STAFF REPORTER | Thimphu
The Passing Out Parade (POP) for the Second Cohort of the 2025 batch of Gyalsung was held on 30 October, with simultaneous ceremonies taking place at the four Gyalsung Academies in Pemathang, Gyalpozhing, Khotokha, and Jamtsholing.
His Majesty The King addressed the across the four Gyalsung Academies from Thimphu.
His Majesty congratulated the Gyalsups and their families who were there to support them and celebrate with them, and said that this was a proud and emotional moment for everyone.
His Majesty said that the purpose of Gyalsung is to build strong foundations for the future. “ Our success as a nation will be by and for the people of Bhutan, and Gyalsung will strengthen generations of Bhutanese. “
His Majesty then outlined three keys that would unlock Bhutan’s success as a nation — the hive strategy, which encourages collective strength and collaboration; building a trust economy, where integrity and reliability are the foundation of national prosperity; and leveraging our small size to be agile, enabling Bhutan to adapt swiftly and effectively in an ever-changing world.
His Royal Highness Gyaltsab Jigme Dorji Wangchuck, Prime Minister Dasho Tshering Tobgay, the Chief Operations Officer of the Royal Bhutan Army Lieutenant General Batoo Tshering, and the Chairperson of the Privy Council Lyonpo (Dr.) Tandin Dorji presided over the Passing Out Parade ceremonies at Gyalpozhing, Jamtsholing, Khotokha, and Pemathang respectively.
The presence of Venerable Lopens, senior Armed Forces officers and government officials, and the families of the Gyalsups underscored the importance of the milestone event.
The Passing Out Parade marks a significant milestone and an important rite of passage for the 1,992 young men and women of the Second Cohort, symbolizing their transition from Gyalsung Cadets to Gyalsups. The occasion celebrates not only their achievements but also readiness to shoulder their responsibilities as loyal and capable citizens of Bhutan.
The present cohort also includes 31 young Bhutanese living overseas who have returned to undergo Gyalsung Training. This is a testament to the strong support for Gyalsung by all Bhutanese families and our youth including those living abroad.
The successful POP marks the culmination of the entire 2025 training cycle, bringing the total number of trained Gyalsups to 8,322. The Gyalsups enter into the National Service Duty (NSD) phase. These Gyalsups will immediately apply their acquired skills to critical national projects, including Border Duty, infrastructure development for the Gelephu Mindfulness City, and the ongoing construction of the Gyalsung Academies. Furthermore, the previous cohorts have already demonstrated the program’s impact through service in national events and international relief missions, solidifying the POP as the moment where training transforms into a lifelong commitment of service to the King, country and people.
