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Paro College of Education: Learning in the Lap of Nature
Kinley Dema
Paro College of Education: Learning in the Lap of Nature
Nestled in the tranquil folds of western Bhutan, Paro College of Education is more than just a place to pursue academic goals; it is a haven where nature, peace, and knowledge harmoniously coexist. Surrounded by majestic mountains, ancient forests, and emerald rice fields that seem to whisper tales of peace and harmony, this college is a beacon of learning and contemplation in the lush and spiritual valley of Paro.
Nestled in the tranquil folds of western Bhutan, Paro College of Education is more than just a place to pursue academic goals; it is a haven where nature, peace, and knowledge harmoniously coexist. Surrounded by majestic mountains, ancient forests, and emerald rice fields that seem to whisper tales of peace and harmony, this college is a beacon of learning and contemplation in the lush and spiritual valley of Paro.
Place and Context
Paro College of Education, one of the constituent colleges of the Royal University of Bhutan, is located in the Paro Dzongkhag (district), which is well-known for its spiritual sites, cultural heritage, and beautiful landscapes. The college is situated just above the valley floor, offering a view over the large, fertile Paro Valley. Every look outside the classroom window feels like a retreat into an exquisite painting thanks to this unique setting.
The photograph presents the college infrastructure in contrast to the green slope of a hillside covered in trees. The campus buildings’ whitewashed walls, finely carved wooden windows, and gently sloping red roofs are examples of traditional Bhutanese architecture harmonizes with the natural landscape. The emerald shade of the verdant hills that cradle the valley is echoed by the lush paddy fields that stretch
out in neat rows beneath the campus.
A Soulful View: The Paro Valley
A panoramic view of the Paro Valley from the college campus is shown in the second picture. From this location, one has the privilege to witness nature’s grandeur unfolding in layers of golden fields, quaint villages, and far-off mountain ranges covered in shifting clouds. Occasionally, the sun breaks through the sky, illuminating the region with gentle light that seems to be a gift from above. The view is not just beautiful, it is devotional. As a student, walking down the cobblestone paths of the campus with this view in sight is truly a meditative experience. The air is crisp and clean, scented faintly with pine and wildflowers, and birdsong fills the silence between the soft murmurs of nearby streams.
The Healing Power of Nature
Paro College is not just an institution for learning but also an institution for healing, awakening, and transformation. The natural environment plays a vital role in nurturing the minds and spirits of its students. In a world of stress, noise, and distraction, Paro’s quiet pace of life is a welcome relief. Many students speak of how a simple morning walk around campus brings clarity to the mind and calm and clear- headed. the golden hue of the rice fields in the morning light, the sound of the wind whispering through the pine trees, and the distant ringing of prayers form a soothing background for learners. It is impossible to avoid feeling a strong sense of connection to one’s surroundings, culture, and self.
A Place of Learning and Reflection
The college promotes holistic development in addition to academic excellence. Here, education has a strong foundation in Bhutan’s cultural and spiritual ideals, cultivating both intellectual development and Gross National Happiness. Students are continuously reminded of the value of mindfulness, respect for the environment, and inner peace.
Faculty members often use the environment as an extension of the classroom By holding classes outside, encouraging meditative reflection under the shade of trees, or conducting environmental research within the local ecosystem. Here, education is immersive, experiential, thoroughly customized.
The Emotional Connection
Being a part of Paro College of Education means having a strong emotional connection to the land. It is to awaken every morning to a view that makes one feel thankful. It is to observe the changing of the seasons in one’s own growth as well as in the surroundings. The green of summer turns to gold in fall, symbolizing the maturity and insight that come with age.
Long after graduation, many alumni are still touched by the simple recollections of foggy mornings and the beauty of a sunbeam breaking on valley floor which remains as the definition of nostalgia for them. Long after graduation, many alumni are still touched by the simple beauty of a sunbeam striking the valley floor, the sound of monks singing from far-off temples, and the memories of misty mornings.
A Place You Carry With You
In a fast-paced, constantly changing world, Paro College of Education offers something rare: stillness. It offers an environment where living and learning are indelibly intertwined with the rhythms of nature. Whether walking through the rice paddies to class, or standing in awed silence watching the sun set over the valley, there is something truly magical about this place. Here, amidst lush green hills and golden fields, you find beyond book smarts, you discover a deeper sense of peace, purpose, and belonging. Paro College of Education isn’t just where you learn; it’s where you truly experience living.
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And just like that, I was enrolled in college – a new chapter began!!
Bishnu Sharma
And just like that I was enrolled in college – a new chapter began!
A cold gentle breeze touched my cheeks as I stepped out of the taxi in Paro, the serene valley of rice. It was the month of July 2023, and I had come all the way from Chhukha, carrying dreams and quiet excitement for what lay ahead. As someone coming out of school recently without much experience about the outer world, a wave of nervousness washed over me, a mixture of excitement and fear at the same time. Paro College of Education, majestically resting at the bank of Pa-chhu, rose before me, my new home, and it was a cluster of traditional Bhutanese buildings nestled against the backdrop of towering, pine-covered hills. With every second passing by, the air became thicker with the scent of woodsmoke and damp earth from the recent rain that poured all weeks, a far cry from the familiar bustle of my hometown.
As I walked in, the college courtyard was busy with a lot of activities which I was not anticipating to be honest. Students, dressed in their ghos and kiras and their voices were soothing and melodic hum of Dzongkha and mostly the Tsangla language into the ear for a new comer like me. I felt a sense of uneasiness into this very new experience and the new encounter, but innocently thanked my god and family for all that I was going to receive hereafter.
Hesitantly, I approached a group of students chatting near the registration table. They greeted me with warm smiles and genuine curiosity, asking about my background and what brought me to Paro. Their openness immediately put me at ease and one of the senior councilors, a kind-faced boy, volunteered to be my guide, showing me and escorting me to my new home from now, hostel at Nangkar-Choeling Campus.
As we walked, he shared stories about college life – the challenges of the curriculum, and the deep sense of community that permeated the institution. Paro College of Education is not just about academic learning, but it is also about cultivating a commitment to service, compassion, and the Gross National Happiness (GNH) philosophy that guides our beautiful country.
After I settled at my new hostel, the orientation ceremony was held in a large hall popularly known as Manjushree Hall. The air giggled with anticipation as faculty members, along with Deans and senior councilors and the new students who were uncertain about the atmosphere waited for their welcome notes and familiarization. The President, Dr Dorji Thinley (PhD), with a gentle smile, addressed us with a heartfelt speech about the importance of education, the values of the college, and the responsibility we have to shape the future of Bhutan as a teacher in near future. With his words, I was moved deeply and realized how lucky for getting enrolled in one of the best colleges in Bhutan, igniting a sense of purpose within me.
After completing the orientation and getting familiar with the campus, the fresh morning gradually gave way to evening. I stood in the college courtyard, watching the sun slowly set behind the mountains, coloring the sky in shades of orange, pink, and purple. The air was calm, and the only sound was the soft flutter of prayer flags near Manjushree. My nervousness had eased, replaced by a growing sense of comfort and excitement for the journey ahead. All in all, my first day at Paro College of Education was more than just the beginning of my academic journey – it marked the start of a deep personal transformation. I felt certain that this beautiful college, nestled in the heart of the Himalayas, would shape me in ways I could not yet imagine, teaching me not only about education, but also about life, purpose, and true happiness. I only hope that my years here will be as special and meaningful as the sunlight that brightens the world.
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My First Day at a Teacher Training College – By Kinley Bidha, 2PCA
Kinley Bidha
My First day at a Teacher Training College
I heard from my seniors that college life is full of enjoyment and unforgettable memories. But for me it is a little different. I am just an ordinary college girl on a quest for knowledge and not just for a degree certificate. I came here to discipline myself with values and to be precise, a responsible contributing person and a change driver in the Education system.
Oh wait!!I totally forgot to introduce myself, my name is Kinley Bidha, and I am currently in my 2 nd Year pursuing Bachelors of Degree in Primary Education (General).
When I first arrived to pursue my dream, the long-awaited journey to become a teacher and follow my heart, I took a deep breath as I walked through the college gate. The first beautiful sight I saw was Paro Dzong, standing tall and majestic, with the National Museum of Bhutan (Paro Ta Dzong) just above it. I gently patted myself and whispered, “Kinley, you’re lucky to be part of this college.” It was just the beginning of my journey, and I knew there was so much more ahead. So, I smiled and thought, Relax, I’m taking you along.
Next, I reached the hostel campus. The buildings were a beautiful blend of traditional Bhutanese and modern architecture, something that caught my attention right away. The rooms were cozy, with two students sharing one. As I walked into my room, I smiled at the empty walls and softly said, “I’ll fill you with colorful notes and dreams.” Whether by fate or coincidence, I was welcomed by a group of smiling girls, the ones who would become my roommates and friends.
Delighted and full of energy, I walked down to the academic block. Once more, I stood numb with wonder. The look was stunning! I reminded myself, “A week from today, I’ll begin my education in one of these rooms.” I strolled around attempting to figure out the class designations – “SB 111”? “SB 222”? I was used to section titles like “1PCA,” and I thought, “Where on earth is that? ” It was amusing but thrilling to know that I was beginning a new chapter.
Then I visited the college library and my jaw actually dropped. As a book lover, I had the feeling that I had entered a treasure chest. Shelf after shelf, stacked with books, whispered secrets of knowledge and exploration. It was my new favorite place right away. On my way out, I passed by the computer labs – three of them! I remember sneaking by bare feet like a sly thief, peeking into each room and admiring the rows of desktops.
The next day, I met a few of our tutors. At first, I felt like a fish out of water. I was lost and nervous. But such apprehensions dispelled fast. The tutors were by no means intimidating. Instead, they were extremely warm, welcoming, and encouraging. They left their warmth as an indelible impression on me
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Kinley Wangchuk
Kinley Wangchuk currently serves as the Librarian at Paro College of Education under the Royal University of Bhutan. He earned a Diploma in Language and Communication Skills and a B.A. in Language and Culture from the College of Language and Culture Studies. Kinley’s professional journey includes roles as Administrative Assistant, Mess In Charge, and Junior Librarian at the College of Language and Culture Studies from 2015 until October 2021. He has been serving at Paro College of Education since November 2021 to the present.
Email: kinleywangchuk.pce@rub.edu.bt
Notice Inviting Tender (Sport lab & ICT Equipment)
NOTICE INVITING TENDER
Paro College of Education invites eligible Bhutanese bidders to submit sealed bids for the Supply of ICT Equipment and Sports Laboratory & Swimming Equipment at Paro College of Education.
Bidding document : Download from College Website (www.pce.edu.bt)
Duration of sale of bidding document: 20/12/2023 to 10/01/2024
Time and last date of submission : 10/01/2024 on or before 1200 hours
Date of opening tender : 10/01/2024 at 1500 hours
For further information, please contact the Procurement Section at 08-272263 during office hours.
Click Here to Download Tender document for ICT Equipment
Click Here to Download Tender document for Sport lab
Administrative Officer
STEM
STEM Education Centre, PCE
Spurred by the transformational education reform taking place in the country today, Paro College ol Education is positioning itself strategically to play a lead role in this process of re-purposing the education system. The focused and comprehensive reform process states in unequivocal terms the urgency and centrality of STEM education. PCE aspires to the full development of STEM education, research and training in the Rinpung Choeling Campus blessed by the magnificent Rinpung Dzong. The plan is foster creativity, divergent thinking, deep knowledge and understanding of the fundamental disciplines, use of technology, innovation, practical application of knowledge, and problem solving in the context of realworld challenges. It is expected that with deep knowledge, understanding practical application and values of STEM, teacher education graduates will be well qualified and competent to foster an active culture of STEM learning and teaching in Bhutanese schools.
“We must prioritise self-discovery and exploration, and involve learners in
the creation of knowledge rather than making them mere consumers of it.
We must make STEM subjects part of their everyday language”.
(The Royal Kasho on Education Reform, 17 December 2O2O)
STEM Education Centre will
- Work closely with the College management and key stakeholders within the university and beyond to set up a clear vision, action plan and other initiatives for the development and propagation of STEM
- Foster an active and ever-evolving culture of knowledge and application related to STEM education and research in light of the Royal vision for education, local and global perspectives and developments in STEM education, national STEM education policies and emerging discourses, and STEM education courses and current developments in the field in reputed teacher education institutions in the
- Develop a clear roadmap for STEM education and research development for PCE and ensure the full achievement of the goals set for the College.
- Play a lead role in setting up a STEM Education Centre in the College’s Rinpung Choeling campus.
- Organize STEM education and research events and other forums for students and STEM education professionals in the country.
- Based on international and local bestpractices, critically review all STEM related modules in PCE’s Masters and Undergraduate programmes.
- Set up plans and strategies for STEM innovation projects forthe College and the wider STEM education community.
- Work with key stakeholders within the Ministry of Education, the Druk Cyalpo’s lnstitute, schools, industry, and relevant local and international partners to promote STEM education and research in the country.
- Mobilize resources for the development of STEM teaching, research and professional
- Ensure the full integration of STEM into all relevant programmes taught in the College, quality delivery of the modules, and development of graduate competencies relevant to STEM learning in Bhutanese.
Project Officer
Vacancy Announcement
Paro College of Education, Royal University of Bhutan, Paro is pleased to announce vacancy for the immediate recruitment as detailed below:
Position Title : Assistant Project Officer
Position Level : PL 08
Type of Appointment : Contract (Initial Contract for 1 Year, renewable up-to 3 Years)
Minimum qualification : Bachelor’s Degree
Eligibility criteria : Minimum aggregate of 60% each in class X (English + best 4 subjects) and class XII (English + best 3 subjects), and 55% in Bachelor Degree (Honors) or 60% in Bachelor (General). However, the benchmark criteria will not apply to those with minimum of five years of relevant work experience.
A candidate must:
- Be a Bhutanese citizen
- Have attained at least 18 years of age but not more than 45 years.
- Meet the minimum qualification requirements.
Documents required to be submitted (Mandatory documents):
- Duly filled up RUB Employment Form (available online at pce.edu.bt) (Clear Copy).
- Academic Transcripts and certificates of class X, XII and Degree (Clear Copy).
- Valid Security Clearance Certificate (approved online Clear Copy).
- Valid Medical Fitness Certificate (Valid for 6 months from the date of issue of certificate).
- Citizenship Identity Card (Clear Copy).
- Audit Clearance Certificate, if employed (Clear Copy).
- No Objection Certificate, if employed (Clear Copy).
- Experience certificate(s)/documentary evidences(s) to confirm of having relevant work experience (Clear Copy: only for those who have work experience).
Interested candidates are requested to apply via online portal RUB IMS (applicants are required to register job application via https://ims.rub.edu.bt) on or before 04:00 PM of 3rd November, 2023 (hardcopy will not be accepted). For further information, please contact the Administrative Assistant at 08 271917 during office hours and kindly note that only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for interview.
ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICER