Planting the Seeds of Change

SPORTS IN SCHOOL PROJECT

Sangay Dorji’s story is one of transformation—both personal and professional. From a dedicated national Taekwondo player to a passionate School Sports Instructor (SSI) at Dechencholing Higher Secondary School, his journey has been shaped by hard work, learning, and a newfound understanding of sports beyond just physical activity.

After completing his diploma in Physical Education from Paro College, Sangay took up his first job as an SSI at Dechencholing Higher Secondary School. For the first year, he followed the usual routine—scheduling sports sessions, training students in various games, and ensuring physical activities were a part of school life. But everything changed when he got involved in the pilot project entitled “Project Dechencholing” initiated by the Bhutan Olympic Committee (BOC). “Before, I used to think my role was just about teaching sports as per the schedule. But when the team from BOC introduced the concept of sports science, my entire perspective shifted. I realized that sports is not just about playing games—it’s about understanding the athlete, their development, and how structured training can make a huge difference. That’s when my eyes were truly opened.”

This project was piloted at Dechencholing Higher Secondary School for six months previouse year, and today, Sangay is witnessing its impact firsthand. This year, as the school reopened, the principal, management, and teachers decided to continue what was started. “Now, we’re taking it forward together.

One of the biggest changes is how we record and analyze data. At the beginning of the year, we assess students’ fitness levels and then track their progress. By the end of the year, we compare the results and see what worked, where students improved, and where we need interventions.”

The project has also changed the way teachers engage with sports. “Last year, when we were trained, it wasn’t just for physical education teachers—it was for everyone. And today, I see 40 teachers working together, contributing in any way they can. That kind of collective effort is what makes real change possible.”

As Sangay is attending session on the Sports in School Project, he found himself reflecting on how far things had come. “Last year, when this project started, we were just planting the seeds. Today, I can see those seeds growing, branching out, and touching so many lives. One day, we’ll reap the benefits on a much larger scale. That’s my dream. And I’m so happy to be part of this journey.”

He recalled how, during the pilot phase, students’ health and fitness data was collected, analyzed, and then used to introduce structured athlete-based training. The results spoke for themselves—after just a few months, there was significant improvement in their fitness levels.

One of the biggest testaments to the project’s success was the recent Kids Athletics Festival organized by the Bhutan Amateur Athletic Federation (BAAF) to celebrate the 45th birth anniversary of His Majesty The 5th Druk Gyalpo. Thirteen schools from Thimphu participated, and Sangay was overjoyed to see the outstanding performance of Dechencholing students.

“Now, I understand the importance of things like warming up, cooling down, and structured training. These aren’t just for sports—they help students in their everyday lives, in their studies, and in becoming disciplined individuals.”

Sangay’s journey is just one of many. The Sports in School Project has sparked a movement, reshaping how schools integrate sports into education. More schools, more teachers, and more students will benefit in the years to come. As for Sangay, he is proud to be a part of this transformation and excited about what the future holds.

“This project has changed me, my school, and my students. And this is just the beginning.”