The Ministry of Education and Skills Development, in collaboration with Metazone Sports, Singapore, is introducing pickleball in Bhutanese schools to expand sporting opportunities and enrich studentsโ learning experiences.
The initiative supports the Ministryโs commitment to holistic student development beyond the classroom. As a rapidly growing global sport, pickleball offers an accessible and enjoyable way for students to stay physically active while developing essential life skills and values such as teamwork, discipline, resilience and sportsmanship in an inclusive environment.
As an initial step, Metazone Sports, in partnership with the Ministry’s Department of Education Programmes, conducted school awareness programmes in Thimphu, Paro and Sarpang, followed by a Training of Trainers for School Sports Instructors in August 2026 to prepare for the wider rollout.
On November 7, a symbolic handover of pickleball equipment was held at the Ministry. Mr. Jevan Tan, Founder of Metazone Sports, and his team handed over the equipment to the Honโble Secretary. A larger consignment is expected in the coming weeks to support implementation in schools.
Both parties reaffirmed their commitment to rolling out the initiative through a school-based approach, providing opportunities for participation and competition at school, national and eventually international levels, with support from Metazone Sports.
The Metazone team also shared a proposal to introduce a digital version of the traditional Bhutanese game Taag Dang Noor, offering students an engaging way to explore their cultural heritage while developing strategic thinking.
Both parties remain committed to building a sustainable school-based programme that enables children to enjoy sports, lead healthy lives and develop essential life skills through inclusive participation.
