Royal Kasho on Education Reform (Analysis)

The Kasho (Royal edict) addressing the need for education reform in Bhutan, issued by HM on the occasion of the 113th National Day in Punakha Dzong on 17th December 2020. The key points and themes presented in the Kasho are as follows:

1. Historical Development of Education: The Kasho highlights the historical development of education in Bhutan, starting from the early twentieth century. It acknowledges the efforts of past monarchs, such as Gongsa Ugyen Wangchuck and King Jigme Wangchuck, who established schools and emphasized the importance of both modern and monastic education. The passage of time has seen significant growth in the education system with an increasing number of schools, students, and teachers.
2. Success of Bhutan's Education Program: Bhutan's education program, encompassing both modern and monastic education, is regarded as a success story. It has resulted in a considerable increase in literacy rates, contributing to the development of administrative and technical personnel, reducing the reliance on foreign experts, and fostering national human resource development.
3. Need for Education Reform: The Kasho emphasizes the need for education reform in the face of the rapidly changing technological and globalized world of the twenty-first century. It mentions the significance of developing twenty-first-century competencies, such as critical thinking, creativity, problem-solving, and digital skills, among others. The goal is to create an education system that prepares students for the challenges and opportunities of the future.
4. Integrating Technology and Progressive Teaching Methods: The Kasho stresses the importance of integrating technology and progressive teaching methods into the education system. It advocates for the use of available technologies and adapting global best practices to create a teaching-learning environment that suits the needs of Bhutan.
5. Holistic Development: While preparing students for the future, the Kasho emphasizes the importance of prioritizing their holistic development. This includes nurturing caring, dependable, and honest individuals who embody Bhutanese identity, culture, traditions, and values. The aim is to create enlightened citizens who contribute to the betterment of both the local and trans-local communities.
6. Economic Opportunities and Job Creation: The Kasho highlights the need to create relevant jobs and economic opportunities in parallel with education reform. The goal is to ensure that students, after receiving a world-class education, can find gainful employment that aligns with their aspirations and provides meaningful livelihoods.
7. Vision and Roadmap: To initiate transformative changes in the education system, the Kashot calls for the establishment of a time-bound Council for Education Reform. This council is tasked with preparing a visionary and workable roadmap for the twenty-first century to support the Royal Government of Bhutan in its efforts to reform education. 

Overall, the Kasho highlights the importance of education as a cornerstone of nation-building and calls for a comprehensive and forward-looking approach to education reform that will equip Bhutanese youth with the skills and competencies needed to thrive in the rapidly evolving global landscape.