More than 1,500 young Bhutanese have registered for the “Innovate for Gelephu Mindfulness City (GMC)” program, though only 500 will be selected for this cohort—underscoring a remarkable enthusiasm for civic innovation among the country’s youth.
The program, envisioned by His Majesty The King, places young Bhutanese at the heart of Bhutan’s first experiment in values-led development, where economic growth, environmental stewardship, and spiritual well-being converge.
The excitement is palpable among participants, many of whom see the initiative as a platform for creating meaningful, community-centered solutions.
“I want to work on climate-smart agriculture. If our farmers thrive, the nation thrives,” said Sonam Zangmo, a 24-year-old graduate from the Royal University of Bhutan (RUB).
“For me, it’s about tech solutions that reflect our culture and values, not just apps,” noted Karma Dorji, a software developer from Thimphu.
Aspiring civil servant Dechen Wangmo added: “Young people should help shape policies that affect our future.”
For Tashi Gyeltshen, a participant from Monggar, the program is about collective responsibility. “It’s not only about business—it’s about building solutions that matter to communities,” he said.
“Innovate for GM”C is Bhutan’s flagship youth program, channeling energy into nation-building through four innovation pathways: policy, entrepreneurship, non-profit projects, and blended ‘fourth sector’ initiatives. Selected participants will form dynamic teams, guided by mentors, industry experts, and policymakers. Their solutions will be tested in the GMC context, with potential for scaling across Bhutan.
Unlike conventional incubators, the program emphasizes mindful experimentation rooted in Bhutanese realities. Participants will engage in design thinking, systems analysis, and public policy training, complemented by field visits to Phibsoo Wildlife Sanctuary, Manas National Park, and cross-border trips to Assam and Shillong. Later phases will include exposure to innovation hubs like the Jigme Namgyel Wangchuck Super Fab Lab and Thimphu Tech Park, bridging traditional knowledge with modern enterprise.
The program is guided by Bhutanese cultural and spiritual ethos, emphasizing mindfulness, harmony, and sustainability. It encourages resilience, creativity, and learning from failure, while promoting collaboration, inclusivity, integrity, and service to the nation.
Eligibility spans Bhutanese nationals aged 20–35 with at least a diploma, including students, professionals, civil servants, entrepreneurs, and civil society actors. Participants receive stipends to cover personal expenses and reinforce financial literacy, reflecting the program’s focus on responsibility and self-reliance.
By blending Bhutanese cultural values with global best practices,“Innovate for GMC” positions young participants as active co-creators of a future that balances economic progress, social responsibility, and environmental stewardship. The program encourages youth to approach innovation not just as a pursuit of technology or profit, but as a holistic process rooted in community needs, ethical decision-making,and mindful leadership.
A program mentor explained, “This initiative is not about chasing unicorns or flashy startups. It’s about developing practical, culturally grounded solutions that address real challenges faced by communities in Bhutan, while remaining adaptable and relevant in a global context.”
By connecting traditional knowledge with modern tools and methodologies—such as design thinking, systems analysis, and policy engagement—participants will learn to create solutions that are scalable, sustainable, and aligned with the values of Gross National Happiness. This approach ensures that the innovations emerging from GMC are not only technologically sound but socially responsible, reinforcing the idea that progress and mindfulness can coexist, and that the next generation of Bhutanese leaders can shape a society that thrives economically while remaining true to its cultural and spiritual roots.
Officials say the overwhelming response to the program underscores not only the enthusiasm of Bhutanese youth but also the urgent demand for sustained platforms that nurture innovation grounded in national values. With over 1,500 applicants vying for just 500 spots, the program has highlighted the latent potential of a generation eager to tackle social, environmental, and economic challenges while upholding the principles of mindfulness and cultural integrity.
The authorities note that this strong interest signals the need for future cohorts and complementary programs that continue to engage youth across Bhutan. By providing structured mentorship, access to resources, and opportunities to experiment with solutions in real-world contexts, such initiatives are expected to develop a continuous pipeline of mindful leaders. These leaders will not only drive the success of GMC but also contribute to Bhutan’s broader vision on the global stage, positioning the country as a model for values-led development, responsible innovation, and youth empowerment.
Moreover, the program aims to create a lasting ecosystem of collaboration, connecting participants with government agencies, private enterprises, civil society, and international partners. In doing so, officials hope to ensure that Bhutanese youth are equipped with the skills, networks, and experiences needed to co-create solutions that resonate locally while being scalable globally.
“With innovation anchored in mindfulness, Bhutan’s youth will not only shape GMC but also redefine the country’s place on the global stage,” said one program official.
Meanwhile, registration for the first group closed yesterday (September 19, 2025).
Tashi Namgyal from Thimphu
