National Day

I am proud to be born as Bhutanese. On this very auspicious day I and my family joins the nation to celebrate the 106th national day. Let us pray and wish long live to our Wangchuk dynasty for their hardship bravery.

The 106th National Day celebration in Bhutan was a grand and jubilant event that showcased the nation's rich cultural heritage, unity, and progress. Held on December 17th, this significant occasion brought together people from all walks of life to commemorate the founding of the Kingdom of Bhutan by Gongsar Ugyen Wangchuck in 1907.

The festivities unfolded against the breathtaking backdrop of Bhutan's picturesque landscapes, creating a setting that symbolized the nation's harmony with nature. The event was graced by the presence of His Majesty the King, who is revered for his unwavering dedication to the welfare of the Bhutanese people.

The celebrations were marked by a vibrant blend of traditional and modern elements. Dazzling traditional attire, adorned with intricate patterns and vibrant colors, adorned the participants, reflecting Bhutan's deep-rooted cultural heritage. The air resonated with the sounds of traditional music, dances, and chants, evoking a sense of pride and belonging among the attendees.

As part of the celebration, a ceremonial march was held, involving various contingents that represented Bhutan's different districts and sectors. This display of unity and diversity underscored the strength of Bhutan's national identity while honoring the unique characteristics of its regions.

The occasion was also an opportunity to reflect on Bhutan's remarkable progress in various domains. From its pursuit of Gross National Happiness (GNH) over Gross Domestic Product (GDP) to its commitment to preserving the environment through sustainable practices, Bhutan's journey towards holistic development was celebrated and applauded.

Amidst the festivities, speeches were delivered that highlighted the importance of preserving Bhutan's cultural heritage, fostering unity, and embracing the challenges of a rapidly changing world. The National Day celebration served as a reminder of Bhutan's resilience and its people's dedication to upholding the values that have shaped their nation's character.

In conclusion, the 106th National Day celebration in Bhutan was a splendid amalgamation of tradition and progress, a testament to the Bhutanese people's enduring pride in their cultural heritage and their forward-looking approach to development. As the nation looked back on its history with gratitude and forward to its future with hope, the event left an indelible mark on the hearts of all who participated.

Drujeygang

The resemblance between Drujegang and my hometown is striking, encompassing aspects such as lifestyle, cultivation practices, and crop varieties. However, the complexity of the population in this area surpasses that of my hometown, with a diverse mix of origins. The languages spoken vary, including Khengkha, Lotsamkha, and even some Ngalop. The fertility of the soil here is somewhat lacking, resulting in a scarcity of readily available vegetables.

Upon our arrival, equipped with lodging essentials but not food supplies, we had optimistic expectations of finding all we needed. Yet, reality hit us hard – the cost of living here is notably high, and even worse, the essential items we require are scarcely accessible. The local staff informed us that they must travel all the way to Damphu to procure vegetables. In our group of eight, which included four of us and the overseeing examiner, we collectively decided to utilize the school kitchen for our meals. Collaboratively, we gathered the necessary ingredients and entrusted one of the cooks to prepare our meals. At the conclusion, we compensated him with a sum of Nu. 1500/-. Conversely, three of our companions opted for private arrangements.

A significant event unfolded on the 28th of November at DHSS, marked by a farewell bonfire in honor of the departing classes X and XII. We were graciously included in this event, relishing the farewell proceedings featuring various programs and a shared dinner.

The morning of November 30th witnessed the principal extending a warm welcome to the external examiners during the assembly. The overseeing examiner introduced the invigilators and briefed the students on the examination protocols and guidelines outlined by BCSEA. Expressing well-wishes for the students' successful completion of the exams, the overseeing examiner concluded the briefing. Notably, the student body consisted of 134 class X students and 34 students from the 12th Commerce stream.

Happy Vaccation!

The conclusion of your examination arrives today, marking a pivotal juncture for you. Now emerges the moment to harvest the rewards of your ceaseless toil throughout this year. I trust that your efforts have been steadfast. The outcome hinges entirely upon the depth of your diligent exertions.

Reflect on the journey that commenced in February 2013, culminating at the doorstep of December 2013. Bid adieu to the departing year, 2013, as you ascend to the echelons of the next educational tier. Refrain from allowing 2013 to blend into 2014 while remaining stagnant in your current status. Embrace 2014 with exuberance, anticipating the forthcoming World Cup and the jubilation it promises.

Each day heralds a fresh beginning, and every year should inaugurate a new chapter. Prolonged stagnation in the same grade over two distinct years is an outcome incompatible with your potential. Your guardians have unfailingly supported you, educators have invested their utmost efforts, governmental assistance has been extended, and friends have provided encouragement. The onus now rests upon you to become your own advocate.

The time has come to witness the culmination of your endeavors, a denouement suffused with elation and mirth. The specter of a disheartening outcome is one we ardently hope to avert. Solely through tenacious labor can you illuminate your life's path. Remember, divine assistance favors those who actively strive.

As an educator, my aspiration is for you to achieve higher marks. I yearn to perceive each of you adorned with a spectrum of accomplishments. Your parents' singular aspiration is to witness your progression to the subsequent grade. It's crucial to realize that the sacrifices made by your teachers, parents, and the government bear little import if you falter. In doing so, you not only cause concern to your parents but also undermine their spirits.

Your guardians have nurtured, supported, and invested in your education with the sole desire to see you stand independently. Their aspiration doesn't encompass seizing your employment, wealth, or opulent lifestyle. Rather, they ardently anticipate your radiance within society.

The winter season is upon us, a time when your parents' affection takes center stage. This period proffers an opportunity for you to reciprocate their love through small yet meaningful gestures. Extend assistance, refrain from causing them distress, and eschew delving into deleterious habits or frivolous pursuits. The fragility of existence underscores the importance of self-care. Hence, navigate this winter recess with purpose, ensuring it yields fruitfulness. Wishing all a state of well-being, I encourage you to unwind and relish this vacation period. Farewell and take care.

Reviewing

1. Accompanied young male and female students to Samtengang, facilitating their participation in an inter-school regional sports meet.
2. Provided oversight and support to the school's archery team during their journey to Punakha, where they competed in a prominent regional archery tournament.
3. Assumed the role of a Visiting Examiner at YHSS in Thimphu, overseeing the administration and assessment of Physics Practical examinations.
4. Fulfilling the responsibility of an Invigilator for both the BHSCE and BCSE examinations in Dagana, specifically at the Drujegang examination center.
5. Currently engaged as an evaluator at CST, assigned to grade 12 physics papers. Having concluded the evaluation process for class 9 physics papers, I am presently engrossed in grading class 11 physics papers, thus ensuring my readiness for upcoming invigilation duties.

Government Quarter

If the government were to develop housing facilities for various sectors, including teachers and other departments, it could naturally generate revenue. The provision of rent allowances to civil servants would become redundant in such a scenario. By occupying government quarters, the funds received by individuals essentially circle back to the government, forming an exceptionally efficient revenue cycle.

Consider a scenario where affluent individuals take out loans to construct buildings. Ultimately, who bears the loan repayment burden? It inadvertently falls on us, the civil servants, as we are obligated to rent their spaces, essentially repaying them through rent. But who reimburses us? The government does, implying that the loan repayment is indirectly shouldered by the government. However, it's important to note that these funds do not return fully to the government's coffers; perhaps a marginal 5% to 10% in the form of taxes. Ultimately, who reaps the benefits? The affluent individuals do, as they generate income through this arrangement. Consequently, in Bhutan, the wealthy tend to become even wealthier, partly due to this indirect support from the government.

The time has come for the government to meticulously examine these intricacies and devise novel strategies to bridge the gap between the less privileged and the affluent. I find it challenging to muster enthusiasm when the government proposes rent allowances or salary hikes. After all, this often leads to a surge in rental costs, an occurrence we are currently witnessing. Even if the government increases our salaries, it doesn't necessarily translate to personal gain, as the augmented income would be offset by higher rents paid to the affluent. This predicament highlights how the government's actions inadvertently favor the upper class while not adequately aiding the lower and middle classes.

If an ample number of government quarters were available, we could potentially pay up to 50% less compared to private accommodations. This arrangement would be mutually beneficial: we, the civil servants, would experience relief, while the government's income, channeled through our salaries, would also thrive. Conversely, when we rent from private quarters, the entire payment goes to the landlord, leaving both us and the government at a disadvantageous juncture. In this context, private income is generated, while the government taps into alternative sources for civil servant compensation.

Consider the implications of an imbalanced ecosystem. Imagine a situation where there's an excessive number of tigers but an insufficient prey population to sustain them. Inevitably, these tigers might encroach upon human territories. Similarly, the wealthy seem to be encroaching upon the government's resources, ostensibly in the name of the less fortunate. How long can the government persist in the pattern of raising salaries and employing existing techniques that perpetuate a lopsided financial cycle? The ones reaping the benefits are not us, but the wealthy few. Our plight remains largely unchanged.

In the private sector, the government indirectly shoulders the loan burden, and the private individual becomes the building owner. In contrast, in government-owned structures, the government assumes the loan liability, making it the proprietor. Unfortunately, this dynamic is less common in Bhutan. These sentiments reflect my personal perspective, devoid of any intention to offend or harm anyone.

The currency value

The prices of onions and tomatoes in the vegetable market have surged significantly, surpassing reasonable levels. This increase in cost extends beyond that of other goods, indicating an unprecedented escalation. I wish to emphasize particularly the exorbitant price of tomatoes. In Wangduephodrang, as of today, the price of tomatoes stands at Ngultrum 150 per kilogram. The sum of a thousand currency units barely covers a small bag of vegetables, illustrating the astonishing disparity. This prompts contemplation on whether this trend signifies a robust advancement in the nation's economy or rather a lag in its economic progress.
Comparatively, before 2008, a kilogram of tomatoes was priced at a mere Ngultrum 15, magnifying the stark difference to the current Ngultrum 150. The instability in currency valuation exacerbates the situation. The once Ngultrum 1000 note now merely holds the worth of Nu. 100 from the pre-2008 era. During my training phase, a stipend of 1500/- sufficed for survival, but presently, managing with 15000/- has become an arduous endeavor. Extrapolating a decade into the future, a 10,000 note might be necessary to equalize the value of the present 1000 note.

Looking ahead, in the span of 20 to 30 years, the prospect emerges where substantial bundles of money might be indispensable for the purchase of even the smallest items. This paints a concerning picture of the economic trajectory.

Happy Birth Anniversary

11th November: I and my family join the people of Bhutan in celebrating this most auspicious occasion of the Birth Anniversary of His Majesty The Fourth Druk Gyalpo Jigme Singye Wangchuk – our divine blessing. I humbly offer my deepest prayers and wishes for the health, happiness and long life of our beloved Fourth Druk Gyalpo. Long Live Your Majesty.

Action Vs Reaction

After an illustrious span of four years dedicated to the field of education, I am transitioning into the role of an invigilator. Regrettably, my nomination has encountered resistance from a few quarters. It appears that some individuals have not taken into consideration the extensive array of workshops I diligently participated in throughout the past year. Despite the numerous learning opportunities I engaged with, there have been grievances lodged, with an attempt to revoke my nomination on the grounds of my status as a visiting examiner.

If I were to place myself in your shoes, I can scarcely fathom the approach I would adopt to address this situation. The experience would undoubtedly be profoundly distressing, and the sentiments associated with it would be difficult to reconcile. This sentiment is especially pertinent, as I find it perplexing that you have raised concerns about my selection as an invigilator, even though I championed your nomination for the same role, regardless of the number of workshops you had attended. Your entreaty to "understand, my friend" echoes in my thoughts, invoking contemplation. What if, instead of me, it had been you who encountered rejection? I consider myself fortunate to have been granted this opportunity, just as you were.

Considering the prospect of receiving certain benefits, it is conceivable that an awakening would transpire, even from the depths of inertia. Conversely, envision the scenario wherein these benefits were rescinded; it is conceivable that distress would pervade even the realm of dreams. While I am inclined to believe that your comments were perhaps not intended to wound, they undeniably incited a profound ache within me. After all, I perceive a shared trajectory and common purpose, though the need for resolution is evident. It is plausible that your words may have inadvertently slipped forth, and I acknowledge that my response might similarly stem from my own personal experiences.

In conclusion, as I embark on this new chapter and assume my role as an invigilator, I reflect upon the complexities of our shared human experience. It is my hope that we can navigate these intricacies, fostering understanding and accord along the way.

First Democratic Government

2008-2013
It has been nearly three years since my last visit to my village. Observing my hometown through Google Earth fills me with joy, as I can see that it is now linked by a farm road. Additionally, I've learned that many residents have purchased vehicles by securing loans from the bank. While I have always known the people of Dechheling to be humble and not overly ambitious, the newfound accessibility of the road seems to be kindling a sense of ambition among them.

I recognize that now is an opportune moment for me to return home. The presence of the road and a surplus of electricity opens up numerous possibilities for me to contribute and engage in activities. I extend my gratitude to the DPT government for transforming our aspirations into reality. Furthermore, the completion of the Gyelposhing-Nganglam highway has added another layer of transformation, and I can't help but envision the profound impact it will have on life in Dechheling.

My Hometown

Dechheling– A valley of profound happiness
Approximately 40 kilometers to the north of Nganglam, nestled amidst the landscape, lies a cluster of settlements interconnected by the Nganglam-Pemagatshel footpath that traverses the valley. This locale finds itself bordered by Dungpgu and Ngangray to the west, Martsala and Baapta to the east, and Kholomri and Dungchelo to the north—villages that are in close proximity to one another. The valley's central core sees the Pelingri River gracefully flowing southwards.

The inhabitants of Dechheling, known as Dechhelingpas, exhibit a predominantly unpretentious, unassuming lifestyle with modest means. Their endeavors primarily revolve around subsistence, as they engage in cultivating an extensive array of both essential sustenance and commercial crops. Notably, maize and soybeans claim prominence as staple food sources. While oranges stand as the principal cash crop, the introduction of the Dungsum Cement Project has cast a shadow on the once thriving orange cultivation, resulting in a decline. In contemporary times, the denizens of this area have begun embracing urban ways of living, contributing to their meager incomes. Consequently, traditional rice cultivation has waned.

The linguistic tapestry is woven with Sharchops, a dialect divergent from the conventional form, rendering it potentially incomprehensible to most Sharchop speakers. Its origins likely trace back to Sharkhalaktang, sharing certain resemblances. The local architecture predominantly employs organic materials such as wood, bamboo, and banana leaves in the construction of dwellings. As the tides of governance and time undergo transformation, the metamorphosis of the Dechhelingpas unfolds, with the landscape witnessing ongoing development endeavors.

Me as a student

I was raised in the nurturing confines of Dechheling, my explorations limited until the age of 19, at which point I completed my initial scholastic journey at Dechheling Lower Secondary School. (Interestingly, I was admitted to the school at the tender age of 11!) Given my seniority and stature, educators frequently bestowed upon me the role of class captain. An amusing anecdote from those days involves my response to requests for restroom breaks; I would grant permission only in exchange for promises of an eraser, a pencil, or the savory offerings of roasted maize and soybeans on the following day. Ah, the memories! During that epoch, I excelled academically, consistently securing the top rank across multiple classes: PP, I, II, III, IV, V, VI (with an impressive 74.3%), and placing second in VII, followed by a commendable 63% in VIII. It is not hubris but a recognition that in a particular context, even a one-eyed individual can reign as king.

My academic prowess garnered favor among several teachers, though, paradoxically, it also seemed to attract the attention of numerous admirers of the opposite sex. Such attention led to a number of romantic entanglements and, amusingly, earned me a reprimand during a school assembly by none other than our headmaster, Mr. Rinchen Gyeltshen. The school boasted a suggestion box prominently situated in the office area. Regrettably, instead of constructive suggestions, some envious classmates exploited it by submitting the names of couples, an action that resulted in my disciplinary chastisement.

Nonetheless, this did not deter me from cultivating relationships. In my eighth-grade year, I formed four friendships with young ladies, all of whom have since married. In a twist of fate, I now have two children of my own. Progressing through my academic journey, I transitioned to a boarding school in Sarpang during the ninth year, achieving the coveted first position in IXB and securing third place in XC. While in the tenth grade, I mustered the courage to express my affections to a young lady, only to be met with rejection – she was none other than Migma Dema Sherpa. Another admirer, Sakumtala Leepcha, also held affection for me, but fate didn't unite us.

In subsequent years, I pursued my education through Zhemgang (studying Pure Science in XI) and continued through XII (achieving a commendable 67% in ISCE). During these years, romantic endeavors took a back seat. Following this phase, I engaged in a year-long apprenticeship in Trashiyangtse at Tshaling CPS before embarking on my academic journey at Paro College of Education, pursuing a degree in Secondary Education. During my training period, I formed yet another significant connection.

In the present, I stand as an educator at Bajothang Higher Secondary School, content in my role and grateful for my small yet cherished family.
Phanzor (A hill where prayer flags are being set), my birth place

Nestled at the foothills of Ngangraygonpa lies my village, a place where the confluence of "Phan" meaning prayer flag and "Zor" meaning hill, creates a serene atmosphere. Comprising 5-6 households, this village holds a profound significance in my heart, as its closeness and attachment to me are undeniable. Throughout my lifetime, this bond will remain unbroken, for it is the place I proudly call my hometown.

In the village leadership, Meme Luchei Ata assumed the role of the village head. In times of illness, our recourse was to seek his aid, as he stood as the sole healer in those days. Celebrations and festivals demanded his consultation and approval; failure to do so would earn us his displeasure and reproach, showcasing his authority. Regrettably, Meme Luchei Ata passed away a year ago. I extend my prayers for his eternal rest and hope for his swift return to continue serving people like us.

Delving into my family history reveals a lineage that spans generations, though details of our distant past are elusive. To provide a legacy for my children, I shall recount some essential elements here. My father, BOGAR, alongside his wife PEMA CHODEN, led a family that grappled with meager means of survival. Their offspring numbered around four, but sadly, one met an untimely demise, leaving me as the youngest. My early recollections are tinged with the loss of my mother, who, when I was merely three, succumbed to poisoning. Though I strive to remember her visage from that tender age, the memory escapes me; thus, I have never truly beheld her.

My father, a man of modest demeanor, provided steadfast support, yet the intricacies of life's challenges were beyond my youthful comprehension. Later, he welcomed a second wife into our family, a decision obscured from my awareness. It was relayed to me that my tender age required supervision during his fieldwork, prompting this new chapter. Around the age of four, I encountered my stepmother cradling a newborn son, though the specifics evade me. A distinct memory remains of the day when our entire family journeyed to her parents' abode, bearing a whole pig carcass as part of the traditional celebration for the birth of a child. This archaic custom mandated that, following a child's birth in the husband's family, the child be taken to the wife's parents' home. A pig was ritually sacrificed, marking a three to four-day festivity. On this occasion, my younger brother, Kelzang Chedup, was the center of attention; he now serves as an educator.

Our family now stands at four, with my elder sister Dorji Zangmo having wed Pema Namgyel and raising two children, both engaged in farming. My older brother Guru Tenzin united with Lungten Wangmo, nurturing two children and pursuing a career as a mason at KHPC Gyelposhing. My younger brother Kezang Chedup joined in matrimony with Sherab Zangmo, bringing forth two children and assuming a teaching role at Dechheling LSS Nganglam. As for myself, I wed Kinzang Choden and am blessed with two children. My professional path led me to become an educator at Bajothang HSS in Wangdue.

In essence, my narrative weaves through the tapestry of my village, my lineage, and the interconnected lives that shape my journey.

Happy Coronation

Happy coronation your Majesty, I pray for your long life and dedicate my self to serve the nation always.

who waits for me

He has now reached the age of two, and what astonishes me is that, even at this tender age, he refuses to be apart from me. His inclination towards constant companionship is truly remarkable. Every morning, when I prepare to leave for work, his eyes well up with tears as he yearns to accompany me. Throughout the day, he awaits my return with bated breath, his gaze fixed upon the window. The moment he spots me approaching along the road, his face lights up with sheer delight, and he gleefully cries out, "Apa... Apa..." Witnessing his enthusiasm fills me with a deep sense of admiration. He serves as my wellspring of inspiration and, above all, holds an irreplaceable position in my life.

Upon my arrival back home, he stands eagerly by the door, wearing a radiant smile. He waits patiently until I've settled in, and then he begins his joyful chorus of "Apa... Apa..." on the brink of tears. This scenario repeats itself frequently, during lunch breaks and after school hours. The underlying reason behind these heartwarming displays of inspiration and happiness is quite simple: he desires me to bring him something to eat.

Once my school day concludes, my little boy expresses a strong urge to go for a ride. His fascination lies in exploring the world beyond our home's confines. I wonder whether it's my habit of keeping him indoors or my occasional excursions with him that have fueled this penchant. At his current age, venturing outside holds immense significance for him, offering a rich tapestry of experiences.

The Relics at Thimphu

Commencing my expedition around 4:00 AM on the morning of Sunday, October 20th, 2013, I embarked on a journey bound for Thimphu, fueled by the aspiration to seek blessings from revered relics. The belief that these sacred artifacts could cleanse the accumulated weight of my transgressions impelled me forward. Urgency spurred my pace, culminating in my arrival at RAPA by approximately 6:30 AM.

There, I joined the meandering queue adjacent to the entrance leading towards Tashichhodzong, with the line's genesis situated precisely at the RAPA hall. The atmosphere was permeated by a piercing cold, though the line remained utterly immobile. The roadways bore witness to reckless vehicular velocity, seemingly devoid of concern, even as children ventured across streets engrossed in their youthful camaraderie. Overwhelmed by trepidation, I vigilantly safeguarded my children amidst this precarious scenario.

Parents and guardians stood united in the queue, driven by an ardent desire to receive blessings. Meanwhile, vehicles careened down the streets, their velocity emblematic of an unyielding pursuit of financial gains during what they deemed a lucrative period. Regrettably, some youngsters were left unattended in the midst of this hustle. The conspicuous absence of security personnel, law enforcement, the National Pension and Provident Fund (NPPF), and the Desuups became an undeniable reality. The custodians of security had faltered in their duty, mirroring the event's disorganized nature orchestrated by the organizers. In a baffling turn of events, the public was compelled to endure an extensive six-hour wait in the frigid cold, a situation that transpired despite many having arrived as early as 3:00 AM.

Within this interval, an unfortunate accident came to pass. A young boy suffered the grievous loss of a limb as a result of being struck by a bolero car. Providentially, a traffic police officer arrived at the scene, prompting the frustrated and disgruntled public to vocalize the security vacuum that had engulfed the event. My own determination persisted despite the circumstances, although my fervor was challenged when I bore witness to individuals who had arrived subsequent to my own arrival promptly securing more advantageous positions in the central line. Their privilege, being related to someone positioned within, left me in a state of moral dissonance, for I had embarked on this pilgrimage with noble intentions.

All these unfolding events were emblematic of a stark security deficiency. Around 9:00 AM, the event organizers finally presented the relics to the public, albeit with an insufficient number of security personnel at their disposal. Their efforts to maintain order amid the surging crowd proved futile, and a momentary instance of frustration on the part of the organizers led to the abrupt suspension of relic disclosure. This paradoxically magnified the organizers' authority, as their brief moment of frustration mirrored the public's six-hour ordeal. The outcome, unfortunately, was a disheartened public returning home, their aspirations crushed. May the collective discontent of the public find its repository in the lapses of the organizers.

I, being a teacher, find myself constrained in opportunities such as these, with Sundays representing my sole window of availability. My duties are intertwined with nation-building, and I cannot, in good conscience, divert attention from my students to partake in relic blessings, even of such sanctity. I also express reservations about the media representation, particularly Bhutan Broadcasting Service (BBS). Their coverage appeared to lean towards highlighting public shortcomings, neglecting the extensive hardships endured by the masses amidst the rigors of cold and heat. Encouraging a diversified media landscape becomes imperative, as a monopolized media often neglects the multifaceted nature of events. My resolve to abstain from partaking in the secretive relic unveiling remains firm, driven by the realization that the negative sentiments outlined above had burgeoned.

Being a devout Buddhist, my connection to blessings from such revered relics remains unshakable. Thus, I find solace in having garnered blessings along the path to Trashigang at Rabuna Wangdue, where I received chawang from the relics. Gratitude fills my heart for this contentment that now resides within me.

Ap Jai sa koi nahin

One month ago, my child was deeply engrossed in perfecting a Hindi dance routine for the annual school cultural concert. This marked the inaugural stage performance by class PP-A of Tencholing Primary School. Among the participants was my six-year-old daughter, Kezang Chuki, who took part in a rendition of the classic Hindi song "Ap Jaisa Koi Nahin."

Anticipation filled the auditorium as the audience gathered for the commencement of the event, and the excitement was palpable as the chairperson opened the first show. As a parent, I joined the ranks of many eagerly awaiting the second performance, "Ap Jaisa Koi Nahin." This particular show held great significance as it marked the debut stage appearance for these young students since their enrollment in the school.

The moment arrived, met with a burst of exhilaration, as the children stepped onto the stage adorned in red skirts and white shirts, their faces adorned with carefully applied makeup. Amidst this vibrant scene, spotting my own daughter presented a minor challenge, eventually relieved by the realization that she held a prominent position in the front row.

I extend my heartfelt gratitude to Madam Tshomo, the dedicated class teacher of PP-A, and her team for nurturing and refining my child's abilities. Through their efforts, my daughter's perspective has broadened, allowing her to perceive the world with new clarity.

Teaching, I acknowledge, is an intricate task, especially when it involves young children such as mine. While some may perceive teaching as solely the responsibility of educators, I hold a different view. Teaching stands as a profession that lays the foundation for all other vocations. Instead of dwelling on this point, my primary intention is to express gratitude to all the teachers dedicated to instructing class PP. My message is simple: please persevere in your teaching efforts, for your capability and dedication are undeniable.

Regrettably, circumstances beyond my control prevented my child's participation in the second show due to a personal emergency that necessitated a trip to Thimphu. Nonetheless, I wish to emphasize that my child's enthusiasm for the performance remains unwavering.

Think as you act

Verifying the validity of vehicles and ensuring drivers possess licenses is a reasonable endeavor. However, the execution of traffic regulations in Bajo falls short of acceptable standards. The current state of the roads, street lighting, roundabouts, and other infrastructural aspects is concerning due to their lack of maintenance. It is crucial that all these factors are addressed and rectified before introducing and enforcing new rules.

While the monetary aspect of a fine amounting to Nu. 1750/- might not be of utmost concern, the true importance lies in the proper implementation of rules and regulations. It's advisable to consider a procedural approach, such as providing initial or secondary warnings, rather than immediately issuing fines on the spot. This approach reflects a sense of compassion and empathy, qualities that define our humanity. Striving to avoid an air of superiority is essential; empathy should guide actions.

I urge you to reflect on the implications of imposing fines on individuals. While it's acknowledged that rules must be upheld, there could be room for exceptions. This prompts contemplation on how one's own livelihood would be sustained while enforcing fines on others. Adhering to regulations is vital, but equally important is recognizing when circumstances warrant leniency.

My Concern to Students

As an educator, my concerns extend to the well-being of our students. Not only do parents and governmental bodies share this apprehension, but it's disconcerting to observe that students themselves often seem unaffected by it. I consistently emphasize to my students the importance of reciprocal concern; when others express worry for them, it's an opportunity for them to reflect on their own self-care.

Contrary to this principle, current trends among students appear to defy conventional wisdom. Tasks that require completion are often left unattended, while activities that are expressly forbidden gain prominence. It begs the question: are students truly invested in their own welfare? Many seem to confine their activities to the periphery of home and school, raising doubts about their genuine engagement. Similarly, while some parents exhibit genuine concern for their children's development, it's worth remembering that merely enrolling a child in an educational institution does not guarantee holistic growth.

In bygone eras, the desire for education was evident in children even when parents prioritized their involvement in domestic chores. Presently, the dynamic has shifted — parents are keen to send their offspring to school, yet students themselves often exhibit a lack of earnest dedication to their studies. Instead, there's a noticeable inclination among them to intentionally damage clothing or adopt non-conventional attire, despite the availability of suitable alternatives. Unlike the past when our predecessors fashioned garments from leaves and animal hides due to scarcity, today's youngsters are exposed to a range of options.

Unfortunately, modern children seem to assimilate negative influences more readily than positive attitudes, almost as if a predisposition towards negativity is ingrained. Their pursuit of success and recognition often appears disconnected from the concept of diligent effort. It's imperative that we address these trends collectively, nurturing a shift towards a more balanced perspective that values hard work and responsible behavior.

Captain Election at Bajo HSS

Results have been announced, however, a few students have come forward to report an issue. According to their accounts, they couldn't find the expected candidate listed, and there seemed to be some inconsistencies. The election coordinator is actively addressing these problems. Specifically, there were discrepancies between the serial numbers on the Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) and the candidate list. This led to some votes being attributed to the wrong candidates.

Moreover, in this election, there were 16 female candidates nominated, but due to space constraints, not all of them could be accommodated in a single voting machine. Two candidates were placed on a separate machine, which unfortunately went unnoticed by most students. Among these candidates was my nominee, 'Wangmo,' who possesses the qualities required for a captain's role but couldn't secure the position. This incident highlights a failure on the part of the school's election coordinator. It would have been wiser to nominate candidates who could fit within a single voting machine.