The very first batch of Quest University students along with a fresh batch of Wheaton students joined Royal Thimphu College for the spring semester. The group this year totals 14 students, 2 from Quest University, Canada & 12 from Wheaton College in Norton, Massachusetts accompanied by Wheaton’s Program Director.

The international students will experience living and studying at Royal Thimphu College until the end of the semester. They live in the residence halls with regular students and are actively involved in activities at RTC.

During their 4 months stay, the international students take a course on “Contemporary Bhutanese Society” where they attend talks and get to interact with various leaders from all walks of life in Bhutan. They also take an introductory Dzongkha course along with a regular course offered by the college. In addition, they also get the opportunity to intern at various Civil Society Organizations (CSO), NGOs & private institutions. To enhance their knowledge of Bhutanese culture and society, the students also take weekend trips in Thimphu and other Dzongkhags. 

This cultural exchange program is a part of RTC’s academic partnership with Wheaton College and Quest University. RTC has been receiving students from Wheaton every semester since 2010 but is receiving the very first batch of students from Quest this year.