June 12, 2026
THIMPHU – More than 200 children and adolescents, including nuns, monks, and children with disabilities, celebrated the International Day of Play at Changlimithang Stadium today.
The event highlighted the importance of play in children’s learning, wellbeing and development, emphasising that play helps build physical health, social skills and cognitive abilities.
Minister of Education and Skills Development Yeezang De Thapa said play is one of the greatest gifts children can give themselves, as it brings joy, keeps them healthy, sharpens their minds and strengthens friendships.
“Through playing, children learn teamwork, creativity, confidence, resilience, respect and discipline that remain valuable throughout life,” said Lyonpo.
Recent data shows that only 23 percent of adolescents in Bhutan meet the recommended levels of physical activity.
The Nourishing Bhutan report states that nearly four out of five adolescents aged 13–17 are insufficiently active, while 30 percent spend more than three hours a day on sedentary activities. Only 15 percent regularly participate in physical education.
The National Health Survey 2023 also found that young people aged 15–24 are the least physically active group, particularly students.
Limited access to safe play areas, increasing screen time and fewer structured opportunities for physical activity are contributing to higher risks of overweight, obesity and non-communicable diseases.
A student from Draktsho Vocational Training Centre, Tshering Lham, said she was happy to be part of the celebration. “I am grateful that we, the children, were given the opportunity to take part in these activities,” she said.
Another student from Bhutan Football Academy, Thinley Dhendup Gyeltshen, said training alongside children with disabilities helped him learn new skills.
“I am happy that I could help them during the session,” he said.
A nun from Sherab Chholing Nunnery, Tshering Lhamo said sports help children stay fit and bring happiness into their lives.
“If we give full dedication to sports, it keeps our bodies healthy. Today, I learnt football tactics and made new friends,” she said.
President of the Bhutan Football Federation, Ugen Tsechup, said every footballer’s journey begins with play and called for greater investment in safe and inclusive spaces where children can remain active.
“Investing in such spaces is an investment in children’s health, wellbeing and future,” he said.
Deepa Rai, Media Officer of the Bhutan Football Federation, said sports not only keep children healthy and strong but also contribute to their overall growth.
“Sports sharpen the mind. Making quick decisions on the field and staying disciplined through practice helps children focus better and manage their time in school,” she said.
She said the Bhutan Football Federation believes grassroots programmes are essential.
“Starting with children aged six to 12 helps identify talent, teach skills early, build discipline and civic values, and keep football alive for future generations,” she said.
Participants called for greater investment in safe and inclusive play spaces and school-based physical activities.
The celebration was organised by the Ministry of Education and Skills Development, the Bhutan Football Federation and UNICEF. Organisers reaffirmed UNICEF’s long-term commitment to ensuring every child in Bhutan can exercise their right to play.