18/10/2024
Sherig Bhutan
The Hon’ble Lyonpo for Education and Skills Development, Yeezang De Thapa visited Ugyentse and Yoeseltse gewogs in Samtse on October 15 followed by visits to Sang-Ngag Chhoeling and Namgaycholing gewogs on October 16 where she engaged in productive discussions with the public to address various community challenges including those related to the Ministry.
During the meetings, Lyonpo expressed concern over school infrastructure highlighting the need for better toilets, sports amneities, libraries and transport. "These facilities are essential for the holistic development of students where they can thrive both academically and personally," she remarked. She assured the Ministry's commitment to addressing them as part of its long-term strategy.
Lyonpo highlighted the Ministry’s focus on enhancing health and nutrition in schools by increasing stipends and offering additional support stressing that good nutrition is essential for effective learning. She encouraged parents to take advantage of the available hostel facilities to create a more conducive learning environment for their children.
Apart from education, Lyonpo spoke on the government's Economic Stimulus Programme, a loan scheme designed to support agriculture and livestock ventures. She addressed common misconceptions about these loans and encouraged residents to explore the opportunities. Additionally, she clarified the criteria for a program that will support one child from each family to study abroad.
Updating the community on government initiatives, Lyonpo outlined various development plans in progress including road construction, rural insurance, internet services and contract extension for ESP and GSP staff with improved benefits, among others. She also shared plans to establish a youth center and a central school as part of broader efforts to boost infrastructure and provide essential services for youth.
Residents seized the opportunity to raise concerns related to lands, taxes, agriculture, water shortages and human-wildlife conflicts. Lyonpo assured them that these matters would be further discussed with the relevant ministries to find practical solutions.
Reaffirming the Ministry’s commitment to the gewogs, Lyonpo emphasised the critical role of the community in driving development efforts. She called for their continued support in effectively implementing the planned activities.
Overall, these visits allowed Lyonpo to engage directly with the community, gain valuable insights into their concerns and address them while also ensuring that policies and programs are aligned with the needs at the grassroots level.