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.