She did better this time!

In the present year, my daughter, Kezang Cheki, graced the stage for her second cultural performance on the evenings of September 26th and 27th. The sheer magnitude of my emotional response was palpable as Class I A unveiled their theatrical presentation. Of particular note was the 15th act, entitled 'DESI Boys', which commanded an exuberant reaction from the entire auditorium. Moreover, the parents in attendance found themselves overwhelmed with tears of felicity as their offspring took the stage incognito, delivering an unexpectedly exquisite dance performance. Gratitude is extended to Madam Asha Mongar, the guiding force behind the development of our children, whose efforts have borne fruit in the form of their remarkable achievements.

In the preceding year, my daughter participated in a Hindi dance during the annual concert as a member of Class PP A. This year, she once again engaged in the realm of Hindi dance, albeit with a discernible improvement. The incorporation of English elements within the composition contributed to this heightened finesse. Irrespective of the program's nature, my daughter's performance resonated deeply within me. To the dedicated educators who have expended considerable effort in nurturing the values and competencies within our children's minds, I express my heartfelt gratitude. Educating young children, given their tender age, is undeniably a challenging endeavor. I duly noted that Madam herself dedicated almost a month to this endeavor—a display of commitment worthy of admiration. I extend my sincerest accolades to these educators, trusting that truth will eventually find its rightful place.

The noble profession of teaching, which serves as both our livelihood and vocation, has been beset by newfound challenges and apprehensions. The unsettling trend of teachers and principals facing litigation has cast a shadow over this honorable calling. Such are the forms of recognition bestowed upon us. It is my firm conviction that behind these unexpected tribulations lie innumerable noble intentions aimed at enhancing and honing the potential of our children. To impart what we conceive as a comprehensive education, the importance of instilling discipline among students cannot be overstated. This stands as a pivotal tenet in the cultivation of virtuous individuals within our society.

Concurrently, educators must be cognizant that, in the process of disciplining students, an early involvement of parents can avert complexities. Entrusting students into the care of their parents during the initial stages can prove instrumental in mitigating issues, allowing subsequent matters to be addressed with greater efficacy.

I am in dilemma

I submitted an application for enrollment in the Master of Science in Physics program, aiming to secure the scholarship offered by the Thailand International Cooperation Agency (TICA). Following this, a group of my peers and I were shortlisted and subsequently participated in the rigorous selection interview process. For some, this was their inaugural experience, while others had been through it once before; in my case, it marked my third attempt.

In the past, I had engaged in the selection interview for the Trongsa Penlopship Scholarship in 2012, reaching the standby position. Similarly, I took part in the TICA scholarship interview in 2013, without achieving placement on the list. This year, undeterred by previous outcomes, I approached the TICA scholarship interview once more. It is a testament to the adage "Where there is a will, there is a way," as I successfully navigated the selection process this time. I have been eagerly anticipating the commencement of my next life chapter, filled with a sense of purpose and the aspiration to contribute to the intellectual growth of young minds in my nation. This journey stands as the exclusive route through which I can serve my country, monarch, and fellow citizens—a unique avenue to fulfill my role as an educator.

Upon fulfilling the requisites, including the submission of necessary documents and adherence to formalities outlined by both the ministry and the Royal Civil Service Commission (RCSC), I returned to my teaching responsibilities at a school in Monggar. However, an unforeseen development emerged. A communication from the ministry requested that I submit an IELTS certificate. While I promptly replied to convey my lack of possession of said certificate, I was advised to contact the RCSC for further clarification. Unfortunately, my attempts to reach out to the RCSC were met with unanswered calls, unlike some of my more fortunate peers who managed to establish contact. Subsequent conversations with RCSC representatives revealed that they would apprise the ministry after confirming the matter and that the ministry would subsequently communicate with us directly.

It is noteworthy that this criterion demanding an IELTS certificate was neither stipulated in the scholarship announcement nor had it been a prerequisite previously, considering that numerous acquaintances of mine had pursued their master's degrees in Thailand without this requirement. This situation has left us in a state of helplessness, exacerbated by the closure of the IELTS testing window and the logistical challenges of traveling from Monggar. While I personally might be willing to make such a journey, it cannot come at the expense of neglecting the hundreds of students relying on me for guidance—a responsibility I consider paramount. Presently, I find myself in a dilemma, alongside my fellow candidates, grappling with this unanticipated turn of events.

Amidst these circumstances, my colleagues' perspectives on this scholarship complication are increasingly fraught with concern. Rather than offering reassurance, some are suggesting that perhaps the opportunity is being redirected towards favored candidates, implying that my background within the ministry might be less advantageous in understanding these complexities. However, I am inclined to maintain a positive outlook. Given the integrity and visionary approach of both the ministry and RCSC within our well-governed nation, I believe such outcomes are highly unlikely. After all, we have submitted our applications, undergone medical evaluations, and quite possibly, our names have already been registered with the university.

I am appreciative of those friends who stand by me, asserting that my scholarship is unlikely to be revoked once awarded. They reassure me that the ministry will find ways to ensure my participation. I concur with this viewpoint, as it aligns with my perspective on the matter. My motivation for urging alternative solutions from the ministry stems from the fact that many scholarship recipients, myself included, lack the IELTS certification. Moreover, I have identified an incongruity, as this requirement was not included in the scholarship announcement published on the RCSC website.

In addition, I have received information from friends who underwent the same scholarship experience last year, indicating that the IELTS test could potentially be taken subsequent to arriving at the university. There are also discussions about the RCSC exploring the possibility of recognizing the English Language Proficiency Certificate (ELPC) issued by the Bhutan Council for School Examination and Assessment (BCSEA). In instances where unforeseen complications arise, especially ones that were not outlined prior to selection and announcement, it would be beneficial for both the RCSC and the ministry to act equitably and judiciously.

Education has no bar and no age limit

Education transcends barriers and defies age limitations. Upon learning that some of her acquaintances had embarked on a prolonged journey of learning English, my wife's enthusiasm to partake in the same endeavor was ignited. Enrolling alongside her friends, she now attends classes held from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM at Bajothang HSS, under the guidance of a dedicated NFE instructor.

Contemplating this prospect, she proposed, "What if I were to join my friends in learning English?" Recognizing the value in this proposition, I wholeheartedly endorsed her decision. In our contemporary era, lacking the ability to read and write one's own name can be disconcerting. This is a transformative opportunity, enabling personal growth and evolution. Over time, the horizon brightens, revealing previously unseen possibilities. Strength burgeons through life's myriad experiences, each moment precious and delicate, reminiscent of morning dew that vanishes unpredictably. Embracing existence's fragility, it becomes imperative to infuse life with significance, crafting an extraordinary existence.

I derive immense contentment from observing your proactive strides. As a result, I pledge to adjust my schedule, ensuring I return home promptly, allowing you to prepare diligently for your class sessions.

Continuing my narrative, I recounted, "Allow me to share the journey of my own education. Despite grappling with financial constraints and familial challenges, I persevered in pursuing education. Though memories of my mother are faint, the mere fact of her carrying me for nine months and giving birth stands as a monumental feat. My reverence for her knows no bounds. My father, burdened with the responsibility of sustaining our family, my sister's caretaking, and my brother's education, navigated an arduous path. Seeking an improved family dynamic, he chose to remarry. I was around five years old at that juncture, comprehending the complexities unfolding around me. My stepmother bore a son, who swiftly became an integral part of my world—a stepbrother cherished as my very own. Witnessing peers of my age embracing school life, my heartache was profound; I yearned to be part of that world. However, my father's refusal left me devoid of formal education for another five years, during which I devoted myself to nurturing my stepbrother. As he matured, we forged a remarkable bond—playing, bickering, and sharing tears.

When my stepbrother turned six, I was eleven—a pivotal moment as my father extended the opportunity of education to him. On that fateful March 10th of 1992, as my father escorted him to school, I pursued them with impassioned pleas. My longing for education was palpable. Compassionate educators, including the headmaster, recognized my plight and assured me they would address it. However, the enrollment age limit was nine, and I stood at eleven. I vividly recall Mr. PELA, a committee member, declining my admission due to surpassing the age threshold. Fueled by my genuine eagerness to learn, my father took decisive action, altering my birthdate through official channels. This marked my initiation into preprimary education—a transformative juncture. Presently, the government continues to champion free education, underscoring the divergence between then and now. Embrace this distinction, moving forward with wisdom.

Presently, my wife has attended three classes, exhibiting the ability to accurately transcribe the 26 letters of the alphabet. She adeptly spells words such as "morning," "afternoon," and "evening." Her journey, though in its nascent stage, mirrors the adage of a thousand-mile voyage commencing with a single step. While rueful of missed opportunities, she is resolute in embracing the emancipation education offers. To her, I convey my heartfelt wishes for success on this voyage."