SCE Commemorates Zhabdrung Kuchoe

On April 30th, the Samtse College of Education (SCE) joined the nation in observing Zhabdrung Kuchoe, which is an important event that occurs every 10th day of the third month in the Bhutanese calendar. This day is dedicated to honoring the memory of Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyel, who is widely regarded as the Founder of Bhutan. Zhabdrung played a crucial role in unifying the country under a dual system of governance, which brought the Sharchog Khorlo Tsibgay under the rule of the Drukpas. He also successfully warded off external threats from Tibet and Mongolia and internal strife from the Lam Khag Nga. Despite entering into permanent retreat in 1951, Zhabdrung’s death was kept a secret for 54 years due to concerns that it could lead to the disintegration of the newly formed nation.

On Zhabdrung Kuchoe, the faculty, administrative staff, and students of Samtse College of Education gathered to offer prayers for the peace and prosperity of the King, Country, and People. The SCE family recited Jigten Wangchuk over a hundred thousand times, followed by Zhabtoen, from 9am to 12pm. During the break, refreshments were served to the students and staff, sponsored by the college president.

Leki Norbu, the prayer councilor, emphasized the significance of Zhabdrung Kuchoe in honoring the selfless contributions of Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyel to the nation. He urged the people to use this day to accumulate merits and pray for the well-being of the country and its people.
One of the social work students, Tshering Zangmo, expressed her admiration for Zhabdrung’s role in bringing unity and peace to Bhutan. She felt that it was important to commemorate this day to remember his remarkable achievements. Similarly, one of the trainees, Kinley Om, felt blessed and honored to devote time from academic tasks to recite prayers and reflect on their own thoughts and actions.

SCE pays tribute to Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyel for his contributions to promoting peace, harmony, and cultural identity in Bhutan. During this auspicious day, the college offered prayers and butter lamps for the peace and prosperity of the Kings, Country, and People.