To provide youth with a better understanding of the GNH concept, Gross National Happiness Centre Bhutan (GNHCB) is conducting a month-long GNH advocacy programme in schools, colleges and institutions in the country.

The team plans to visit at least seven colleges and 12 schools across the country.

Besides emphsising GNH values, the programme also aims to discuss contemporary issues facing the youth.

The officiating executive director of GNHCB, Sonam Tsoki Tenzin, said that true happiness was not only necessary but also viable and achievable in all its meaningfulness. “Towards this end, the organisation initiated numerous programmes to help realise our collective dream of seeing a truly fulfilled society.”

The programme began on August 7 at the Khesar Gyalpo University of Medical Sciences (KGUMS). It involves introduction on GNH, its four pillars and nine domains, introduction to basic meditation sessions, current youth issues, importance of formation of GNH clubs and projects in institutions, and enhancing the GNH centre’s efforts.

At Royal Thimphu College (RTC) yesterday, programme officer with the centre, Wesel Dema said that people in the villages might not know the definition or may not be able to spell out pillars and domains. “However, they are living its essence. All pillars, indicators and domains of GNH are interlinked.”

GNH survey was conducted twice in the country, 2010 and 2015.

The GNHCB also conducts programmes such as GNH youth leadership programme to encourage and make youth realise their potential to be leaders.

Press release from the centre stated that it was essential to reach out to children and youth to promote GNH values and also create awareness about activities of the centre.

The programme is expected to end on September 6.

Rinchen Zangmo

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