Madhu Prakash Invited by Bhutan Prime Minister to Advise on Educational System

by Joe Savrock (September 2009)

UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. – Madhu S. Prakash, professor of educational theory and policy, has received a personal invitation from Jigmi Thinley, prime minister of Bhutan, to meet with him and other elected officials to offer suggestions for creating a Bhutanese educational system that reflects that country’s philosophy of life and happiness.

Thinley tabbed Prakash as one of a number of invitees who represent “some of the most knowledgeable and experienced educators worldwide who have the expertise to help us reach our shared aspirations.” Members of Bhutan’s Royal Education Council are also expected to attend, as well as top Bhutanese educators and curriculum design specialists.

Bhutan established a philosophy of Gross National Happiness (GNH) several decades ago as a positive model for Bhutan citizens to live in harmony with nature and each other. “If we succeed in transforming our educational system in Bhutan on a national scale toward these ends, it could have a very positive influence far beyond our own borders in helping create a better world,” said Thinley in his invitation to Prakash.

The meetings are scheduled to take place Dec. 7–12 in the capital city of Thimpu.

Prakash’s research focuses on philosophy of education, indigenous cultures, grassroots movements, and cultural diversity. She has co-authored several books, including Grassroots Postmodernism: Remaking the Soil of Cultures and Escaping Education: Living as Learning within Grassroots Cultures.