Do Your Bit

    

Do Your Bit

I have always wanted to attend one of the training programs provided by the Royal Institute for Governance and Strategic Studies (RIGSS). Friends who have participated often describe it as a life-changing and inspiring experience. More than anything, I wanted the opportunity to meet Director Chewang Rinzin, now the Vice Chancellor of the Royal University of Bhutan. Everyone speaks highly of Dasho VC's dynamism, vibrancy, and inspiring leadership. However, I never had the chance, until today. Ever since the announcement of Dasho’s visit, I had been eagerly looking forward to it. 

And the experience was everything I had imagined and more, thought-provoking, inspiring, and aspirational.

 

Congratulations on your appointment as Vice Chancellor la

    As Bhutan is undergoing an unprecedented transformation, we find ourselves at a crossroads. While the country faces an exodus of talented and educated individuals, it also needs a strong workforce to drive this transformation forward. In this context, Dasho VC’s visit and his interaction with the staff was timely. His talk served as a reminder of what it means to be a loyal and dedicated civil servant. More importantly, it reinforced the need for all of us to be part of the solution rather than the problem. 

     Dasho's discussion on branding and the four foundational attributes of the Royal University of Bhutan including professionalism, service-oriented, entrepreneurial mindset, and excellence resonated strongly with us. However, my key takeaway from today’s session was his Eight Points of Reflection: 

  

  1. The Dash and the Rear-View Mirror

    To transition from a globally recognized university to a truly global one, we must look ahead rather than dwell on the past. The past serves as a reference and a source of learning, much like a rear-view mirror in a car. While it is essential to glance back for guidance, our primary focus must always be on moving forward. 

 2. The TEAM is Everything

 "The whole is greater than the sum of its parts." 

Dasho shared a compelling example of a football team in Paro Dzongkhag. Initially the best team in the region, they lost a game due to a lack of strategy. Their principal had promised a watch to the player who scored the most goals. Consequently, individual players prioritized personal achievement over teamwork, ultimately leading to their defeat. While the principal’s intention was good, the strategy backfired. As a team, we must work toward a common vision. Individually, we can achieve much, but collectively, we can accomplish wonders. 

3. Worship Your Work 

"No good work is ever insignificant." 

This point resonated deeply with me. I often question the impact of my contributions, wondering if they truly make a difference. However, Dasho’s words reaffirmed that every role, no matter how small, holds significance. He shared the inspiring story of a janitor at NASA who, when asked by President John F. Kennedy what his job was, replied, 

"I’m helping put a man on the moon." 

    This emphasizes the importance of recognizing our individual efforts and contributions. Everything we do has a connection to the larger vision. You need to think your work is important and it should be respected. 

 4. Office is a Sacred Place 

Stay away from daily office politics.

    Dasho emphasized that gossip deteriorates an institution’s prestige. As educated individuals, we should rise above such behavior. Instead, we should celebrate our colleagues’ achievements publicly and address internal conflicts through proper discussions. Internal coherence and mutual respect will foster a more productive and harmonious work environment. 

5. Charity Begins at Home 

"We must put our house in order before advertising it to the world." 

For instance, colleges must improve hostel facilities for Bhutanese students before promoting themselves internationally. A strong foundation at home is essential for meaningful external growth. 

 6. Reciprocate Trust 

Trust must be built and nurtured. A lack of trust often leads to regulation over deregulation and centralization over decentralization. Dasho highlighted that favoritism and nepotism in job opportunities diminish trust, whereas a meritocracy strengthens it. To build trust we need to reciprocate trust. 

 7. Communicate Effectively

 The biggest challenge today is communication. 

    Dasho pointed out that people often ignore messages for days, causing unnecessary confusion. A simple, timely response can prevent logistical challenges, whether related to event planning or workplace coordination. In an era of instant connectivity, communication should be swift and efficient. Everything moves fast with Fast communication. 

8. Keep Your Surroundings Clean and Beautiful

 Beautify your campus and keep your surroundings clean. 

Dasho reminded us of His Majesty’s words: 

“Where we live must be clean, safe, organized, and beautiful, for national integrity, national pride, and for our bright future – this too is nation building”. 

    Inspired by initiatives like the annual flower exhibitions, we should come up with new initiatives, and keep our surroundings clean and beautiful. 

 The Hummingbird Story: Do Your Bit 

    Dasho concluded with the story of the hummingbird during a raging forest fire. While other animals stood by in despair, the tiny hummingbird repeatedly carried water in its beak, attempting to extinguish the flames. When mocked by the larger animals for its seemingly insignificant efforts, the hummingbird simply replied, 

"I am doing my bit." 

    This story is a powerful reminder that no contribution is too small. Each of us has a role to play in realizing the vision of our college, and in doing so, we contribute to His Majesty’s larger vision for the nation. 

    Today’s session left me feeling inspired and motivated to be a better educator, team player, and contributor to the greater good. And most importantly, it reminded me that no effort is ever too small when working toward a collective vision. 

And whenever you feel tired, just look at this photo

🙏🙏🙏

 So, let’s all do our bit.