Samtse College of Education Hosts Advocacy Programme on Women’s and Girls’ Rights

Samtse College of Education hosted a high-level advocacy programme themed “Rights, Justice and Action for All Women and Girls” on 10^th March 2026 as a follow-up to the observance of International Women’s Day 2026. The programme was graced by Her Majesty Gyalyum Sangay Choden Wangchuck, underscoring Bhutan’s continued commitment to advancing women’s empowerment, mental health awareness, sexual and reproductive health, and the protection of girls’ rights.

In her keynote address, Her Majesty shared her experiences as a Goodwill Ambassador of the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), reflecting on her visits across the country and the challenges faced by women and young girls. Addressing a diverse gathering that included school principals, teachers, and students from across Samtse Dzongkhag, teacher educators and trainees from Samtse College of Education, local leaders, civil servants, and representatives from partner organisations, Her Majesty emphasised the important role educators play in shaping the values and attitudes of future generations. She encouraged them to promote fairness, empathy, and equality in their classrooms and reminded them that education is a powerful force in building a just and compassionate society.

Representatives from several organisations—including the National Commission for Women and Children (NCWC), PEMA Secretariat, United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), RENEW, the Department of Health, the Office of the Attorney General of Bhutan, and the Royal Bhutan Police—shared their initiatives and collaborative efforts to strengthen the protection and well-being of women and girls in Bhutan. Senior officials present included Cabinet Secretary Dasho Kesang Deki, Health Secretary Dasho Pemba Wangchuk, and Samtse Dzongda Dasho Melam Zangpo, along with officials from the Royal Bhutan Police and the Armed Forces.

During the presentations, speakers highlighted ongoing programmes addressing gender equality, sexual and reproductive health, mental health support, legal protection mechanisms, and community-based initiatives aimed at empowering women and safeguarding girls’ rights.

The programme concluded with an interactive question-and-answer session, providing participants with an opportunity to engage directly with the speakers on issues concerning women’s and girls’ rights.

In his closing remarks, Dr. Sonam Rinchen, President of Samtse College of Education, expressed gratitude to Her Majesty and the participating organisations for their continued support in strengthening awareness and collective action on gender equality and the protection of girls.

The event concluded with a photo session and lunch with Gyalyum Sangay Choden Wangchuck, marking a meaningful occasion that reinforced the importance of collaborative efforts in promoting the dignity, rights, and well-being of women and girls in Bhutan.