Bhutan establishes monastic language institute

The Central Monastic Body has established the Monastic Institute for Language Studies in Wangdue Phodrang, Bhutan. This initiative is designed to equip monks with foreign language proficiency to facilitate international communication, translation, and the global outreach of Bhutanese Buddhist traditions.

The inaugural two-year programme currently has seven students enrolled, selected through an interview process. The curriculum focuses primarily on English and Chinese, alongside training in interpretation and communication skills. The program aims to bridge traditional religious teachings with the modern world.

The institute’s mission aligns with the vision for the Gelephu Mindfulness City, where the development of Dharma centres is expected to foster international exchanges and Buddhist learning. Students, including former administrators like Dendup Dorji, have joined the program to better contribute to the monastic body and support Bhutan’s spiritual and cultural engagement globally.