Scholarships for Higher Education (class XI & XII)

Objectives

To enable disadvantaged youth achieve a higher level of education so that they have more opportunities for further education, training or employment.

Brief Description

In Bhutan, education is provided free from primary to tertiary levels. However, there are limited school places especially in class XI, so many children have to opt for training, look for unskilled jobs or join private schools, which are beyond the means of many families. Admission into class XI in government run schools is granted based on merit alone. Therefore, depending on the number of seats available, the Ministry of Education sets the criteria in terms of percentage achieved in the Class X exams.  While children from higher income families who do not meet the criteria can go to the private schools, there are many who cannot afford it. They come from economically disadvantaged backgrounds, have little or no exposure and besides studying, have to work on the farms. Despite these disadvantages, they still achieve very good results, which, however, do not quite meet the criteria. This Scholarship Scheme for two years in Class XI and XII gives such children a ray of hope to continue their higher education. 

The recipients come from very poor and rural backgrounds that fall in the bracket of families living below the poverty line. They are usually the only members of the family receiving an education. Providing them with the means to complete Class XII makes a difference in their lives and also that of their families as they have more opportunities for further studies, training or employment. The beneficiaries are selected by the Ministry of Education through rigorous procedures.

Beneficiaries receive an award of Nu.28,000 - 30,000 per annum for two years. This helps to cover tuition and boarding costs.

Achievements

The scheme was initiated in 2002 with a commitment of Nu. One million per annum that provides for 15 scholarships every year. So far, 50  youth have successfully completed Class XII. While most are either employed or self-employed, a few are undergoing undergraduate level courses at the Royal University of Bhutan. 30 youth are presently benefiting from the scheme.