Drawing exhibition was held during the day 1 of the OCA – OS Regional Forum on 2nd April 2025.
The day 1 of the OCA-OS Regional Forum came alive with colors and creativity in the morning of April 2 as the Bhutan Olympic Committee (BOC), in collaboration with the Olympic Council of Asia (OCA), hosted a competition and art exhibition to promote the upcoming 20th Asian Games in Aichi-Nagoya, Japan. The event was graced by His Royal Highness Prince Jigyel Ugyen Wangchuck, Vice President of the OCA, alongside esteemed delegates from the Olympic Council of Asia, Olympic Solidarity, and representatives from Aichi-Nagoya.
The exhibition featured various artworks that embodied the spirit of the Asian Games, with theme “Asian Games for All”. The competition provided a platform for students aged below 13 years from four pilot schools to express their creativity while engaging with the larger Olympic movement.
A Journey of Creativity, Passion, and Expression
The journey of this competition began in the classrooms which were conducted on the date of 21st March – 24th March 2025 respectively in each school, where 355 students from four pilot schools poured their imaginations onto paper. The participating schools included:
- Dechencholing Higher Secondary School
- Chundu Armed Force Public School
- Khangkhu Middle Secondary School
- Wochu Lower Secondary School
Each school-level competition was an interactive and engaging experience, with students eagerly taking part. Stationery and refreshments were provided, ensuring they had everything needed to bring their visions to life. Given just two hours to complete their drawings, the young artists worked with intense focus, emotions running high as they translated their thoughts onto paper.
For many, it was their first time participating in such an event, and the excitement was unmistakable. Some students were nervous yet thrilled, while others found confidence in their artistic abilities. The competition not only encouraged creativity and self-expression but also gave them a sense of pride and accomplishment.
The Final Exhibition: A Day of Enthusiasm and Recognition
The final exhibition, held from 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM, was a momentous occasion for the students. Their top 20 artworks were proudly displayed, capturing the essence of sportsmanship, culture, and the unity of the Asian Games.
As the delegates moved through the exhibition, the young artists stood beside their work, eagerly explaining their inspirations and creative process. To make the selection process engaging and fair, each delegate was given four-star stickers to place on the artworks they found most exceptional. The four pieces with the highest number of stars were declared the winners. Their faces lit up with a mix of excitement and nervousness as they answered questions from the distinguished guests, who carefully assessed each piece. It was a day filled with pride, joy, and a deep sense of achievement—a rare opportunity for these students to have their voices heard through art.
His Royal Highness Prince Jigyel Ugyen Wangchuck also took time to personally interact with the students, expressing his admiration for their dedication and artistic talent. His words of encouragement made the day even more memorable, leaving the young artists feeling truly appreciated and inspired to continue their creative journeys.
Result declaration
The result declaration ceremony was attended by Mr. Sonam Karma Tshering, Secretary General of the Bhutan Olympic Committee, along with distinguished officials from the Olympic Council of Asia (OCA)—Mr. Jian Zhou, Mr. Wissam Trkmani, and Mr. Alvin Sallay. Also present was Mr. Fumihito Kanaizuka, an official representing the 20th Asian Games Aichi-Nagoya.
Their presence added great significance to the event, as they commended the students for their enthusiasm, creativity, and dedication. Their words of encouragement inspired the young participants, reinforcing the importance of youth involvement in sports and journalism on an international stage.
The winners of the competition are:
- Ugyen Drodyel Jamtsho – Dechencholing Higher Secondary School
- Ugyen Rigphel Dorji – Dechencholing Higher Secondary School
- Rishika Darjee – Khangkhu Middle Secondary School
- Shelkhar Zangmo – Khangkhu Middle Secondary School
Their artworks will now be taken to Japan for exhibition at the 20th Asian Games in Aichi-Nagoya, Japan, allowing their talent to be showcased on an international stage.
As a token of appreciation, the winners were presented with goodie bags from the Bhutan Olympic Committee, the Olympic Council of Asia, and special souvenirs from the 20th Asian Games, Aichi-Nagoya, Japan.
For the winners, this moment was nothing short of a dream come true. Ugyen Drodyel Jamtsho, one of the winners from Dechencholing Higher Secondary School, expressed his immense gratitude for being chosen as one of the winner.
“I never imagined that my drawing would be selected among so many talented friend. This competition has given me the confidence to believe in my creativity. Seeing my artwork appreciated by such esteemed guests was a surreal experience,” he shared with a bright smile.
Rishika Darjee, one of the winners from Khangkhu Middle Secondary School shared her excitement as she received goodie bags.
“I am beyond excited that my artwork will travel to Japan. It feels like a piece of me will be part of the Asian Games, and that is something I will cherish forever. I want to thank my teachers, my friends, and the organizers for giving us this amazing opportunity,” she shared with excitement.
Their words reflected the joy, pride, and newfound inspiration that the competition had instilled in many young artists.
The result declaration ceremony was attended by Mr. Sonam Karma Tshering, Secretary General of the Bhutan Olympic Committee, along with distinguished officials from the Olympic Council of Asia (OCA)—Mr. Jian Zhou, Mr. Wissam Trkmani, and Mr. Ahamed Iqbal Sallay. Also present was Mr. Fumihito Kanaizuka, an official representing the 20th Asian Games Aichi-Nagoya.
Their presence added great significance to the event, as they commended the students for their enthusiasm, creativity, and dedication. Their words of encouragement inspired the young participants, reinforcing the importance of youth involvement in sports and journalism on an international stage.
A Special Thanks to the four pilot Schools
This competition would not have been possible without the support and dedication of the four pilot schools—Dechencholing Higher Secondary School, Chundu Armed Force Public School, Khangkhu Middle Secondary School, and Wochu Lower Secondary School.
A sincere thank you to the teachers, school administrations, and students for their enthusiasm and commitment. By taking the time to host this competition, they have given young artists a chance to showcase their talent and be part of the 20th Asian Games.
This platform has encouraged students to dream bigger, express their creativity, and gain confidence in their abilities. Their participation not only celebrated the power of art but also connected them to a global sporting event, making them a part of something truly special.
A Celebration of Art, Sports, and Opportunity
This competition was more than just an art contest; it was a celebration of creativity, emotions, and aspirations. The event bridged the worlds of sports and art, proving that both can inspire unity, discipline, and passion.
For many students, this was an experience they would never forget—a moment where their talent was recognized and celebrated. The event not only instilled a sense of pride in the young artists but also sparked enthusiasm for the upcoming Asian Games.
As Bhutan continues to engage in the international sporting community, initiatives like this serve as a powerful reminder of the unifying power of art and sports. With the 20th Asian Games in Aichi-Nagoya fast approaching, this event has successfully ignited excitement and showcased the remarkable potential of Bhutanese youth on a global platform.