Inspiring Leadership: Vice Chancellor’s Visit Energises Students and Faculty at the College of Education

Samtse College of Education warmly welcomed the Honourable Dasho Chewang Rinzin, Vice Chancellor of the Royal University of Bhutan (RUB), for a two-day engagement that made a lasting impression on the college community. Dasho arrived on campus on 17 November 2025, marking the beginning of a meaningful visit aimed at strengthening the academic environment and inspiring both students and faculty.

The main address to B.Ed and M.Ed students was held the following morning, 18 November 2025, at 9:30 AM in the college auditorium. The programme opened with a welcome speech delivered by Mr. Pema Wangdi from the M.Ed programme, who extended warm greetings and expressed heartfelt appreciation for Dasho’s visit.

In his address, Dasho emphasised the importance of building knowledge, skills, and character within an environment grounded in discipline and strong support systems. He highlighted that meaningful education extends beyond classroom learning and requires students to cultivate good habits, refine their abilities, and uphold strong moral values. As future educators, he reminded students of their responsibility to embody professionalism and set positive examples for the generations they will teach. Dasho strongly stated that the vision of universities is to be a centre of excellence and enlightenment, with that being said, Dasho gave everyone a moment of reflection where students were asked to reflect on the question, “What is my purpose of being in SCE?”

The focus shifted on discipline and character where Dasho stressed that a disciplined environment is essential for academic and personal growth, urging students to remain focused, prepared, and committed to their learning. He encouraged them to approach their studies with seriousness and engage actively. A thought-provoking advice was given to students where Dasho said, “In today’s time, we should have the mindset of willing to learn, unlearn and relearn.” Dasho ended his presentation by making a remark that cultivating respect, honesty, integrity and humility is very important for everyone as future educators. With that, the presentation mainly highlighted knowledge, skills and character.

The session concluded with closing remarks from Mr. Kinley Wangdi, a second-year B.Ed English/Geography student, who expressed sincere gratitude to Dasho on behalf of the student body for his inspiring presence and valuable insights. Following the general address, Dasho conducted a dedicated session with B.Ed First-year students. This smaller and more personal interaction allowed the trainees to clarify their doubts, understand expectations, and receive direct encouragement from the Vice Chancellor.

After lunch, Dasho held a dedicated session with the faculty and staff, where he shared his insights and guidance in detail. He began by reflecting that in this first year, some trust has been built, some rapport has been established, and more than anything, he hoped for a university focused on education, research, and innovation for a prosperous and sustainable future. He spoke about institutional vision and policies, noting that in most cases, they are simple statements, mere formalities that mean nothing unless acted upon. Deposition or official words alone do not move people. The vision of RUB is to be a global beacon of enlightened education, with every member of the university contributing across all colleges.

Reflecting on vision and leadership, Dasho emphasised a sense of purpose and direction. He acknowledged that much lies ahead and stressed the importance of working together. He described the purpose of his visit as preparing the institution to face challenges, support leadership, and shape the future of Bhutan’s higher education system.

Dasho explained that the country is at a pivotal moment in its history, with rooms for extension for RUB as the highest levels of higher education. The university must be at the forefront in providing necessary leadership and shaping the country’s future. Collective effort is crucial; if faculty, staff, and students work together and leverage their strengths, the institution can achieve remarkable outcomes.

He emphasised his support for faculty, stating that in his capacity, he is available to provide resources, guidance, and institutional support. He described this period as an inflection point, noting that while there are many choices ahead, the primary choice is to act responsibly and collectively, given that the university is made up of educated and highly qualified people.

The Vice Chancellor spoke about the university’s potential and its role in national development, stressing that institutions like SCE must lead transformation. At the end of the day, as the largest higher education institution in Bhutan, RUB and especially SCE has a responsibility to build character, establish systems, and set policies that enable growth.

He addressed the importance of strategic planning, innovation, and global engagement. Faculty expertise, including international collaboration and expert consultations, is critical to make the university globally relevant, useful, and reputable. He stressed that a clear strategy and active local and international partnerships are essential to move the university forward.

Dasho spoke candidly about leadership, institutional culture, and faculty responsibilities. Colleges and offices must be constantly engaged, proactive, and collaborative. The environment should not be rigid or superficial; people must fit and function in flexible, positive, and ethical ways while remaining mindful of institutional goals.

He reminded faculty that they shape students’ futures and the culture of the university. While some tasks may be stressful or challenging, the mindset of commitment and enjoyment in work is essential. Integrity, honesty, and professionalism are central to public service and to guiding the next generation of educators.

The session concluded with a sense of shared responsibility, motivation, and a call to action to collectively contribute to making the university a globally enlightened, inclusive, and excellent institution. Dasho’s visit left the entire SCE community deeply inspired, reaffirming the college’s commitment to nurturing disciplined, knowledgeable, and character-driven future teachers who will contribute meaningfully to Bhutan’s education system.

Reported by Chimi Selden and Karma Dechen Tshering