Thimphu, Bhutan – January 9, 2025: The School Sports Instructor Pre-Service Training Program, spanning seven weeks, officially concluded today with a closing ceremony graced by Her Excellency Lyonpo Yeezang De Thapa, Minister of Education and Skills Development. The event marked the culmination of an intensive training initiative aimed at preparing 70 selected participants as School Sports Instructors (SSIs).

The Bhutan Olympic Committee (BOC), a proud partner of this program, expressed immense satisfaction with the outcome. In a statement, the BOC acknowledged the program’s success in equipping participants with essential skills and extended their best wishes to all the newly certified instructors as they embark on their journey to inspire and guide Bhutanese youth.

The ceremony, attended by officials from the BOC and the Ministry of Education and Skills Development (MoESD), celebrated the achievements of the participants. Certificates and Khadar were presented to the instructors, who were formally recognized for their roles as catalysts for fostering a sports culture and imparting values among students.

In her address, Lyonpo Yeezang De Thapa emphasized the crucial role of sports instructors in schools, not only in promoting physical activities but also in instilling values and life skills in students. She highlighted His Majesty’s vision and initiatives, reminding the participants of their collective responsibility to contribute to this national goal.

The program, which began on November 25, 2024, and ended on January 9, 2025, spanned seven weeks. Participants underwent comprehensive theoretical and practical sessions, incorporating new elements such as sports science, career education, and student counseling. These enhancements aim to equip instructors with a holistic approach to nurturing students’ physical and emotional well-being.

An MoU signed today between the BOC and MoESD further cemented the commitment to promoting sports and physical activity in schools. This strategic alliance, dedicated to honoring His Majesty the Fourth Druk Gyalpo, seeks to integrate sports into school curriculums, establish regional sports schools, and provide continued training for sports personnel.

These newly certified SSIs will soon be deployed to schools across Bhutan, ready to make a lasting impact on the lives of young Bhutanese through sports and education.