Monastic education is the oldest form of formal learning in Bhutan, predating modern schools by centuries. Thousands of young monks study Buddhist philosophy, ritual, language, and arts in monasteries across the country under the Central Monastic Body.
Overview
Monastic education has been the foundation of formal learning in Bhutan for centuries, long before the introduction of modern secular schools in the 1960s. Today, the Central Monastic Body (Dratshang Lhentshog), headed by the Je Khenpo, oversees the education of thousands of monks and nuns in monasteries across the country.
Curriculum
Monastic students study:
- Buddhist philosophy — sutras, commentaries, and debate
- Ritual practice — cham dances, chanting, and ceremonial procedures
- Language — classical Tibetan (Choekey), Dzongkha
- Traditional arts — thangka painting, sculpture, calligraphy
Modern Reforms
In recent decades, the monastic education system has incorporated basic modern subjects including English, mathematics, and science, recognizing that monks need some secular knowledge to function in modern Bhutanese society.[1] However, Buddhist studies remain the core focus.
Scale
The monastic system educates thousands of young Bhutanese, with major monastic institutions at Tango, Cheri, Tashichho Dzong, and district dzongs across the country.
References
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