have promised you heaven and hope I can prove you right in times to come. Thank you for listening to my side of the education story. 

I felt both of us share many similar dreams and a passion for education. It worth all my afternoon to meet a person of your vision and experience. Thank you for sharing your story, the journey of your education, training, and many more.

I wish I can listen to more of your journey in times to come. 

It would be too early to promise everything, however, I would like to work for you and love to learn many unpacked childhood education journeys from you and the team. 

Kind Regards

Sancha 

Unveiling Teacher Agendas for the New Education Minister

As the torch of leadership in the Ministry of Education and Skills Development is now formally passed down to new management, the time is now for a revolutionary agenda that transcends the conventional. In my vision for the future, I present a condensed plan to redefine education, assessment, aesthetics, and holistic development at the forefront.

Assessment?

The cornerstone of my agenda for education lies in the reformation of the assessment system. I advocate for a fair and inclusive evaluation process that goes beyond standardized testing. What can we do more than solely rely on exam scores? Can we give a little more space than the typical means to judge different students?

By incorporating diverse assessment methods, including project-based evaluations, practical assessments, continuous feedback, and topic-wise assessment, we can honor the unique strengths of every student. This shift towards fairness ensures that no learner is left behind, fostering an educational environment that values the individual journey of each student. Let's not depend upon the face value of Dorji, Tashi, and Sonam. I wish we could have a system of grade systems of A+, A, or B, something holistic rather than mere reflection of marks. It does more harm than good. 


Better Primary Schools

The foundation of a strong education system rests upon the quality of primary schools combined with early childhood education. My agenda involves a focus on enhancing primary education by investing in the finest infrastructure, passionate teachers, and a flexible curriculum. Creating an environment that nurtures curiosity, creativity, and critical thinking at the primary level and early childhood education sets the stage for lifelong learning and success. And if any education system fails to connect these two dots, no education system will succeed. 


Redesigning Hostels?

I hope I am fortunate with unending cash flow. One thing I wish to change is the hostel design and facilities. Our hostels are barely a structure with nothing of modern touches. 

I shared my concern and design of how our hostel should look like with the necessary facilities to someone who claimed to be the Ministry's Chief Engineer some years back in person but nothing has changed. I don't know how much change we are thinking in designing modern structures with Bhutanese touches.  I believe Hostel life is an integral part of the educational experience and the ones who take hostel journeys are usually less fortunate to be with their parents. Our hostels need a series of changes to both interior and exterior touches with good facilities and natural landscaping so that our students will have a good time and feel at home and safe. 

We don't want a washroom 100m away and water tape in another location. By embracing sustainable architecture, incorporating a lot of green spaces, facilities for snacks, coffee, eatery, and sports, and fostering a sense of community, hostels become not just places of residence but environments that inspire growth, and a connection with nature. 

Tailored School Designs for Different Class Levels?

I may sound a little odd but I am being blind honest about how we can pass the new design of primary schools to be the same as higher secondary schools. The needs are different. The kids are different. Therefore, I believe the approach of our school design should also change. 

Recognizing the diverse needs of students at different class levels, my agenda calls for customized school designs is a serious matter to think about and give a try. Higher secondary schools, for instance, should have standard classroom heights of 8ft, or 9 ft or more. I don't know how many copy paste designs are happening?

I am still wondering why footsteps and toilets are large, why not interview, survey, or seek suggestions from small kids about what and how they want their classrooms and schools to look like? The answer is not in the air, but in our young children, they are the world, they have to validate the progress, and they are the ones who would be using, this I believe is how we build a great nation. Aesthetic view is another aspect we have forgotten long ago, we have never cared about how a beautiful campus is associated with good learning. Tailoring the physical environment to the developmental stage of the students enhances their overall learning experience has never been in our agendas. 

Beyond Rice, Curry, and Dal Menus?

A significant aspect of holistic education involves nurturing healthy habits. My agenda extends beyond traditional diets of rice, curry, and dal to incorporate a diverse range of nutritious food items such as green vegetables, fruits, and soups. I have been shouting that we have mountains of locally available vegetables and fruits better than anything in the world. Why not make the best use of it? Our habits have to be nurtured daily and more so in formal school settings, in gangs. By partnering with nutritionists, schools can create menus that cater to the nutritional needs of students, fostering not only academic excellence but also overall well-being. Our people in the kitchen are basking all day long, a little more homework would be a journey to heaven.

Parent Partnership?

Education is a collaborative effort, and my agenda emphasizes the importance of parent partnership. Why not make better use of our parents? 

By establishing open lines of communication, involving parents in decision-making processes, and organizing regular parent-teacher interactions, we create a supportive network that actively contributes to the holistic development of the child. 

More than a School Surrounding? 

The physical environment plays a crucial role in shaping the educational experience. My vision includes creating aesthetically pleasing school surroundings that inspire creativity and a love for learning. Our school surroundings are deserted with broken pieces of rock, windows, doors, chairs, tables, and more. Beautiful landscape campuses and thoughtfully designed spaces contribute to an atmosphere that fosters curiosity and intellectual exploration.

Diversifying the Curriculum?

To prepare students for the complexities of the modern world, my agenda targets a diversified curriculum, more than what we have. Beyond traditional subjects, students should have the opportunity to explore beyond arts and sciences, but more vocational education to the interest of students. This approach not only caters to diverse interests but also cultivates well-rounded individuals ready to face the challenges of the world.


This school teacher agenda for the new Minister of Education and Skills Development is a call to reimagine the educational landscape through hardship and experience in different schools and management.

The time for transformation is now, and this agenda paves the way for a future where education is not just a process but a profound journey of discovery and growth.

Whats Wrong with Number NINE

The Telegram group was flooded with mixed feelings. Self-reflection and introspection was heavily made when one of our colleagues sent a screenshot of wrongly written number "NINE" by a grade 10 student. We were not mocking anyone but were lost in deep reflection of our education.

Although everyone wasn't born with the same luck, talent and intellect, we cannot push things for granted. Is it the curriculum that has holes, or the child that is special, or the teacher not meeting the demand? Something we really need to think and re-think. 

One thing is certain that our curriculum doesn't have room for differently abled pupils. Education system is very fixed and rigid. Many have argued that the current curriculum is simply a number that someone obtains in their exam. That means school churns out a huge number of students who can barely cook, write, speak and stand on their own. 

As a way to reflect and introspect our teaching, we landed up pouring out many points, which may, or may not be true. It is worth discussing for the future of the nation.

 

"One said". "Genius".

 

"Something we really need to reflect upon the child, or we. Puzzle to solve". "Said another".

  

"We are heading into a world of uncertainty. Yeah, a lot to introspect, anyway, happy day friends!” "Claimed another".

 

"We need to reflect. A grade ten student, not being able to write the correct number in our national language is worrisome. What's next? Get to know the child first". "Said another".

 

"Lal Said"."I think every solution –if we genuinely find it with our whole heart - might spring into a tasteful solution. I am hopeful the concept of backstories and roadmaps will be of immense help in knowing every child, -their learning and passion".

 

"Our curriculum is so rigid and bulky. Time to replace it with more practical and lively content rather than on a hard-core fact". "Said Puba". 

 

 

Friends, what a coincidence? "A week ago, interestingly I came across one of the grade 11 students who made the same mistake, blind opposite. While I was seriously brooding upon this, it also made me think so much about the child. It may look simple, but to me this looks like a big puzzle to fix". 

My stand is simple and straight. Same student was found glaring in other subjects. Least bothered about class activities and learning. The story doesn't end with one school and one child, almost 30 percent of kids do have interest but in different fields, not in learning chemistry, English and mathematics. It is beyond school, which is more practical in life.  

 

Indeed, educational institutes and universities are trying their best in providing quality education. However, there is a constant threat faced by the Ministry of Education, curriculum developers, schools and teachers who are constantly battling the diabolical fate of deteriorating quality of education. It was also learnt that schools and teachers are not doing enough in tackling this problem.

 

We must know that curriculum, school and teacher alone can't solve this issue. We must know that there are thousands of special kids at school who have severe learning difficulties and different interests. No Chemistry lessons, no Dzongkha lessons, no History lessons would interest them. Despite many systems in place, nothing seems to help them out. The new challenges ahead are spending exceedingly long time on screen and addiction to online games are posing a huge risk in the effectiveness of curriculum since most of the kids are seen lost and heavily driven by other fun.

 

Most of the kids are fond of learning sport, music, dance, yoga, cooking, swimming, painting, carpentry, culinary as full time education. I strongly feel that these fields seem ideal substitutes for kids with learning difficulties and uninterested ones. 

 

Are we preparing our kids to be world ready? 

 

In many aspects, I was fascinated by the Korean Education system. During my Fellowship, I was made to learn a mix of everything. Initially, I felt funny, when I was given a recipe for roasting potatoes and preparing Kimchi. Roast potatoes and Kimchi are the signature dishes for the ancient Korean. Knowing how to roast potatoes is not enough, rather knowing the right temperature; roasting procedures and presentation were given utmost importance. It involved a lot of patience and skills. 

 

In Korea, the curriculum approach is different. Teachers and schools are given a special place and ever since education is everyone's business. Students in their primary grades learn fundamentals such as self-care, sanitation, personal hygiene, family values, age-old tradition and discipline more than hardcore facts and figures. 

 

One touch I have had from their education is the curriculum on neonatal practical care lessons given to every kid in their primary schools. Schools make sure that every kid is given ample time for value education and culture. They introduce music, dance and sporting as part of the formal curriculum in their fundamental years, in their primary schools. Curriculum is such that every learner is given equal opportunity to learn and be part of school education. Blind children as they mature and complete their education gives them a place as a Massage Therapist.

 

There is also a strong hold curriculum on environment, sanitation, culture, self-care, littering and discipline that makes Korea great. The education board considers these learning as very important in nation building.

 

Classes on self-care, wellbeing, environment, sanitation, sporting would rather help add charm and value in a Happy Nation too.  

 

Ananymous "LETTER"

                                                                                Classic calligraphy

The art of letter writing is fast fading away globally. We hardly see people writing letters these days. This could be due to new and easy platforms that new technology provides the users to communicate which are not only fast but also safe and efficient. Nonetheless, people are overly becoming lazy and time conscious.

As the longest academic year comes to an end, I got this letter from one of my students expressing immense gratitude of thankfulness for helping shape their dreams.

It was so sweet to hear such good feelings when many turn down for hatred and prejudice. The small piece was beautifully crafted in thoughts and feelings. It was a short yet very powerful and touching. 

It sounds like the feeling was so honest and genuine. The choice of every single word made was so impressive at such a young age. I can see your future already beautiful. You're already a leader. I can see you more than a "politician". I hope your dream comes true. 

May you become someone your parents can trust? May you serve our country, king and people with highest integrity and loyalty?

Stay blessed as always!