Second Edition of Summer Immersion Program Kicks Off
in Media, Coaching and Refereeing
The opening ceremony of the Second Edition of the Summer Immersion Program in Media, Coaching & Refereeing was held at the Conference Hall of the Bhutan Olympic Committee (BOC) today 4th July 2026, marking the beginning of a week-long learning journey for school students and teachers. Organized by the Bhutan Olympic Committee with support from the Olympic Solidarity, the programme is designed to equip participants with practical knowledge, leadership skills, and hands-on experience in sports media, coaching, and refereeing.
A total of 27 participants are attending the Second Edition of the Summer Immersion Program, comprising 10 students and 4 focal teachers in the Media programme, and 10 students and 3 focal teachers in the Coaching & Refereeing programme. The participating students and teachers represent three newly introduced pilot schools, Panbang Primary School, Minjey Middle Secondary School, and Nganglam Lower Secondary School, along with the previous pilot schools, Khangkhu Middle Secondary School and Chundu Armed Forces Public School. Bringing together participants from these schools, the programme provides a unique platform to learn from experienced professionals, develop practical skills, and gain a deeper appreciation of the many roles that contribute to the growth and development of sport.
Building on the success of its inaugural edition last year in 2025, this year’s programme has been expanded to provide participants with a more comprehensive understanding of the sporting ecosystem. Through interactive workshops, practical sessions, mentorship, and real time exposure, students will explore career pathways and leadership opportunities while developing valuable life skills such as communication, teamwork, critical thinking, creativity, and professionalism.
The Media programme introduces participants to the dynamic world behind every sporting event. Students will learn the fundamentals of sports photography, videography, sports journalism, digital content creation, and social media communication. Through hands-on assignments and guided field coverage, they will develop the ability to capture compelling sporting moments, produce engaging multimedia content, and communicate the values and spirit of sport through impactful stories. By the end of the programme, each participant will have created a portfolio of photographs, videos, written stories, and digital content that can be applied in documenting sporting events within their schools and communities.
The Coaching & Refereeing programme is designed to introduce participants to two of the most important pillars of sports development. Participants will gain a foundational understanding of coaching principles, athlete development, communication, leadership, and team management while learning how coaches play a vital role in nurturing athletes both on and off the field. They will also be introduced to the responsibilities of referees and technical officials, including the application of rules, decision-making, fairness, ethics, and the importance of maintaining the integrity and safety of competition. Through practical demonstrations and interactive activities, participants will experience both coaching and officiating in real-life scenarios, helping them appreciate the dedication and professionalism required in these roles.
A key objective of the Summer Immersion Program is to empower participants to become active contributors to sports development within their schools and communities. Whether documenting school sporting events, assisting in coaching young athletes, supporting competitions as officials, or promoting sport through digital media, participants will leave the programme with practical skills that extend far beyond the classroom.
The Bhutan Olympic Committee remains committed to investing in youth development by creating opportunities that inspire learning, leadership, and service through sport. The Second Edition of the Summer Immersion Program reflects this commitment by nurturing the next generation of sports media professionals, coaches, referees, and young leaders who will play a significant role in strengthening and promoting sport across Bhutan.
