NGAWANG JAMPHEL | Thimphu
Young people today are increasingly turning to online coaching through social media platforms for guidance on academic learning, career planning, motivation, and mental well-being.
At the centre of this transformation is a growing group of Bhutanese educators who are using digital platforms to reach students beyond the limits of traditional classrooms.
Among them is Sonam Tshering, a mathematics teacher and Deputy Principal at Druk School in Thimphu, whose free online lessons have quietly reached thousands of students across the country.
Through his social media platforms under the name Tutor ST, Sonam has delivered more than 150 hours of free mathematics sessions, uploaded 429 videos on TikTok, 248 videos on YouTube, and dozens of Facebook reels.
His online lessons are designed especially for students from Classes 6, 7, 8, 10, and 12, as well as graduates preparing for competitive examinations.
For many students, these lessons have become more than academic tutorials. They have become a source of direction and confidence.
Sonam Tshering says his motivation to provide free mathematics lessons online came from a simple but powerful observation: many Bhutanese youths are talented but lack access, exposure, and guidance.
“I am deeply inspired by the leadership of His Majesty the King, whose vision motivates me to contribute meaningfully to our youth,” he said.
He added that he noticed many students, especially outside urban centres, do not always receive personalised academic and career guidance. Therefore, social media became a bridge to reach them instantly and inclusively.
In Bhutan, access to structured career counselling remains limited in many schools, particularly in remote areas. For students preparing for board examinations or planning higher education pathways, digital learning platforms are gradually becoming an important supplement to classroom teaching.
Through short instructional videos, live sessions, and motivational guidance, Sonam helps students understand mathematics concepts, prepare for examinations, and develop effective study techniques such as active recall and spaced repetition.
Many students say these strategies have helped them study more confidently and independently. More importantly, his approach focuses not only on solving equations but also on building discipline and self-belief.
“At the core, I try to promote values like curiosity, self-confidence, and lifelong learning,” he said.
For decades, civil service and teaching remained among the most preferred career choices for many Bhutanese students.
While these professions continue to hold importance, exposure to online coaching and digital mentorship is gradually broadening students’ perspectives.
According to Sonam Tshering, online learning platforms are helping young people see possibilities beyond conventional career routes.
“Students are now exploring entrepreneurship, digital careers, freelancing opportunities, and skills-based pathways,” he said. “They are learning that success is not limited to one direction.”
This shift reflects a wider global trend in which students increasingly rely on online mentors for information about emerging industries such as artificial intelligence, digital marketing, and remote employment opportunities.
In Bhutan, where professional exposure can sometimes be limited by geography, digital access is opening new doors for students living outside major urban centres.
Sonam explained that his sessions often include discussions on career clarity, study planning, and long-term goal setting.
“Young people today want guidance not only on what to study but also on how to think about their future,” he said.
He believes that the shift toward independent learning and skills development encourages values such as creativity, adaptability, and responsibility.
Academic pressure remains one of the most common challenges faced by students preparing for examinations. For many learners, online mentoring platforms provide reassurance during moments of uncertainty.
Students frequently approach Sonam’s sessions seeking help not only with mathematics problems but also with managing stress, staying motivated, and overcoming fear of failure.
“Many students struggle with self-doubt,” he said. “Sometimes they only need encouragement to believe that they can improve.”
Through consistent online engagement, he shares personal experiences of challenges and learning journeys rather than presenting only success stories. This approach helps students relate to his lessons more easily.
He said authenticity is essential in digital mentoring.
“I try to be honest with students. I avoid unrealistic promises like guaranteed success,” he said. “Instead, I encourage them to think critically and make their own decisions.”
Such guidance is especially important at a time when social media content can sometimes create unrealistic expectations about academic achievement and career success.
Unlike formal counselling systems, online coaching through social media platforms remains largely unregulated. This makes responsibility and ethical awareness especially important for digital educators.
Sonam Tshering says he is careful to provide guidance only within areas he understands deeply, particularly education and mathematics.
“I believe honesty and integrity are very important,” he said. “Whenever students need advice beyond my expertise, I encourage them to consult professionals.”
He also emphasises the importance of encouraging students to stay grounded while dreaming big.
“Ambition should be balanced with responsibility,” he said.
Education experts say this balanced approach is necessary as more students rely on social media for guidance. While digital platforms can inspire and motivate, they cannot replace professional counselling services.
Sonam’s online teaching initiative demonstrates how social media can extend the reach of educators far beyond physical classrooms. Students from different parts of the country are able to access lessons at any time, regardless of location.
For learners in remote areas, this flexibility is particularly valuable.
Many students preparing for board examinations or competitive tests rely on recorded lessons because they can revisit complex topics multiple times. This ability to learn at their own pace improves confidence and understanding.
His lessons also encourage independent thinking rather than memorisation-based learning.
“I always try to help students understand concepts clearly,” he said. “When they understand ideas properly, mathematics becomes less frightening.”
Students who follow his sessions say the availability of free lessons reduces their dependence on private tuition, which can sometimes be expensive or difficult to access.
While online coaching is becoming increasingly popular, Sonam Tshering believes schools and colleges still play a central role in shaping students’ futures.
“Online platforms can inspire students,” he said. “But institutions provide structure, credibility, and long-term support.”
He suggested that educational institutions could strengthen career guidance programmes to complement digital learning initiatives.
“Schools can help students explore diverse career paths while promoting emotional resilience and holistic development aligned with Bhutan’s national values,” he said.
According to him, collaboration between teachers, counselors, and digital educators can create a stronger support system for young learners.
“Education should prepare students not only academically but also emotionally and socially,” he added.
