Bhutan has taken a major step toward strengthening digital education with the launch of the UPSHIFT digital platform, which includes Google Classroom and the UPSHIFT National Dashboard, expanding access for students and teachers nationwide to transform ideas into practical solutions. The launch took place yesterday during the fourth National Innovation Challenge in Thimphu.
According to reports from 44 piloted schools, the use of Google Classroom indicated significant improvements in both teaching and learning experiences. Teachers reported a notable reduction in administrative workload, with automated tracking and grading systems streamlining routine tasks. Students also demonstrated higher levels of motivation and engagement by having all UPSHIFT learning materials in one accessible place.
This integrated and user-friendly digital initiative is a collaborative effort between the Ministry of Education and Skills Development, UNICEF Bhutan, the UNICEF Office of Innovation, and Google. It is designed for long-term sustainability, operating on existing infrastructure without additional licensing costs while prioritising equity, inclusion, and safety to support data-driven decision-making.
Following the launch, a nationwide rollout will include training for teachers and school leaders across all 264 UPSHIFT schools.
UPSHIFT Bhutan is a transformative youth skills development programme designed to equip individuals aged 9 to 24 with 21st-century skills such as critical thinking, creativity, collaboration, communication and an entrepreneurial mindset.
The UPSHIFT digital platform can be accessed at: https://upshift.education.gov.bt
