Bumthang Hosts Launch of Sports in Schools Programe as It Expands to Eastern Bhutan

The second edition of the Sports in Schools (SiS) Programe was officially launched today in Bumthang, marking the beginning of its expansion into eastern Bhutan and reinforcing efforts to build a vibrant sporting culture in schools across the country.

The launch was marked by a three day orientation workshop bringing together Dzongkhag Education Officers, school principals, School Sports Instructors, Health and Physical Education teachers, and officials from six participating schools. The workshop, which runs from April 1 to 3, 2026, sets the foundation for the effective rollout of the programe in the region.

The Sports in Schools Programe is a collaborative initiative of the Bhutan Olympic Committee and the Ministry of Education and Skills Development, with support from Olympic Solidarity. The partnership reflects a shared commitment to strengthening school sports and promoting the overall well being and development of students.

This year, the programe expands to three new pilot schools in eastern Bhutan Menjay Middle Secondary School, Nganglam Lower Secondary School, and Pangbang Primary School. It is the first time the initiative is being implemented across three different school levels primary, lower secondary, and middle secondary, reflecting a more inclusive and adaptive approach to school sports in Bhutan.

The inaugural session was graced by Sangay Choden, Director of the Department of Education Programmes under the Ministry of Education and Skills Development. In her keynote address, she highlighted that the initiative goes far beyond sports, describing it as “a commitment to empowering our youth and cultivating a generation of healthy, engaged citizens.”

She emphasized the broader vision of creating “a vibrant sports and physical activity culture in schools where every child can move, play, grow, and excel,” while ensuring that no child is left behind. She further noted that sports is no longer viewed as an afterthought but is now increasingly recognised as an important pillar of learning that contributes to physical health, emotional resilience, confidence, teamwork, and improved academic outcomes.

Highlighting the long term value of the initiative, she pointed out that meaningful investment in school sports today can lead to healthier communities and a more productive future generation. She also stressed that the programe creates pathways not only for participation but also for talent development, leadership, and opportunities in sports related fields.

Reflecting on the first edition, she acknowledged the progress made by the pilot schools, where students were not only actively engaged in sports but also developed leadership, teamwork, and confidence. The initiative also introduced students to roles beyond playing, including sports commentary, sports journalism, and photography, allowing wider participation and encouraging creativity.

These experiences, she said, have helped strengthen school communities and inspired a more active and healthy environment among students.

As the programe moves into its next phase, she called on all participants to take ownership and work collectively to carry forward the vision. She reminded them that the initiative represents a shared responsibility to ensure every child in Bhutan has the opportunity to discover their potential and pursue excellence through sports.

The workshop includes participants from six schools, with Woochu Lower Secondary School, Khangkhu Middle Secondary School, and Chundu Armed Forces Public School continuing from the first phase, alongside Menjay Middle Secondary School, Nganglam Lower Secondary School, and Pangbang Primary School as new pilot schools. Over the next three days, participants will focus on strengthening their understanding of the programe, aligning their plans, and setting a clear and practical direction for implementation in their respective schools.

In addition to the sessions, officials from the Bhutan Olympic Committee and the Ministry of Education and Skills Development are expected to continue providing guidance and follow up support to schools to ensure the successful implementation of the programe throughout the year.

The Sports in Schools Programe continues to gain momentum as a key national initiative, creating opportunities for students not only to participate in sports but also to take ownership, lead, and grow. As it expands further, the vision remains clear to build a vibrant sporting culture in schools and shape a generation that is active, confident, and prepared for the future.

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