The Department of Culture and Dzongkha Development (DCDD) successfully concluded its 5^th Summer Programme, themed "Embark on a Cultural Odyssey: Engaging Youth in Living Heritage," held from 3–10 July 2026 at its premises in Thimphu. The programme reaffirmed DCDD's commitment to engaging young people in the transmission and safeguarding of Bhutan's Intangible Cultural Heritage (ICH) by providing immersive learning experiences under the guidance of master practitioners and cultural experts.

The eight-day programme brought together 239 participants from across the country, including students from Thimphu, Gasa, Punakha, Wangdue Phodrang, Tsirang, Dagana, and Chhukha. The strong participation reflects a growing enthusiasm among Bhutanese youth to reconnect with, learn, and help preserve the nation's rich cultural heritage.

Designed to promote intergenerational transmission of knowledge and skills, the programme offered hands-on training in Bhutan's traditional performing arts, music, language, crafts, and conservation practices. Participants received practical instruction in Boedra (folk dance), Chham (mask dance), Dramnyen (lute), Lim (bamboo flute), Yangchen (dulcimer), Chiwang (two-stringed fiddle), Dzongkha grammar, calligraphy, xylography (woodblock carving and printing), sculpting and painting, and paper conservation.

Beyond acquiring practical skills, participants developed a deeper appreciation of Bhutan's living heritage and the importance of safeguarding it for future generations. By creating opportunities for young people to learn directly from experienced practitioners, the programme strengthens the intergenerational transmission of traditional knowledge, skills, and values, while inspiring youth to become active custodians of Bhutan's cultural identity.

Building on the success of this year's programme, DCDD plans to further strengthen future editions through earlier promotion, broader outreach to schools, enhanced digital engagement, improved participant communication, and greater investment in cultural learning resources, including traditional musical instruments.

As one of DCDD's flagship youth engagement initiatives, the Summer Programme continues to serve as an important platform for empowering the younger generation with the knowledge, skills, and values needed to safeguard, preserve, and promote Bhutan's rich Intangible Cultural Heritage for generations to come.