Majesty King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck graced the historic Passing Out Parade of the inaugural Gyalsung Cohort 1 of 2026. The landmark ceremony took place simultaneously across Bhutan’s four Gyalsung Academies, marking a monumental milestone in the nation’s history.
Attending the main ceremony at the Gyalsung Academy in Gyalpozhing, Mongar, His Majesty delivered a powerful address broadcast to Gyalsups gathered at the Pemathang, Khotokha, and Jamtsholing academies. In his speech, His Majesty emphasized that the National Service program is laying the foundations for Bhutan’s future. He outlined three critical pillars for a strong nation: strong people, a living culture, and a thriving economy. Using the metaphor of a beehive, His Majesty highlighted how collective effort and shared responsibility among Gyalsups, Desuups, and Pelsups create a unified and resilient Bhutan.
The completion of this cohort—which includes 44 young Bhutanese from overseas—brings the total number of Gyalsups to 9,860. His Majesty expressed deep gratitude to the royal armed forces, the Bhutanese public, and the Government of India for their critical support in constructing the training centers. The high-profile events were attended by members of the Royal Family, Prime Minister Dasho Tshering Tobgay, senior officials, and foreign dignitaries, celebrating national service as a vital social equalizer and a shared rite of passage for Bhutan’s youth.