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A new educational initiative in Gelephu is focusing on child safety, aiming to increase awareness regarding sexual exploitation, harassment, and the importance of respectful behavior among students. The program is part of the broader social development efforts associated with the vision for the Gelephu Mindfulness City.
On September 1, 2026, the organization RENEW (Respect, Educate, Nurture and Empower Women), in collaboration with the Department of Surface Transport under the Ministry of Infrastructure and Transport, conducted the training as part of the ACCESS Project in Bhutan. The sessions were held at Sherzhong Primary School, Tarathang Primary School, and Norbuling Central School.
The program reached 163 students, including 81 boys and 82 girls, aged 10 to 14. Organizers stated that this age group is at a critical stage of development, making it essential to provide education on personal boundaries, consent, and the recognition of inappropriate behavior. A primary goal of the initiative was to equip students with the confidence to identify potential risks and to understand the reporting mechanisms available to them if they feel unsafe.
The initiative emphasized that effective safeguarding requires more than a single intervention; it necessitates a sustained commitment from schools, families, and the community to ensure that reporting pathways remain accessible and that students feel supported. By fostering an environment of gender sensitivity and mutual respect, the program seeks to integrate these values into the daily culture of the schools.
Proponents of the program noted that as Gelephu continues to develop, the wellbeing and protection of its youngest citizens remain a central component of the city’s long-term vision. The initiative highlights the necessity for institutions to maintain clear, reliable safeguarding practices to ensure that children can learn and grow without fear or stigma.
Article and image source: dailybhutan.com
