
Kinley Bidha
Beyond Books: Swimming into Wellness at Paro College of Education.
In marking the Golden Jubilee of Paro College of Education, it is wonderful to note how much Paro College of Education has progressed and spent on the development of overall welfare of its students. One of the many noted facilities is the College Swimming Pool that you can see right away as you enter the College Gate. The building which stands tall with a unique architectural enigma, houses 3 floors. The swimming pool is located in the lowest floor where passerby can access the pool by entering the door on the bottom right of the building and walk straight through. However for official entry and access, a dedicated entry zone is located right behind the building where a student will be present to check your credentials and allow you in. It is now a popular spot for students to unwind, stay healthy and develop physically. Entering the pool area is refreshing after a long tiring day of classes.
No worries, the rules are strictly applied and upheld to ensure that all of the student trainees have a good and safe experience. The pool remains open during the academic year with well-timed slot for men and women so that the atmosphere remains open where each and every one of them gets their turn to swim. For example, women may have their pool time on Monday, Wednesday and Friday between 4:30 Pm to 6:30 Pm, with men getting their sessions on Tuesdays and Thursdays.
During weekends and holidays, the pools operate with extended hours of availability, offering women access between 9:30 Am and 12:00 noon and men between 2:00 and 4:30 Pm which is certainly a great balance for enjoyment and regular practice. As already mentioned, the pool has implemented a set of established rules to ensure a clean and safe experience. They must bring their ID, pay a minimal session fee (Via QR Code-no cash), and shower before they get in. Proper swim wear is requested for safety and respect within common space. Running, diving in shallow areas or eating within the immediate vicinity of the pool is not allowed, which shows how the college provides a strong emphasis on safe swimming conditions.
It is of utmost importance to consider one’s own personal safety while having fun in the pool. The pool has no designated lifeguard. The students are required to be cautious and observe all the safety protocols. Children below the age of 12 should be accompanied by an adult and visitors have to register before they can access the facility.
Personally speaking, what is most important is that the pool is not just a place to cool off. It is a reflection of how Paro College of Education has invested decades of meticulous planning as well as capital investment in student welfare. It reveals that the college does not only concern itself with our intellectual growth but also our physical and mental well-being in line with the vision of developing well-rounded future teachers.
Being a contented member of college during this 50th anniversary, I thank Royal University of Bhutan for having such an infrastructure on campus. And Paro College of Education for making every stay in the college worth the experience. It is a reminder that even though we admire our college’s proud history, we must move forward and propagate and preserve this institution for the future generations of students. Cheers to the 50 years of excellence and continued safe and joyful swimming at Paro College of Education.