Druk Asia and Inspire Citizens Partner to Redefine Global Learning Through Bhutan’s Living Heritage

Druk Asia partners with Inspire Citizens and the Museums of Bhutan to launch transformative experiential learning journeys in Bhutan, blending culture, sustainability, and education to nurture a new generation of compassionate global citizens and Guardians of Culture.

Druk Asia has announced a landmark partnership with Inspire Citizens (IC), a global leader in service and sustainability education, to curate experiential learning journeys for students and educators. Developed in close collaboration with the Museums of Bhutan, these programmes will offer an immersive educational experience rooted in Bhutan’s timeless philosophy of balance between people, culture, and nature.

Empathy to Impact: Learning Beyond the Classroom

Anchored in IC’s innovative Empathy to Impact Framework, the journeys aim to help participants explore the interconnectedness of culture, economy, and ecology. Through deep community engagement and reciprocal learning with local communities, educators and students will gain firsthand insight into how Bhutan designs policies for collective well-being.

These experiences focus on intercultural connection, ecological stewardship, and meaningful service, nurturing youth as empathetic global citizens ready to shape a regenerative future.

“Bhutan’s philosophy of Gross National Happiness demonstrates how progress can be regenerative—restoring balance, enriching lives, and strengthening community,” said Joni Herison, Managing Director of Druk Asia. “Through our partnership with Inspire Citizens and the Museums of Bhutan, we can mobilize a new generation of global shapers—future leaders who will create meaningful impact across cultures and communities.”

Guardians of Culture: Bhutan’s Living Heritage

At the heart of these learning journeys are the Museums of Bhutan, which stand as living repositories of the nation’s cultural identity. The programmes invite schools and educators to step beyond conventional classrooms and engage in real-world learning in the world’s only carbon-negative country.

“Bhutan is unique—a place where culture is lived, deeply anchored in the values of humanity,” said Tshering Uden Penjor, Chief Curator, Museum Division, Department of Culture & Dzongkha Development, Ministry of Home Affairs.

“We are excited to welcome Inspire Citizens to collaborate with us to inspire youths around the world to be Guardians of Culture. In an increasingly interconnected world, these learning journeys will offer a blueprint for the future. We hope both international and Bhutanese students will cultivate this guardian mindset, driving regenerative change that uplifts communities and ecosystems alike.”

Hands-On Learning for a Regenerative Future

Participants will collaborate with Bhutanese youth, Civil Society Organisations (CSOs), and cultural practitioners on projects that support heritage preservation and storytelling, explore the intersection of creativity and ecology, and reflect on universal values that transcend borders.

To further strengthen this vision, a Building Fund for the Museums of Bhutan has been established to renovate and enhance facilities at both the National Museum of Bhutan and the Royal Heritage Museum. Outdoor learning spaces will be created to foster connection, dialogue, and regenerative leadership.

Education That Transforms

Each journey follows Inspire Citizens’ Empathy to Impact model—a framework guiding participants from awareness to action. Learners will cultivate curiosity, compassion, and agency through authentic engagement, while exploring themes of stewardship, diversity, and reciprocal partnership.

“We aim to create transformative experiences that inspire participants to care deeply — for people, for culture, and for the planet,” said Scott Jamieson, Global Collaborations Lead, Inspire Citizens. “Bhutan’s harmony between tradition and modernity makes it an unparalleled destination for schools seeking depth and meaning in global citizenship education. Our goal is to help students grow into leaders who act thoughtfully and regeneratively — both locally and globally.”

“Educators are catalysts for change. Through these programs, we also want teachers to experience firsthand how to nurture empathy, intercultural understanding, and stewardship — skills they bring back to students. Learning alongside Bhutanese communities allows both students and educators to grow into leaders who act thoughtfully and with compassion,” added Jamieson.

A Learning Sanctuary in the Himalayas

Set amidst Bhutan’s pristine valleys and spiritual serenity, these Inspired Experiences blend education, culture, and sustainability—nurturing both intellect and heart. Here in the Himalayas, the mountains themselves become mentors, reminding participants that true learning begins with empathy and that the journey of understanding is, above all, an act of connection and purpose.

For All Interested Schools and Educators

Schools and educators worldwide are invited to join a special introductory webinar on 20 November 2025 at 5 PM (SGT) to learn more about these transformative learning journeys. The session will offer an in-depth look into the programme’s vision, structure, and upcoming opportunities. Participants will also have the chance to engage directly with the teams from Druk Asia, Inspire Citizens, and the Museums of Bhutan to explore collaborations and tailor immersive learning experiences aligned with their school’s educational goals.

Find out more.