Agency: On 22nd August, 2025, five schools in Thimphu are stepping into a new era of inclusive education as Special Olympics Bhutan equips them with sports equipment under the Unified Champion Schools (UCS) program. The initiative aims to create environments where students with and without disabilities can learn, play, and grow together.
Led by Dasho Dechen Wangmo, President of Special Olympics Bhutan, the handover ceremony highlighted the schools’ commitment to fostering inclusion, preparing student-athletes for Bhutan’s first Unified Champion Schools Competition in December 2025. The program goes beyond sports; it focuses on holistic development physical, emotional, social, and cognitive growth for children with disabilities.
Changangkha Middle Secondary School Principal Nyendo Sir noted the therapeutic and developmental benefits of sports, “Sports help children with disabilities grow physically, emotionally, socially, and cognitively. They act like therapy improving movement, senses, focus, and mental health. Unified Sports bring children with and without disabilities together to build bonds, share learning, play, and grow together. When we include, we all win.”
Dasho Dechen Wangmo added, “All children are equal. Children with disabilities should be given the same opportunities as others in games, studies, or any activities. Inclusive education ensures that every child can reach their full potential.”
Earlier in April 2025, 10 school sports instructors received specialized training to lead inclusive and unified sports, preparing the schools to provide meaningful opportunities for all students. Equipment distribution will continue to the remaining pilot schools outside Thimphu, ensuring nationwide readiness for the historic competition.
Through UCS, Special Olympics Bhutan is redefining how schools approach inclusion demonstrating that when children of all abilities are given equal opportunities, everyone benefits, and the community grows stronger.