Join the RTC summer programme and redefine development and well-being for a better tomorrow!
Title of the Award: Gross National Happiness Summer Programme
Award Granting Body: Royal Thimphu College
The Gross National Happiness (GNH) Summer Programme offers an immersive, interdisciplinary education exploring Bhutan's unique development philosophy of Gross National Happiness (GNH). Participants will explore the practical application of the Buddhist principles and GNH values in shaping policy, business practices, and societal well-being.
The three-week programme includes five modules: two core modules and three electives, all interconnected by a common foundation in Buddhist philosophy and the central theme of GNH, creating a cohesive and enriching learning experience. Participants are expected to devote 40 notional hours to each module.
- GDP and its Alternatives: De-Growth, Well-Being, and Sustainability
- Concept, Measurement, and Praxis of GNH in Bhutan
- Operationalising GNH: Policy and Practice
- Gross National Happiness of Business
- Buddhism, Bhutanese Heritage, and Gross National Happiness
Who is it for?
It is intended for international/regional/national participants who want to learn or deepen their understanding and experience of GNH and sustainable development.
How long is it?
- Programme Start Date: TBC
- Programme End Date: TBC
Teaching-Learning Approaches?
The programme offers a mix of interactive lectures, case studies, group works and field excursions.
The modules will be taught by practitioners, industry experts, and senior faculty members with vast experience in the respective disciplines.
What is the Fee?
USD 2300/- (inclusive of tuition, on-campus accommodation, meals and organised excursions. The fee does not include your personal expenses)
Nu.1,01200/- (inclusive of tuition, meals, and excursions) for Bhutanese students.
Daily SDF waiver will be facilitated by RTC!
Early Bird Registration: 10% discount on registrations and payment completed by March 15th, 2026.
Deadline for registration: 28th May, 2026
Partner Institution Scholarship: 15% of the program fee for each student. (Partner institutes are not eligible for early bird registration concession)
Cancellation and Refund Policy
a. Cancellation by RTC:
If RTC must cancel the entire programme for any reason (e.g., insufficient enrollment, public health concerns etc.), participants will receive a full refund of the tuition fee paid, less any non-recoverable costs already incurred by RTC at the time of cancellation. Participants will be notified of the cancellation at least two weeks prior to the start date.
b. Cancellation by Participant:
If a participant cancels enrollment after payment: Only 75% of the fee will be refunded for cancellations notified before 30th May. No refunds will be entertained for cancellations after 31st May.
c. Administrative and Protection Plan:
Requests for refunds or cancellations must be made in writing and submitted via the designated RTC email (This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.) or platform.
Contact Information
For questions and further information, please contact: