30/05/2026
๐๐ก๐๐ฉ๐ข๐ง๐ ๐๐๐ง๐๐ซ๐๐ญ๐ข๐จ๐ง๐ฌ ๐๐ก๐ซ๐จ๐ฎ๐ ๐ก ๐๐๐จ๐ฎ๐ญ๐ข๐ง๐ ๐๐จ๐ฎ๐ซ๐ง๐๐ฒ ๐จ๐ ๐๐ซ. ๐๐๐ฐ๐๐ง๐ ๐๐ฒ๐๐ฅ๐ญ๐ฌ๐ก๐๐ง
When people speak of Scouting in Bhutan, one name that resonates with respect and admiration is Mr. Nawang Gyaltshen. Known affectionately as Apa or Apala by his Scout students, he is more than a coordinator; he is a mentor, a father figure, and a guiding light for thousands of young people across the country.
His journey began in 1999 at Yangchenphug Higher Secondary School, where he taught for eight years while serving as a Rovers Scout. Even then, his passion for nurturing youth was evident. After a stint at the AntiโCorruption Commission, he returned to his true calling in 2014, joining the Ministryโs Department of Youth and Coordination Division as a Programme Officer for Scouts.
Over the years, his influence has touched countless lives. Jigme Yeazor Tenzin, a Class XI student from YHSS, recalls: โI have known Sir Ngawang from the 20th batch of Scouts Leadership Training. I have got all happy memories with him; he is like a guardian to me. He has helped me explore various opportunities to enhance my skills.โ
Similarly, Tshering Nidup Dorji, now a firstโyear student at RTC, shares: โI met Sir Nawang during the 16th batch of Scout Leadership Training and since then I have been volunteering under his guidance in various Scout programmes. He is very caring and encourages us to be resilient as part of our holistic development.โ
And Thinley Zangmo, currently studying at Rajamangala University of Technology in Bangkok and volunteering at the National Scout Jamboree, beautifully sums it up: โHe is a father figure to all the Scouts. Though tough and disciplined, he was loved by all and respected as the father of every Scout.โ
Since then, Mr. Nawang has become the face of leadership training in Bhutan, proudly coordinating the programme from its second batch to the recently completed 22nd. For him, Scouting is not just about activities it is about creativity, innovation, and thinking beyond the ordinary. The 21โday leadership training he leads is transformative, instilling unity, brotherhood, moral values, and volunteerism. Students emerge more grounded, compassionate, and ready to lead.
What sets him apart is his heart. He celebrates birthdays, arranges farewells, and helps students secure admissions and sponsorships for higher studies even for those who struggle academically. His friendly nature and deep understanding of young minds make him approachable, and his continued contact with past trainees shows the lasting bonds he builds.
As the Camp Chief for the National Scout Jamboree 2026, Mr. Nawang brings unmatched experience and calm assurance. For him, the Jamboree is not a challenge but a continuation of his lifelong mission to empower youth. Originally from Ramjar in Trashiyangtse and a proud father of four, he balances family life with his devotion to Scouting, embodying service, leadership, and compassion in every role he plays.
Today, he is recognised as one of the great personnel of the Bhutan Scouts Association, a man whose legacy will continue to inspire generations of Scouts and leaders, shaping Bhutanโs future with kindness, vision, and unwavering dedication.
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