Bhutanese values at the core of Cambridge Aligned Curriculum, says Education Minister

During the 3rd Sitting of the Fourth Session of the Fourth Parliament, the Member of Parliament (MP) from the Gelephu constituency, Harka S. Tamang, raised a question to the Education Minister regarding the Ministry of Education and Skills Development (MoESD)’s efforts to align the education system with the Cambridge standards. 

MP Harka S. Tamang expressed concerns that the Bhutanese identity, including language, cultural heritage, and the national values that make the country unique, might be diluted in the process.

The MP then asked whether any specific innovations or policies were being introduced to ensure that Bhutan’s cultural foundations are not compromised.

In response, the Education Minister, Yeezang De Thapa, said, “No education is complete without values.” 

Lyonpo Yeezang De Thapa explained that Bhutan’s education curriculum is aligned with the Cambridge curriculum, and further added, “The education that the youths receive should not only benefit themselves but the country in general too.”

She further clarified that the focus on STEM education is designed to be both locally rooted and globally competent. 

Lyonpo emphasized that its alignment with the Cambridge curriculum will not lead to the disappearance of the country’s culture and traditions.

Lyonpo also shared that the Education Kasho itself highlights the importance of 21st-century education. Therefore, the ministry’s alignment of Bhutan’s education curriculum is also guided by the country’s 10X economic transformation, which sets ambitious goals for future generations. 

Lyonpo Yeezang De Thapa said, “We have made STEM our everyday language, as it also will fulfill the needs in future GMC. Moreover, the country’s culture, deeply rooted in GNH values, is also being approved by the Cambridge officials.”

Lyonpo further shared that subjects such as Dzongkha and History, both of which encompass the country’s culture, traditions, and national identity, remain integral parts of the curriculum. This is why these subjects continue to be taught in schools and colleges nationwide.