Merak native Pem Choki, 18, has never gone to school. She was enthralled with Gyalsung’s mission to empower youngsters when she was first introduced to it by her local gup. Pem chose to enroll in the program in spite of the difficulties that may arise from her lack of formal schooling. Pem Choki was committed to provide meaningful service to her King and nation. The trip was about taking advantage of the chance to develop and contribute, not only about facing personal obstacles. She joyfully participated in yesterday’s Gyalsung Academy’s Passing out Parade with the first class of 573 Gyalsups. His Royal Highness Prince Jigme Namgyel Wangchuck, His Majesty the King, Her Majesty the Gyaltsuen, and His Royal Highness Prince Ugyen Wangchuck attended the event. The Gyalsung cadets participated in a demanding three-month program of Basic Military Training, which included instruction in national education, choeshey larim, driglam namzha, leadership development, and vital life skills.
Phuntsho Choden, a student at Bayling Higher Secondary School in Trashiyangtse, made a bold decision by enrolling at Gyalsung instead of college. According to Pem Choki, her first day of training was very difficult, but she eventually adjusted with the help and encouragement of her teachers. Physical training was the most difficult for her, but she overcame the program’s requirements because of her perseverance. Penjor Gyalsung was a life-changing event for Sonam Sersang. The first cohort of 2,001 Gyalsups celebrated their passing out parade yesterday, marking a historic milestone. The second group of 1,800 cadets will be welcomed by the academies. They will start training on December 16 and graduate on March 15, 2025.