Thinley Jurme
(Content Writer)
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A Nation in Transition
Bhutan, a landlocked Himalayan kingdom sandwiched between two global behemoths, known for coining the concept of Gross National Happiness, has been taken through a storm with the emergence of the digital economy, leading to a tectonic shift in its educational system.
In recent years, the diminutive nation has integrated a plethora of innovative digital technologies into various sectors of its economy. This technological revolution has opened doors for financial growth and innovation in the country. The increased usage of digital platforms for financial transactions is self-evident through the use of various payment apps such as mBOB, mPAY, tPAY, and many more. The introduction of mobile banking has paved the way for seamless and convenient economic transactions, reducing the need for traditional payment methods.
Simultaneously, the arrival of e-commerce has served as a catalyst in a monumental shift in Bhutan's education system. The government, recognizing the importance of the digital economy, has begun equipping its youth with the fundamental skills to navigate through the ever-evolving global economic landscape. Educators have begun endorsing digital literacy and the incorporation of technology into the education curriculum. Schools in the country have embraced e-learning platforms not only to offer unlimited archives of learning material related to a wide array of subjects but also to enable students to access resources beyond the confines of traditional classroom settings. The massive shift in teaching methodologies has enhanced the learning experience for students and has also fostered a culture of innovation amongst the budding generation of today.
The digital economy plays a key role in addressing Bhutan’s geographical limitations. Online education has bridged the gap between the bustling urban centers of the city and remote, far-flung rural villages, ensuring that all students, regardless of their location, have access to quality education. This aligns with Bhutan's resolute commitment towards the promotion of sustainable development and also narrows the gap between the socio-economic classes of the nation.
Although Bhutan is rising and acclimatizing itself to the continuously evolving global economic landscape, challenges such as poor internet connectivity and a lack of access to basic technological devices persist. Developed urban regions have embraced the benefits of the digital economy while underdeveloped rural regions continue to be plagued by significant financial and infrastructural limitations.
As Bhutan traverses her way into the world of the digital economy and e-commerce, she trudges through a path riddled with potholes and dead ends. However, with firm resolve and relentless determination, we can transform our current economic landscape and reshape the way we perceive the world. An emphasis on digital literacy and the integration of technology into our education system is not only vital in securing a seat among global superpowers but is also parallel to our unique policy of Gross National Happiness.