July 14: The first ever Golden Youth Camp has ended in Thimphu. Her Majesty the Queen Ashi Tshering Pem Wangchuck awarded certificates to the participants at a function on Saturday, July 12.

Her Majesty is the President of the Youth Development Fund. Addressing the function Her Majesty the Queen said youth must grow intellectually, emotionally and physically in a positive way.

Her Majesty raised concerns on the rising youth related problems like substance abuse, prostitution and rising crime. Her Majesty the Queen told the youth that they must strive to make Bhutan a better place for today and for the future.

Speaking on the Golden Youth Award, Her Majesty said the Youth Development Fund will reward the most outstanding youth with a scholarship to study abroad. She said the youth must strive to be leaders and help make a difference in the lives of their friends, family and the community.

Her Majesty the Queen also awarded certificates to the participants, volunteers and coordinators of the Golden Youth Camp. It was followed by a cultural programme.

Their Royal Highnesses the Princesses Ashi Chimi Yangzom Wangchuck, Ashi Kesang Choden Wangchuck and His Royal Highness the Prince Dasho Ugyen Jigme Wangchuck also attended the closing ceremony.

Cabinet Ministers, the Opposition Leader, the National Council Chairperson, senior government officials and representatives from the international agencies also attended the function.

145 students from classes six, eight, 10 and 12 from across the country competed for the title of golden youth. Organizers have however not been able to decide the winners of the Golden Youth Award.

The Youth Development Fund says eight youth- four girls and four boys, will be identified as the golden youth. Two out-of-school youth will also be identified as golden youth.

The award will be presented during the Annual Youth Festival to be held on November 11 coinciding with the birth anniversary of His Majesty the Fourth Druk Gyalpo, which is also celebrated as the Children’s Day.