Transforming Education: Insights from Dasho Vice Chancellor’s Visit to Samtse College of Education
Samtse College of Education had the privilege of hosting the distinguished Dasho Vice Chancellor and Madam Registrar during a two-day visit on the 8th and 9th of August 2024. The visit was marked by significant engagements with the college community, including the ceremonial offering of Trashi Khadar to the newly appointed President Dr. Sonam Rinchen, of the college.
During the visit, Dasho Vice Chancellor and Madam Registrar briefed the new President on the importance of his role, offering their best wishes for his tenure. On the afternoon of August 9th, they also held an interactive session with the college faculty, addressing several key issues and developments within the Royal University of Bhutan (RUB) and the broader national context.
Dasho emphasized the need for transformation in response to lessons learned from the COVID-19 pandemic, urging the College to redefine its role as part of this broader change. “We cannot continue to do the same things over and over again,” he remarked, highlighting the importance of innovation in education.
A focal point of Dasho’s address was the 13th Five Year Plan, which places significant emphasis on the digitalization of education and the internationalization of academic programmes. Dasho encouraged the College to enhance its visibility through programme diversification, rebranding efforts, and the accreditation of its courses, noting that the involvement of external partners is crucial to overcoming restrictions and fostering growth.
The faculty also voiced their concerns on various issues, including promotion criteria, faculty-student ratios, heavy workloads, and programme diversification. Dasho reassured them that RUB’s HR policies are currently under review, with a team of experts set to visit colleges to gather insights and suggestions to improve the HR framework. He urged the faculty to share their candid views to help shape meaningful reforms.
The visit concluded with a dinner hosted by the college in honour of Dasho Vice Chancellor and Madam Registrar on the evening of August 9th.
