Reading Retreat is a non-profitable project founded by Mr. Sonam Norbu, teacher of Lobesa LSS and team. It is a program that is born from the heart of teachers- a platform laid for our children to get together to build a good lifelong habit- Reading, and also to meaningfully engage themselves during the long break. It is to understand and realize the core dream and noble vision of His Majesty to inculcate reading habit among Bhutan’s young minds, and to encourage children to develop inner software to produce best version of themselves. It also emphasizes in using reading skills to improve listening, speaking and writing skills through ICT and other mediums to enhance reading skills. It enriches their language and vocabulary, and eventaully gains confidence and build self esteem.

I will always support teachers throughout my reign. I will give you more importance and more recognition than any other sector, because you are going to make the greatest difference to future of our country. (His Majesty the King to trainee teachers at Samtse College of Education, 2012)

This national program was initially launched during the 2016 summer vacation as a school based program with 105 students of Lobesa and 15 volunteer teachers. It consistently continued annually with great achievements and intense supports and interest from parents and students till now.  The retreat flows under the theme- Reading is Fun and it aims at making reading as an enjoyable endeavor for our young students. During this programme, students from lower secondary schools (ranging between class 4 and class 8) across the country participate for a week long activities and sessions on various topics.

The retreat also believes that children will learn to be more independent as they will be spending the whole week on their own, taking care of their things and themselves too. For some the retreat will be their first time sleeping in a camp, away from home. So it is also an opportunity for adventure. I enjoyed a lots by children's fascination and optimistic nature mixed with sense of humours too.

The programme strives towards building a well-read Bhutanese society. The weeklong programme is designed to engage students in reading-related and other useful activities. The activities will begin with a bedtime reading, four sessions during the day and story time before bed.

Alongside the reading activities, the retreat also provides them with the values of Tha Damtshi (Loyalty) and Lay Judrey (Karma/Cause and Effect). It will also instil in them a sense of pride and Bhutanese etiquettes (Driglam Namzha and Zacha Dro Sum). Participants and Volunteers made field visit to Wangdue Phodrang Dzong Reconstruction Project to render service and helped the labours with refreshment who were serving genuinely under scorching sunny day.

In addition, the children can also take part in physical education (morning 06:00 am) and recreational activities (energizing and fun activities between sessions and entertainmnet session after dinner). This year, the weeklong national program ended with contentment and commitments from everyone, blessed with prestigious recognition and appreciation of Leaders beside one new beautiful achievement.

"All individuals involved are volunteers who came forward and are wholeheartedly working for the love of Reading and for our future citizens. The only incentive the volunteers receive is the countless smiles on the faces of the students and parents too." Sonam Norbu, Camp Cordinator and Founder

The Reading Retreat Journey 4 saw 233 participants from 34 schools of 12 Dzongkhags, 49 volunteers consisting of social workers, teachers, college students and students, and 17 team members.

I volunteered as a Volunteer to facilitate the program along with other nine active scouts from own college before new academic year.  My team owe profound gratitude to Reading Retreat Team for the wonderful opportunity. And we will be continuing our dedications and services to program henceforth too.

Thank You