My Central Europe Adventure: From Paro to Trnava, Slovakia

 

IGI Airport Delhi

Traveling has always been a dream of mine, and thanks to the Erasmus+ Exchange Programme, I got the incredible opportunity to explore Central Europe—starting from Delhi, India, all the way to the charming city of Trnava, Slovakia. The journey was filled with excitement, challenges, and unforgettable experiences. Here’s how it all unfolded!

 

Layover nap 

Before I could even board a flight, I had to secure my Schengen Visa. The process took 8 days in Delhi, filled with nervous anticipation. Would my application be approved? Finally, the visa arrived, and I was ready to embark on my European adventure! My journey started with a flight from Delhi to Abu Dhabi, followed by a connecting flight to Vienna, Austria. The long-haul flights were tiring, but the excitement kept me going. The dream of boarding the largest commercial air plane paid off. It was a Dreamliner with 11 seats in a row. It was the UAE's national airline, Etihad Airways. 'Etihad' in Arabic means unity. 

Zayeed Int. Airport, Abu Dhabi, The UAE

Rector's team

Ice Cream: Always

Old town square

Old tower, Trnava

Nikoleta and her team 

After landing in Vienna, my next destination was Trnava, Slovakia—just 45 minutes away

Vienna International Airport, Austria

by taxi. As we drove through the scenic Austrian and Slovak countryside, I couldn’t help but admire the lush green landscapes—a stark contrast to Delhi’s bustling streets.

Discovering Trnava: Slovakia’s Hidden Gem

Trnava, often called "Little Rome" for its many churches, is a picturesque city with a rich history. Here’s what made my stay special: Walking through Trnava’s Old Town felt like stepping into a fairy tale. The St. John the Baptist Cathedral, Town Tower, and cobblestone streets exuded an old-world charm I had only seen in movies.

Nikoleta & her team

The Erasmus+ program wasn’t just about travel—it was about learning, networking, and cultural exchange. Thanks to Nikoleta, my new found friend, who is the International Relations Director for the University of Ss. Cyril and Methodius in Trnava, Slovakia.  I met the Rector, Vice Rector and other professors and even picked up a few Slovak phrases ("Ahoj!" for hello, "Ďakujem!" for thank you).

Cheaper than bottled water 

Slovaks are incredibly warm and welcoming. I window-shopped many dishes dishes but fell in love with Kofola (a local soda). Our (there were 2 senior professors with me) causal snack was mostly ice cream followed by daily dose of beers. Here’s the catch, beers are cheaper than bottled water. Haha…no wonder our bellies eked-out an inch. 

From the chaotic streets of Delhi to the serene beauty of Trnava, this journey was nothing short of magical. I returned with memories, friendships, and a newfound love for Central Europe.

Education: Again?

The recent news on bringing the Cambridge thing to Bhutan and our country’s quest to revamp its education system and align it with world standards is a commendable goal, however I see some unique challenges and as a former educationist, following are my personal opinions that may or may not be considered and readers’ discretion is advised;

Geographic and Infrastructural Barriers

Many schools are in isolated, hard-to-reach areas, making it difficult to ensure uniform access to quality education. Schools, especially in rural areas, lack proper classrooms, electricity, internet, and digital learning tools.

Shortage of Qualified Teachers

Attracting and retaining well-trained teachers, especially in rural areas, is difficult due to limited incentives and professional development opportunities. We also have shortage in specialized fields, which may not be sustainable in the long-term.

Balancing Tradition and Modernization

Integrating global education standards while maintaining Bhutan’s unique cultural identity is a delicate balance. While English is the medium of instruction, many students in rural schools struggle with it, affecting learning outcomes.

Limited Resources & Funding

As a small economy, we struggle to allocate sufficient funds for education reforms, teacher training, and technology upgrades. Many educational initiatives rely on international aid, which may not always align with Bhutan’s long-term needs.

Access to Technology & Digital Divide

Picture: BES 

Many rural schools lack reliable internet, hindering e-learning and access to global educational resources. Not all students have access to computers or tablets, making digital education inequitable.

 Curriculum Relevance & Skill Gaps

The current system must prepare students for modern job markets, entrepreneurship, or STEM fields. Even educated youth face job shortages, indicating a mismatch between education and labor market needs.

Socio-economic Disparities

Students in cities (like Thimphu) have better facilities than those in villages, leading to unequal opportunities. While Bhutan has made progress, some girls and children with disabilities still face barriers to education.

Brain Drain & Retention of Talent

Many educated Bhutanese seek opportunities abroad, leading to a loss of skilled professionals who could contribute to national development.

Policy Implementation & Bureaucracy

While Bhutan has progressive policies, its implementation at the grassroots level remains a challenge.

Despite these challenges, we can leverage our strengths—such as strong community values, and a commitment to GNH—to reform education. My frail brain could come up with some strategies but aren't limited to;

•  Public-Private Partnerships for infrastructure and tech development.
•  Teacher Training & Incentives to improve quality.
•  Blended Learning Models to bridge the digital divide.
•  Vocational & STEM Education to align with job market needs.
•  Localized Curriculum to balance global standards with Bhutanese traditions.

 Kadrinchey la...

 

 

Needrup Zangpo's Drukpa Kunley: Sacred tales of a mad monk...Some Reflections!

 

On a chilly day at Sherubtse College, on an official chore, I get a messenger text, “Can you please share your number?” “Las, 77……….” and quick came the reply, “Thanks! Want to invite you for my book launch on Friday if you are in Thimphu.” “Thanks la, but I am travelling to the eastern colleges and I won’t be able to make it.”

That was my journalist friend, Needrup Zangpo inviting me for the launch of his book Drukpa Kunley: sacred tales of a mad monk. Well then I missed the launch and weeks later, I texted, “Kuzuzangpo, where can I buy your book?” That’s how I grabbed a signed copy Needrup’s book, but of course I mBob-ed the price.

Drukpa Kunley: Sacred Tales of a Mad Monk" by Needrup Zangpo offers an intriguing glimpse into the life and teachings of one of Bhutan's most venerated figures, Drukpa Kunley, also known as the "Divine Madman." This book presents a collection of short stories that capture the essence of Drukpa Kunley's unconventional approach to spirituality and his unique way of challenging societal norms.

Zangpo's storytelling is vibrant and engaging, bringing to life the colorful tapestry of Bhutanese folklore and Buddhist teachings. The tales often blend humor, wisdom, and scandal, reflecting Drukpa Kunley’s playful nature and his ability to convey profound truths through seemingly irreverent actions. Readers will find themselves both entertained and enlightened as they navigate through anecdotes that highlight themes of love, compassion, and the path to enlightenment.

The illustrations (Chhimi R Namgyel) that accompany the text serve to enhance the storytelling experience, providing visual context to the narratives and enriching the reader's understanding of Bhutanese culture and spiritual practices.

"Drukpa Kunley: Sacred Tales of a Mad Monk" is a delightful read for those interested in Buddhist philosophy, cultural history, or simply compelling storytelling. It challenges readers to appreciate the depth of meaning in seemingly chaotic lives and encourages a more profound exploration of what it means to be truly free in one's spiritual journey.

This book hasn’t come to the book stores or maybe it has by the time you read this, not sure but if you would like to lick some mad stories from this book, I can lend with a condition that it is returned.

Happy reading if you already have one…and thanks for dropping by. 

The Art of Inspiring and Guiding Others

Leadership is more than just a position or title; it’s an art, a science, and a way of being that inspires and guides others toward a common goal. Great leaders are not born; they are made through experience, learning, and dedication.

Great leaders are excellent communicators who listen as much as they speak. They understand the importance of being transparent and open with their team, fostering a culture of trust and collaboration. Alongside communication, empathy is crucial. Leaders who empathize with their team members build strong relationships and create a supportive environment where everyone feels valued and understood.

Leaders are often faced with difficult decisions. The ability to make informed, timely decisions is a hallmark of strong leadership. However, it's not just about making decisions; it's also about taking responsibility for them. Great leaders are accountable for their actions and the outcomes, whether positive or negative. They learn from their mistakes and encourage their team to do the same.

In today’s rapidly changing world, adaptability is an essential trait for leaders. They must be flexible and open to new ideas and approaches. Great leaders embrace change and encourage innovation within their team. They understand that staying stagnant is not an option and that growth comes from continuous learning and improvement.

One of the most powerful ways a leader can inspire their team is by leading by example. Demonstrating integrity, commitment, and passion in their work sets a standard for others to follow. When leaders show that they are willing to work hard and uphold the values they promote, they earn the respect and loyalty of their team.

Pic: RUB's FB page

Leadership is a multifaceted concept that involves vision, decision-making, adaptability, leading by example, and developing others. It requires a balance of various skills and qualities, but most importantly, it is about inspiring and guiding others to achieve common goals. Great leaders leave a lasting impact, not only through their achievements but through the people they inspire along the way.

One such personality that I have known of is our very own Dasho Chewang Rinzin, an engineer, Dy. Chamberlian to the Druk Gyalpo, the then Director of RIGSS-Royal Institute of Governance and Strategic Studies, and now the Vice Chancellor of the Royal University of Bhutan.

 

 

 

Bhutan’s AI Ambassador : Sonam Pelden

Evan Spiegel

Evan Spiegel, the founder of Snap Inc. was one of the speakers at the Bhutan Innovation Forum 2024 at Paro, Pangbisa, Dungkar Dzong. His session delved into how Snap Inc. came to be and during his information sharing, he mentioned, which caught all my senses is, “We have two ears and a mouth, use it in proportion.” And of course he mentioned about this in context of tech entrepreneurship.

Using the two ears and a mouth in proportion is nothing new in the Bhutanese context. I particularly have heard this from parents and every other human being that I know are senior to me have uttered to me this very maxim like advise given the human characteristics that I possess. (Very true with the people who have come to know me recently and those who know me personally). Not exactly in a way Evan put it but with the same essence and the idea.

Ok, putting the ears and the mouth thing into perspective (a personalized one, of course) I then attended the second session for the day, The World of AI and Augmented Reality: Can Bhutan Benefit?

The panelists for the session

This session had famous personalities namely Richard Rothenberg, CEO of Global AI. Nesma Bensalem, Founder and CEO of WeCare Impact, Audrey Low, President of GGIT and our very own Sonam Pelden, Co-Founder and Chief Product Officer at Curioser AI. I am super-proud we have such a woman who is native to Bhutan.

This was the session I really, really put my two ears use. In fact, it was the ears which I really put into use. Perhaps, there is so much that our youngsters and adult alike can learn from this young lady, and no wonder the Bhutan Innovation Forum 2024 has her invited. I was astonished the way she answered the question, let me rephrase it, “What is your perspective on AI with Buddhist values?” Given her intelligence, “the data we feed into, if we do it with Buddhist values in mind, I definitely see a future there.”

With the genius herself 

I told one of my mentors sitting beside me, I am super proud that Sonam Pelden is from Bhutan. Just the thought of a young Bhutanese lady speaking on AI to a large room full of international and national participants is a moment of pride for all of us. I am sure others like me felt the same. I remember two different audience claps in unison for her replies and the ideas she shared. No wonder GMC needs people like her and Mr. Rothenberg reinstated Sonam to be the epitome of AI in Bhutan. My humble opinion about Sonam is, she is our ambassador to AI…Not bad for a country like ours where getting approvals eats up a lot of our time.

More on the Bhutan Innovation Forum 2024 interesting topics next time and for now, I read this on Facebook on my way to the BIF 2024 this morning, the person who wrote this is sometimes funny with his updates and this time he wrote, “Dear travel agents, please dress our Chillips with some decent clothes and not with some shiny ghos and kiras  who look like PP children readying for the school cultural show.”

More next time and thank you for dropping by….Kadrinchey la.

 

 

 

 

 

"Moments, Milestones, and Memories" SOME REFLECTIONS...

"Moments, Milestones, and Memories" by Lyonpo Thakur S. Powdyel is a poignant journey through the life experiences and reflections of the author. Lyonpo Powdyel, known for his insightful writing and deep understanding of human emotions, crafts a collection that resonates with readers on various levels.

The book is divided into sections, each exploring different facets of life, from love and loss to triumph and tribulation. Lyonpo’s prose is lyrical, evoking powerful imagery and emotions that tug at the heartstrings.

Through his words, readers are transported to moments of joy, sorrow, and everything in between.

One of the most compelling aspects of "Moments, Milestones, and Memories" is Lyonpo’s ability to capture the universal human experience. Regardless of background or circumstance, readers will find themselves nodding in recognition at the shared emotions and struggles depicted in the book.

Moreover, Lyonpo infuses his writing with wisdom and introspection, offering readers not only a glimpse into his own life but also valuable lessons and insights to apply to their own. Whether contemplating the nature of happiness or the importance of resilience, his words carry a profound weight that lingers long after the book is closed. From among the many sections, a reality called miracle remains my favourite.

Overall, "Moments, Milestones, and Memories" is a beautiful ode to life itself. Through its pages, Lyonpo reminds us of the significance of each moment, milestone, and memory, urging readers to cherish the journey and embrace all that it entails. It's a book that speaks to the soul, offering solace, inspiration, and a renewed appreciation for the beauty of being alive.

I couldn’t find other words and expression to describe and review this book but nevertheless I am quoting Lyonpo himself, “Moments, Milestones and Memories is a testament to gratitude, faith and fulfillment. I submit it to you such as it is, such as it might have been, with prayers, forever.”

Kadrinchey la and happy reading everyone!

Thank you Lyonpo for your guidance and wisdom that have shaped me into the amateur writer I am today. (I consider myself an amateur). Your godlike mastery of words has been a beacon of inspiration, illuminating the path for me to follow. I am forever grateful for your mentorship and the invaluable lessons you have imparted to me.

The soul of modernity in-rhythm to capitalism

Armed with a curious spirit, I set out to delve into the soul of this enchanting destination, ready to embrace the unknown. (Not so unknown though, I underwent my studies here). Every corner revealed a new facet of the city's rich tapestry, from the vibrant marketplaces bursting with colors and aromas to the serene sanctuaries tucked away in quiet courtyards.

Wandering through the bustling streets, I found myself drawn to the rhythm of daily life, where locals and visitors mingled effortlessly, exchanging smiles and stories in a universal language of humanity. In the warmth of a bustling café, I savored the flavors of traditional cuisine, each dish a celebration of culinary heritage passed down through generations.

Venturing into the bustle of the world famous Walking Street, I was greeted by old farangs (Thai for foreigners) holding hands of girls half their age, their verdant beauty a testament to the symbiotic relationship between the farang and their partners.

For in the heart of Bangkok, I found a piece of myself, forever woven into the fabric of its timeless tapestry.  From the jovial papaya salad (Som Tam) to the solemn rituals of foot massage, the good one of course, each ceremony offered a glimpse into the soul of modern lifestyle shaped by the rhythms of capitalism.

In its no so winding streets and the people filled Soi's (Thai for side streets)  I discovered the true meaning of connection – not just to a destination, but to the people who call it home and the stories that bind us all together. Nothing has changed in the familiar streets, smell of the street foods since I last visited 3 years ago. It was more than just a place on a map; it was a living, breathing entity with a story to tell and lessons to impart. 

And so, as I bid farewell I carried with me not only memories of a remarkable journey but also a newfound appreciation for the beauty of modernity and the power of human connection.  For in the heart of Bangkok, I found a piece of myself, forever woven into the fabric of its timeless tapestry. I felt I knew this place.

Khab Koon Khrub (Thank You) Bangkok, until next time! Leaw phob kein mei....(See you soon in Thai)

 

 

The World in 2050: How to Think About the Future…some reflections!

 

A bold and vital vision of our planet, The World in 2050 is an essential guide for anyone worried about what the future holds. For if we understand how our world is changing, we will be in a better position to secure our future in the decades to come.

Hamish McRae, the author of this book, has built and maintained an estimably high reputation n as an economic and financial commentator over an impressively lengthy period of time. His regular journalism is unfailingly insightful and, therefore, always well worth reading. McRae does, moreover, have past form as a purveyor of longer-term “futurological” thinking insofar as almost thirty years ago he published the ground-breaking “The World in 2020”. This I recall as proving enormously useful in enhancing my thinking about how the global economy and financial system might evolve over the turn of the century and beyond.  Importantly, I feel exactly the same way about McRae’s new magnum opus.

Importantly, this is a book which – like its predecessor – is wholly global in its scope. Far from being focused exclusively upon the outlook for the US or Europe, for instance, it covers each and every region that comprises the jigsaw which collectively comprises the global economy.

McRae’s discussion of these multiple “forces for change” is wide-ranging and fascinating. He then moves on to a wide-ranging deliberation about “how the world will look in 2050”. Throughout, however, he emphasises the critical role of choice. Everything could go well, thereby vindicating faith in sustained human progress. Conversely, much could go wrong, with the world failing to fulfil its potential and dashing the future prospects of so many of the world’s expanding population (the United Nations’ World Population Prospects, which McRae employs, envisages our total population rising from just over 8 billion at present to 10 billion in thirty years’ time). McRae’s concluding chapter – The Big Themes That Will Shape the World Ahead” – focuses constructively upon what might go wrong (ten key issues) and, subsequently, what is likely to go right.

Many of McRae’s conclusions may seem provocative. He is sanguine, for instance, that the US will eventually successfully weather its current political and social discontent. He’s also notably upbeat about the prospects for the UK and Ireland. He’s optimistic that globalisation has yet reached the end of the road, while sceptical that we can avoid another financial crisis (Charles Kindleberger’s “hardy perennial”) and unpersuaded the Euro will survive. Furthermore, he’s strikingly upbeat about the future growth potential of India and Africa.

 

Chogyam Trungpa Rimpoche's Crazy Wisdom: Some Reflections...

Chögyam Trungpa Rimpoche (1939-1987) was a Tibetan Buddhist meditation master, scholar, and founder of the Shambhala tradition in the West. He was known for his unconventional and provocative teaching style, which included the notion of "crazy wisdom." 

https://www.elephantjournal.com/

"Crazy Wisdom" refers to a teaching approach that challenges conventional wisdom and societal norms. Trungpa believed that enlightenment could not be attained through traditional, predictable, and comfortable means but rather through direct, unfiltered experience and a willingness to step beyond one's comfort zone. He encouraged his students to embrace the full spectrum of human experience, including the messy and chaotic aspects of life.

Trungpa's teachings emphasize the importance of embracing the entirety of our human experience, both the light and the dark, in our journey towards enlightenment. He believes that true wisdom often emerges from the chaos and unpredictability of life, rather than from following a predetermined path. This perspective can be both liberating and unsettling, as it requires us to confront our own limitations and fears.

"Crazy Wisdom" is the idea that we should not shy away from discomfort or the unknown. Trungpa's teachings encourage us to engage with life fully, without clinging to rigid ideologies or seeking refuge in familiar routines. This approach challenges us to step outside our comfort zones, confront our own prejudices, and embrace the world with a sense of wonder and curiosity. It's essential to note that Chögyam Trungpa's teachings are not without controversy.

Lastly, not the least by any means, "Crazy Wisdom" is a thought-provoking concept associated with Chögyam Trungpa that challenges us to re-evaluate our understanding of spirituality and personal growth. The idea of "Crazy Wisdom" continues to inspire individuals to approach life with openness, authenticity, and a willingness to embrace the unconventional aspects of human existence. 

Readers interested in exploring this concept further can delve into Chögyam Trungpa's works and the writings of those who have been influenced by his teachings.

 

The Quintessential Samtse

Have you ever felt the irresistible pull of wanderlust, that undeniable urge to explore the uncharted territories? I certainly have, and recently, I had the privilege of setting foot in a place I had never been before – Samtse. Upon the kind invitation of the President of Samtse College, I had the opportunity to visit Samtse. 

Stepping off the car onto unfamiliar soil was an exhilarating moment. The air carried a      different scent, and the sights and sounds were entirely foreign to me. As I navigated my way through the winding roads towards Samtse, a sense of excitement mingled with curiosity and a dash of apprehension. What would this new place have in store for me?

The first few hours in Samtse were a whirlwind of sensory overload. The southern architecture was a fascinating blend of old and new buildings, creating a unique skyline that beckoned me to explore. The not so bustling streets, awash with a kaleidoscope of colors and noises is the usual way greeting northerners like me.

As I entered the college gate, I took a picture and made a story update. This was seen by my childhood friend Selden and my college mate Pem Deki. This was how a dinner with these beautiful ladies ensued.

I have a friend named Purna, now undergoing his Masters studies in Samtse, let me borrow his bran new slippers for four days as I had forgotten to pack mine due to the wanderlust excitement.

My stay in the college took me back to my university after seeing the speck and immaculate Library of Samtse College. How I wished to do some research using the actual crackle of the pages in the library instead of the internet and how I wished to reflect and soul-search in the meditation room.

The laughter with new friends, the unexpected adventures, learning on Aussie[i] cultures– these are the moments that stay etched in my heart. Travel memories have a unique power; they have the ability to transport you back in time and evoke emotions like no other.

Each new place you visit adds a layer to your identity, making you more open-minded, adaptable, and empathetic. This is what I have learned from this trip to Samtse.

Thank you, Dr. Rinchen, Dr. Sonam, Professor Vicky, Sangay, Pema and finally Acho Zangla for being with me in my short but fulfilling tryst with Samtse. 

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[i] There were 10 Aussies on student exchange programme