Gyalsung services

1. Preparing for Gyalsung

    

2. Gyalsung training

   Gyalsung Training is a program designed to empower Bhutanese youth with essential skills and knowledge for a successful future. Gyalsung Training is a year-long program divided into two broad categories, Horizontal Programs and Vertical Programs, taken over three phases, forming part of the larger Gyalsung journey.
   
   

   Horizontal Program

   The Horizontal Program cuts across all four Academies and comprises Phase 1, Basic Military Training and Phase 2, National Education/life Skills, both Phases completed within the first three months of enlistment.

   During Phase 1, participants undergo military training, also known as Basic Military Training (BMT). The BMT is designed to instill mental and physical resilience and develop camaraderie by having participants experience the challenges of military service, including physical fitness, weapon handling, strength training, obstacle course, and route march.

   In Phase 2 of the Horizontal Program, time is devoted to other essential elements, including National Education, life skills, outdoor activities, and skilling activities. National Education instils national identity and pride in our Bhutanese youth. Participants learn about the country’s history, constitution, core values, national security and foreign policy issues.

   Life Skills are another critical component of the Gyalsung Training, and it focuses on developing essential life skills for participants. These skills include critical thinking, problem-solving, communication, mindfulness, entrepreneurship, emotional intelligence, media literacy, financial literacy, and cybersecurity.
   
   

   Vertical Program

   The Vertical Programs are specific to each academy and will last up to 6 months. Specific academies have been identified to focus on skilling the youth in four areas; Food Security, Home Security, ICT Security and Community Security.

   These Vertical Programs can and will be modified and updated over time to cater to the country’s changing needs.

    

   Skilling Program : Food Security Skilling

   Under the Food Security Skilling program, the Gyalsars will receive training in agriculture-related knowledge and skills, with a focus on technology. The program aims to impart skills in protected agriculture, agriculture technology, climate change adaptation, drip irrigation, agribusiness, and community services. The focus is on bringing advanced technology to Bhutan, and the country is partnering with countries like Israel to achieve this goal. This program is designed to ensure that a large enough population of Bhutanese have the knowledge to produce food to meet the needs of its population, and contribute to the country’s food security needs, as demonstrated during the COVID-19 pandemic.
   
   

   Why Food Security?

   Food security is a critical component for the well-being and survival of any country. The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the importance of having a secure and sustainable food system, as many countries faced disruptions in the global food supply chain. With food security, a nation is able to ensure that its citizens have access to sufficient, safe, and nutritious food at all times. It is the foundation for healthy communities and stable economies. Without food security, individuals, families, and communities are at risk of hunger, malnutrition, and poverty. Therefore, ensuring food security is crucial to building a sustainable and resilient future for our country.
   
   

   Broad Syllabus

   The program begins with an overview of the current state of food security in the country, including key challenges and opportunities. It then delves into the science of agriculture, covering topics such as soil health, plant physiology, and pest management. Students will learn about the latest agricultural technologies and techniques, including precision farming, hydroponics, and genetic engineering.

   In addition to agriculture, the program covers topics related to food distribution and logistics, including supply chain management, transportation, and storage. Students will also learn about food safety and quality assurance, including the principles of HACCP and food processing.

   The program also includes a strong emphasis on community engagement and entrepreneurship, with a focus on building sustainable food systems that are resilient to shocks and disruptions. Students will learn about the role of community organizations, cooperatives, and social enterprises in promoting food security and building local food systems.

   Overall, the skilling program for food security is designed to provide Gyalsars with a comprehensive understanding of the challenges and opportunities related to food security, and equip them with the skills they need to make a positive impact in their communities.
   
   

   What you will learn

   In a food security skilling program, you will learn various aspects related to food security such as:

   • Understanding the importance of food security
   • Identifying the key challenges and issues related to food security
   • Analyzing the impact of climate change on food security
   • Developing strategies and policies to address food security challenges
   • Understanding the role of different stakeholders in ensuring food security
   • Implementing best practices for food production, storage, and distribution
   • Understanding food safety and quality standards
   • Developing sustainable food systems
   • Conducting research and analysis on food security issues
   • Identifying and addressing food insecurity at the local, national, and global levels.
     
     

   Bio of Master Trainers

   Skilling Program : Home Security Skilling

   The Home Security Skilling program aims to provide the youth with skills in construction that are critical to the country’s development. The focus is on energy-efficient construction, plumbing, home electricals, woodworks, brickworks, emergency shelter construction, and landscaping. The program is designed to ensure that the Gyalsars know how to build good, liveable shelters quickly, especially during emergencies such as COVID-19, when there is a need to construct thousands of homes in a short time. Beside applying Home Security skill during crisis, the training shall include knowledge, experience that beautify public spaces in Bhutan or services for the underprivileged.
   
   

   What you will learn

   In a Home Security skilling program, you will learn various aspects related to food security such as:

   • Understanding the importance of Home security to Bhutan
   • TBD
   • TBD
     
     

   Skilling Program : ICT Security Skilling:

   ICT skilling, or Information and Communication Technology skilling, cannot be overemphasized in today’s digital age. ICT has become an integral part of our personal and professional lives, transforming our communication, work, learning, and access to information. Developing ICT skills is crucial for individuals, organizations, and societies as a whole. 

   The program will provide skills that are highly sought after the completion of the skilling course in the technology sector such as digital transformation, cyber security, data science, mobile application development and digital marketing. 

   ICT skills are of paramount importance in today’s technological era. It empowers individuals with the necessary competencies to thrive in the digital economy. It bridges the digital divide, fosters innovation, facilitates communication, and adapts to a rapidly evolving technological landscape. By investing in ICT skilling initiatives, individuals, organizations, and societies can unlock technology’s vast potential and leverage it for personal growth, economic prosperity, and societal advancement. It will also help Bhutanese youth to stay competitive in the global job market.
   
   

   What you will learn

   In a ICT security skilling program, you will learn various aspects related to food security such as:

   • Understanding the importance of ICT security
   • TBD
   • TBD
     
     

   Skilling Program : Community Security Skilling 

   The Community Security Skilling program is designed to provide the youth with skills in public order and management, search and rescue, fire and rescue, disaster response, traffic, and emerging issues like drugs. The program is designed to create a group of young people who are trained to handle emergencies and maintain order in their communities. This program will also help create a sense of civic responsibility among Bhutanese youth and prepare them to be active citizens who can contribute to the country’s development.
   
   

   What you will learn

   In a community security skilling program, you will learn various aspects related to food security such as:

   • Understanding the importance of community security
     
     
3. Gyalsung duty

   Gyalsung Duty is the next phase after completing Gyalsung Training for Bhutanese youth. It is a significant commitment that entails providing services to the nation and community when called upon until the age of 35 years. During this duty phase, Gyalsups carry a responsibility to contribute to the betterment of Bhutan through their dedicated service.

   The essence of Gyalsung Duty lies in its obligation to serve the nation. Gyalsups are expected to respond to the call of duty whenever the Gyalsung Headquarters calls for them. This duty can be categorised into two types: mandatory and voluntary.

    

   Mandatory duty calls for unwavering commitment, requiring Gyalsups to provide services regardless of location. When summoned for mandatory duty, it becomes their responsibility to fulfil their obligations, recognising the importance of their role in supporting and safeguarding the nation’s interests.
   
   

   Voluntary duty, similar to the selfless work of the De-suups, presents opportunities for Gyalsups to volunteer and contribute to their communities actively. This voluntary service allows them to give back to society, develop their skills, and foster connections with their peers and fellow Bhutanese youth.

   The scope of activities encompassed by Gyalsung Duty is diverse and impactful. Gyalsups may engage in various tasks and responsibilities, including community service initiatives to support social welfare, education, environmental conservation, and overall well-being. They may also be involved in security-related duties such as border patrolling and ensuring the nation’s safety. Additionally, Gyalsups may participate in public health initiatives, provide ICT support, and contribute to development and maintenance of Gyalsung Academies. A very big contribution during the Gyalsung Duty phase will be the service to the Tsa-Wa-Sum in disaster management and response in times of natural disasters.

   Gyalsung Duty is an esteemed commitment and an opportunity for citizens to contribute to the progress and development of their country. It offers a platform to develop skills, forge connections, and make a positive difference in the lives of their fellow citizens. By wholeheartedly embracing Gyalsung Duty, Bhutanese youth showcase their dedication, integrity, and commitment to building a better Bhutan.
   
   

4. Gyalsung reserve

   At the age of 35, Gyalsup will transit into the Reservist phase. As a Gyalsung Reservist, he/she is to be prepared to answer the call to duty if and when it arises.

    

   Gyalsung Reservists are expected to maintain their physical fitness, stay-up-to-date on current events and keep one’s contact information up-to-date in the national and Gyalsung databases. Gyalsups in this phase are expected to have attained a high level of understanding of the Gyalsung program and enriched themselves with numerous experiences and lessons and expected to contribute in intellectual, physical and social capacities.

    

   As a Gyalsung Reservist, he/she can take pride in the fact that being part of a long tradition of Bhutanese who have served Bhutan with honor and distinction. An individual’s continued commitment shall set an example for others to follow, with services rendered remembered for generations to come.

   Upon attaining the age of 45 years, a Gyalsung Reservist will complete their Gyalsung journey and may opt to join the Desuung program as part of the post Gyalsung engagement.
   
   

5. Post Gyalsung
   We understand that some Gyalsups may want to continue serving their country even after completing their Gyalsung Duty at the age of 45 years old. In fact, we are seeing this happening with the current De-suung program where individuals as old as 60 years are coming forward to serve. Therefore, if you are interested in continuing your service to the nation, Gyalsung Headquarters would gladly facilitate your transition from Gyalsup to a De-suup..

   De-suung is a voluntary national service program started in 2011 and this program will go side by side with Gyalsung. De-suung program offers you  an excellent opportunity for you to continue serving your country while developing new skills, building relationships with fellow De-suups, and contributing to your community.

   We encourage you to consider becoming a De-suup and continuing your journey of serving the country. We are confident that you will find it to be a rewarding experience.

   Thank you again for your service to the nation, and we wish you all the best in your future endeavors!
   
   

                                                                                                       Palden Drukpa Gyalo