Copyright businessbhutan
The country is taking a significant leap forward in medical education and training through Druk Sokchop—meaning “Bhutan Life Savers”—a program designed to equip healthcare providers, teachers, child educators, and office staff with skills ranging from basic first aid to advanced medical procedures. The initiative, supported by the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), marks a shift from reliance on overseas training to a self-sustained system of high-quality, locally tailored medical education. “Previously, we depended on foreign countries for even basic training, but now we have our own courses. We have already trained over 1,000 people and 500 instructors nationwide,” said Tshewang Rinzin, a lecturer at the Khesar Gyalpo University of Medical Sciences of Bhutan (KGUMSB). “Our courses are comparable to those in countries like Singapore, the USA, and Japan, but they are customized for Bhutan’s needs and culture.” One of the most notable achievements of Druk Sokchop is the establishment of three advanced simulation centers in Thimphu, Gelephu, and Monggar for hands-on training. Equipped with high-fidelity mannequins and medical simulators, the centers allow students and healthcare providers to practice in realistic, risk-free environments before entering hospitals. “These centers prepare students for real-life situations. The simulators can cry, breathe, and mimic distress, enabling trainees to practice CPR, intubation, and emergency care,” Tshewang Rinzin explained. Beyond simulators, JICA has also supported the provision of essential medical equipment, laboratory tools, and infrastructure upgrades. Regional centers now benefit from improved IT systems, WiFi connectivity, smart water dispensers, and strategically installed power outlets to support high-tech training devices. UNICEF has further contributed about 5% of the costs for these infrastructure improvements. Classrooms and labs have also been furnished with necessary furniture, heating systems, and other utilities, creating a conducive environment for effective learning. Before Druk Sokchop, Bhutanese professionals were often sent abroad for training in skills that could have been developed locally. With this program, Bhutan now offers 12 structured courses designed within its cultural context, ensuring both quality and relevance. The partnership with JICA has not only brought in world-class training tools but has also strengthened Bhutan’s capacity to produce confident, skilled healthcare professionals. “By enabling hands-on learning in Bhutan, Druk Sokchop has transformed medical education. It ensures our health workers are better prepared, our training more sustainable, and our system more resilient,” an official from the Ministry of Health (MoH) said. Sherab Dorji From Thimphu
