Established in 2013, Khesar Gyalpo University of Medical Sciences of Bhutan stands as Bhutan’s first medical university. This institution marks a pivotal step toward self-sufficiency in healthcare. The Khesar Gyalpo University of Medical Sciences enhances the quality of Bhutanese healthcare services. It enables the nation to plan effectively for its health human resources.
Before us, Khesar Gyalpo University of Medical Sciences of Bhutan embodies a commitment to training compassionate and skilled medical professionals. Let me tell you more about this special place. In 2012, the government decided to establish a dedicated medical university. This was in addition to the Royal University of Bhutan, founded in 2003. The aim was to address the urgent need for trained medical staff. These include nurses and doctors.
Originally founded as a medical school in Thimphu, the institution was renamed in 2015. It became Khesar Gyalpo University of Medical Sciences. This renaming honored the ruling Druk Gyalpo. A Memorandum of Understanding was signed between the Ministry of Health and the University. This further strengthened the University’s programs.
Khesar Gyalpo University of Medical Sciences has two colleges. One is the Center of Excellence in Nutrition. This center was incubated with support from Bhutan’s Ministry of Health and UNICEF. The university boasts three faculties. These are the Faculty of Traditional Medicine, the Faculty of Health Sciences, and the Faculty of Postgraduate Medicine. The Faculty of Health Sciences focuses on nursing education. The Faculty of Traditional Medicine embraces Bhutan’s unique healthcare systems. The Faculty of Postgraduate Medicine awards the MD degree after four years of study.
The Khesar Gyalpo University of Medical Sciences of Bhutan actively engages in research and hosts international conferences. These events address various critical issues in healthcare. The Bhutan Health Journal is the university’s official scientific publication. It publishes biannually. It incorporates diverse fields of health sciences. These range from clinical medicine to public health.
The Khesar Gyalpo University of Medical Sciences offers a range of academic programs. These include Bachelor’s degrees in Health, Hospitality, Medicine, and Nursing. These programs share common features. Instruction is in Dzongkha. Study is full-time. Fees are approximately $2,872 per year for both domestic and international students. To apply, prospective students choose a program, complete an application form, and fulfill admission requirements.
Khesar Gyalpo University of Medical Sciences is more than just an educational institution. It’s a symbol of Bhutan’s dedication to health, education, and national well-being. As we stand here, we recognize the University’s vital role in shaping the future of healthcare. It contributes not only to Bhutan but also to the global knowledge of medicine.