Yangtshel Wangyel, a student from the Royal Academy in Pangbisa, Paro won the 18th Golden Youth Award making a significant milestone in his academic journey. Along with the title, he earned a fully funded scholarship from The Bhutan Youth Development Fund to continue his studies at United World College in Thailand.
Ugyen Rigsel from Lamgong Higher Secondary School secured the first runner-up title, while Tshering Dorje from Gongzim Ugyen Dorji Central School and Sangay Drukdra from Phobjikha Central School bagged the second and third runner-up positions, respectively.
The award ceremony, held in Thimphu on March 20, was graced by Her Majesty Gyalyum Tseyring Pem Wangchuck. Held from March 13, the competition brought together 85 Class X students from schools across the country.
As part of the program, participants contributed to environmental sustainability by planting 1,000 saplings in Samarzinkha, Thimphu on March 16. This effort supports the โMountain to Mangrovesโ initiative, which aims to plant one million trees by 2033. They also received a Royal Audience with His Majesty The King on March 17, further enriching their overall experience.
For the first time, five students representing the Association of Bhutanese in Perth joined this yearโs program as observers creating opportunities to connect with their peers in Bhutan and share experiences.
Since its launch in 2008, the Golden Youth Award has offered 18 full scholarships to winners with more than 1,500 students participating over the years.
Initiated in 2005 by Her Majesty Gyalyum Tseyring Pem Wangchuck to commemorate the 50th Birth Anniversary of the Fourth Druk Gyalpo, Jigme Singye Wangchuck, the Golden Youth Award continues to nurture young leaders who excel in academics, sports, cultural activities, and community service.
#PhotoCourtesy: The Golden Youth Award Camp
