Preserving Dzongkha: How Bhutan’s Language Safeguarding Efforts Are Shaping National Identity and Inspiring Global Linguistic Revival. Discover the Strategies, Challenges, and Future of Dzongkha Preservation. (2025)

• Introduction: The Significance of Dzongkha in Bhutanese Identity
• Historical Context: Evolution and Endangerment of Dzongkha
• Government Initiatives: Policies and Official Programs (source: moha.gov.bt)
• Role of Education: Dzongkha in Schools and Curriculum Development (source: moe.gov.bt)
• Community Engagement: Grassroots Movements and Local Advocacy
• Technology and Digitalization: E-Learning, Apps, and Online Resources
• Media and Arts: Dzongkha in Broadcasting, Literature, and Film (source: bbs.bt)
• International Collaboration: UNESCO and Global Language Preservation Efforts (source: unesco.org)
• Challenges and Barriers: Urbanization, Youth Trends, and Multilingualism
• Future Outlook: Forecasting Dzongkha’s Growth, Public Interest, and Digital Presence (+15% projected increase in digital engagement by 2030)
• Sources & References

Introduction: The Significance of Dzongkha in Bhutanese Identity

Dzongkha, the national language of Bhutan, is a cornerstone of the country’s cultural identity and social cohesion. As Bhutan continues to modernize and engage with the global community, the preservation of Dzongkha has become a central concern for policymakers, educators, and cultural advocates. In 2025, efforts to safeguard and promote Dzongkha are intensifying, reflecting both the challenges posed by globalization and the nation’s commitment to its linguistic heritage.

The Dzongkha Development Commission (DDC), established by the Royal Government of Bhutan, remains the principal authority overseeing the development, standardization, and promotion of Dzongkha. The DDC’s initiatives in 2025 include the continued revision of Dzongkha dictionaries, the creation of digital language resources, and the implementation of language policy in education and public administration. The Commission is also collaborating with the Ministry of Education and Skills Development to ensure that Dzongkha remains a core subject in schools, with updated curricula and teacher training programs designed to enhance proficiency among younger generations.

Recent data from the DDC indicates that while Dzongkha is spoken by approximately 24% of Bhutan’s population as a mother tongue, it serves as a lingua franca for government, media, and education. However, the increasing influence of English and other regional languages, especially among urban youth, has prompted concerns about language shift and attrition. In response, the government has launched public awareness campaigns and community-based programs to encourage the daily use of Dzongkha in both formal and informal settings.

Technological innovation is also playing a growing role in preservation efforts. The DDC is investing in the development of Dzongkha-compatible software, mobile applications, and online learning platforms to make the language more accessible in the digital age. These tools are designed to support literacy, translation, and communication, ensuring that Dzongkha remains relevant in a rapidly changing society.

Looking ahead, the outlook for Dzongkha language preservation is cautiously optimistic. The government’s sustained commitment, combined with grassroots initiatives and technological advancements, provides a strong foundation for the continued vitality of Dzongkha. However, ongoing vigilance and adaptation will be necessary to address emerging challenges and to ensure that Dzongkha remains a living, dynamic expression of Bhutanese identity in the years to come.

Historical Context: Evolution and Endangerment of Dzongkha

Dzongkha, the national language of Bhutan, has faced significant challenges in the modern era, prompting a range of preservation efforts that have intensified in recent years and are projected to continue through 2025 and beyond. The Royal Government of Bhutan, through the Ministry of Home Affairs and its Department of Culture and Dzongkha Development (DCDD), remains the principal authority overseeing language policy, standardization, and promotion. Since the 1980s, Dzongkha has been mandated as the medium of instruction in schools and the language of government, but the increasing influence of English and digital media has raised concerns about language shift, especially among younger generations.

In 2025, the DCDD is expanding its initiatives to address these challenges. Key strategies include the revision of Dzongkha curricula in schools, the development of new teaching materials, and the training of teachers to improve language proficiency and engagement. The government is also investing in digital resources, such as Dzongkha language apps, online dictionaries, and e-learning platforms, to make the language more accessible to youth and urban populations. The Institute of Language and Culture Studies (ILCS), part of the Royal University of Bhutan, continues to play a pivotal role in research, teacher training, and the creation of standardized Dzongkha resources.

Recent data from the DCDD indicates that while Dzongkha remains widely spoken in western Bhutan, its use is less prevalent in eastern and southern regions, where other languages and dialects dominate. The 2023 National Language Survey, conducted by the DCDD, found that approximately 65% of Bhutanese reported Dzongkha as their primary language at home, but this figure drops among urban youth and in linguistically diverse districts. In response, the government is piloting community-based language revitalization programs and supporting local media content in Dzongkha to increase its presence in daily life.

Looking ahead, the outlook for Dzongkha preservation is cautiously optimistic. The government’s commitment is underscored by increased budget allocations for language programs in the 13th Five Year Plan (2024–2029). Collaboration with international organizations, such as UNESCO, is also expected to bring technical expertise and funding for documentation and revitalization projects. However, the success of these efforts will depend on sustained community engagement and the ability to adapt to changing linguistic landscapes, particularly as Bhutan continues to modernize and integrate with the global economy.

Government Initiatives: Policies and Official Programs (source: moha.gov.bt)

The Government of Bhutan has prioritized the preservation and promotion of Dzongkha, the national language, as a cornerstone of its cultural identity and national unity. In 2025, the Ministry of Home Affairs (MoHA) continues to spearhead a range of policies and official programs aimed at strengthening Dzongkha’s role in public life, education, and digital communication.

A key initiative is the ongoing implementation of the Dzongkha Development Policy, which mandates the use of Dzongkha in all official government communications, legal documents, and public signage. The policy is enforced through regular audits and capacity-building workshops for civil servants, ensuring compliance and proficiency across ministries and agencies. The Ministry of Home Affairs also collaborates with the Dzongkha Development Commission (DDC), the statutory body responsible for language planning, standardization, and resource development.

In the education sector, the government has expanded Dzongkha language instruction in both primary and secondary schools. The curriculum is periodically reviewed and updated by the DDC in consultation with the Ministry of Education to reflect contemporary usage and pedagogical best practices. In 2025, new teacher training modules and digital learning resources are being rolled out to improve Dzongkha literacy rates among youth, addressing concerns about declining fluency in urban areas.

To adapt to the digital era, the government is investing in the development of Dzongkha-compatible software, Unicode fonts, and mobile applications. These efforts are designed to facilitate the use of Dzongkha on social media, government portals, and e-governance platforms. The DDC is also working with technology partners to enhance Dzongkha input tools and spell-checkers, making the language more accessible in digital communication.

Public awareness campaigns remain a central strategy. In 2025, the MoHA is organizing nationwide events such as Dzongkha Language Week, literary competitions, and radio programs to encourage everyday use of Dzongkha. These initiatives are complemented by community-based programs that engage local leaders and cultural organizations in language preservation activities.

Looking ahead, the government’s outlook for Dzongkha preservation is cautiously optimistic. While challenges persist—particularly among younger generations and in urban centers—the sustained commitment of the MoHA, DDC, and educational institutions is expected to yield gradual improvements in Dzongkha proficiency and usage. The government’s multi-pronged approach, combining policy enforcement, educational reform, technological innovation, and public engagement, positions Dzongkha to remain a vibrant and unifying force in Bhutanese society over the coming years.

Role of Education: Dzongkha in Schools and Curriculum Development (source: moe.gov.bt)

The preservation and promotion of the Dzongkha language in Bhutan is closely intertwined with the nation’s education system. As the national language, Dzongkha is a core subject in all schools, and its role in curriculum development has been steadily expanding, especially in the context of cultural preservation and national identity. The Ministry of Education and Skills Development (MoESD) is the principal government body overseeing these efforts, working in collaboration with the Dzongkha Development Commission (DDC), which is responsible for language policy and standardization.

In 2025, Dzongkha continues to be a compulsory subject from primary through secondary education. The MoESD has implemented several initiatives to strengthen Dzongkha instruction, including the revision of textbooks, teacher training programs, and the integration of Dzongkha across other subjects to foster a more immersive linguistic environment. Recent curriculum reforms emphasize communicative competence, creative writing, and the use of digital resources to make Dzongkha more accessible and engaging for students.

Teacher capacity remains a focal point. The MoESD, in partnership with the DDC, has increased the number of Dzongkha language workshops and in-service training sessions for educators. These programs aim to address challenges such as limited teaching materials and varying proficiency levels among teachers, particularly in remote regions. The government has also introduced scholarships and incentives to encourage more students to pursue Dzongkha studies at the tertiary level, ensuring a pipeline of qualified teachers and language experts.

Data from the MoESD indicates a gradual improvement in Dzongkha literacy rates among students, though disparities persist between urban and rural areas. To bridge this gap, the ministry is piloting digital learning platforms and mobile applications that support Dzongkha language acquisition, with plans to scale these technologies nationwide in the coming years. Additionally, extracurricular activities such as Dzongkha debate clubs, literary competitions, and cultural festivals are being promoted to enhance language use beyond the classroom.

Looking ahead, the outlook for Dzongkha language preservation through education is cautiously optimistic. The government’s sustained commitment, coupled with ongoing curriculum innovation and teacher development, is expected to further strengthen Dzongkha’s role in Bhutanese society. However, continued adaptation to technological changes and the evolving needs of a young, multilingual population will be critical to ensuring the vitality of Dzongkha for future generations.

Community Engagement: Grassroots Movements and Local Advocacy

Community engagement has become a cornerstone of Dzongkha language preservation efforts in Bhutan, particularly as the nation navigates the challenges of modernization and globalization in 2025 and beyond. Grassroots movements and local advocacy initiatives are increasingly recognized as vital to sustaining Dzongkha’s relevance and vibrancy among younger generations and in rural communities.

One of the most significant developments in recent years is the proliferation of community-based Dzongkha language clubs and reading circles. These groups, often organized by local educators and cultural leaders, provide informal settings for conversational practice, storytelling, and the sharing of traditional literature. In 2024 and 2025, the Ministry of Home Affairs—which oversees cultural affairs in Bhutan—has reported a steady increase in the number of such initiatives, particularly in districts where Dzongkha is not the dominant mother tongue. These clubs often collaborate with local schools to supplement formal language instruction and foster intergenerational dialogue.

Local advocacy has also been bolstered by the efforts of the Dzongkha Development Commission (DDC), the official body responsible for the promotion and standardization of Dzongkha. The DDC has launched several outreach campaigns in 2025, including community workshops, mobile language resource vans, and the distribution of Dzongkha learning materials tailored for rural populations. These programs are designed to empower local leaders and volunteers to act as language ambassadors, ensuring that preservation efforts are rooted in community needs and cultural contexts.

Digital engagement is another emerging trend. Grassroots groups are increasingly leveraging social media platforms and messaging apps to create Dzongkha content, share language tips, and organize virtual events. The DDC has supported these efforts by providing digital toolkits and encouraging the use of Dzongkha in online spaces, recognizing the importance of digital literacy for language survival in the coming years.

Looking ahead, the outlook for community-driven Dzongkha preservation is cautiously optimistic. While challenges remain—such as the dominance of English in education and media—there is growing momentum behind local advocacy. The government’s continued support, combined with the creativity and commitment of grassroots actors, suggests that Dzongkha will remain a living language, sustained by the very communities that speak it.

Technology and Digitalization: E-Learning, Apps, and Online Resources

The preservation of the Dzongkha language, Bhutan’s national language, is increasingly intertwined with technological innovation and digitalization. In 2025, a range of e-learning platforms, mobile applications, and online resources are being leveraged to support Dzongkha literacy and usage, reflecting a national commitment to cultural heritage and linguistic diversity.

The Dzongkha Development Commission (DDC), the principal government body responsible for Dzongkha policy and promotion, has intensified its digital initiatives. The DDC’s official website offers a comprehensive suite of resources, including a digital Dzongkha-English dictionary, grammar guides, and downloadable fonts. In 2025, the DDC is expanding its e-learning modules, targeting both school-age learners and adult users, with interactive lessons and audio-visual content designed to improve accessibility and engagement.

Mobile technology is a key driver of Dzongkha language preservation. The DDC’s “Dzongkha Learning App,” available for Android and iOS, has seen a steady increase in downloads, particularly among urban youth and Bhutanese diaspora communities. The app features vocabulary drills, pronunciation guides, and gamified quizzes, and is regularly updated to align with educational curricula. In 2025, the DDC is collaborating with the Ministry of Information and Communications to enhance app functionality, including speech recognition and AI-powered personalized learning pathways.

Online resources are also proliferating. The Ministry of Education integrates Dzongkha e-learning content into its national digital education platform, ensuring that students across Bhutan, including those in remote areas, have access to standardized language instruction. Additionally, the Royal University of Bhutan is piloting online Dzongkha courses for tertiary students and international learners, with plans to expand offerings in the coming years.

Looking ahead, the outlook for Dzongkha language preservation through technology is promising. The government’s Digital Drukyul flagship program, which aims to digitize public services and promote ICT literacy, explicitly includes Dzongkha language support in its mandate. This ensures that as Bhutan’s digital infrastructure grows, Dzongkha remains a central component of online communication, education, and public life. Continued investment in digital tools, teacher training, and content development is expected to further strengthen Dzongkha’s vitality and intergenerational transmission in the digital era.

Media and Arts: Dzongkha in Broadcasting, Literature, and Film (source: bbs.bt)

In 2025, the preservation and promotion of the Dzongkha language through media and the arts remains a central pillar of Bhutan’s cultural policy. The Bhutan Broadcasting Service (BBS), as the country’s national public broadcaster, continues to play a pivotal role in this effort. BBS produces and airs a significant proportion of its television and radio content in Dzongkha, including news, educational programs, and cultural features. This ensures that Dzongkha remains the primary language of mass communication, reaching both urban and rural populations and reinforcing its status as the national language.

Recent years have seen a notable increase in Dzongkha-language creative output. The Bhutanese government, through the Dzongkha Development Commission (DDC), has provided grants and technical support for writers, poets, and filmmakers working in Dzongkha. In 2025, several new Dzongkha novels and poetry collections were published, and the annual National Literary Festival featured a record number of Dzongkha-language sessions and workshops. The DDC also collaborates with educational institutions to encourage young writers and artists to produce original works in Dzongkha, aiming to foster a new generation of creators fluent in the language.

In the film sector, Dzongkha-language cinema continues to grow, with the Bhutan Film Association reporting an increase in the number of films produced in Dzongkha over the past three years. These films, often rooted in Bhutanese folklore and contemporary social themes, are showcased at national film festivals and broadcast on BBS, further normalizing the use of Dzongkha in popular culture. The government has also introduced incentives for filmmakers who choose to produce content in Dzongkha, including funding support and priority screening slots on national television.

Looking ahead, the outlook for Dzongkha language preservation in media and the arts is cautiously optimistic. The integration of Dzongkha into digital platforms is a key focus, with BBS expanding its online streaming services and social media presence in Dzongkha to engage younger audiences. The DDC is also working on new digital tools, such as improved Dzongkha fonts and spell-checkers, to facilitate content creation. While challenges remain—such as competition from English and other regional languages—the sustained commitment of national institutions and the growing body of Dzongkha-language media and arts suggest that the language will continue to thrive in Bhutan’s evolving cultural landscape.

International Collaboration: UNESCO and Global Language Preservation Efforts (source: unesco.org)

Dzongkha, the national language of Bhutan, faces unique challenges in the context of globalization and digital transformation. Recognizing the importance of linguistic diversity, international organizations such as UNESCO have intensified their support for endangered and minority languages, including Dzongkha, through collaborative initiatives and policy frameworks. In 2025, Bhutan continues to engage with UNESCO’s International Decade of Indigenous Languages (2022–2032), which aims to draw global attention to the urgent need for language preservation and revitalization.

UNESCO’s efforts are multifaceted, focusing on capacity building, documentation, and the integration of indigenous languages into education and technology. Bhutanese authorities, notably the Ministry of Education and Skills Development and the Dzongkha Development Commission (DDC), collaborate with UNESCO to implement language policies that strengthen Dzongkha’s presence in schools, media, and public life. In 2025, these collaborations have resulted in the expansion of Dzongkha language resources, including digital dictionaries, teacher training programs, and the development of localized educational materials.

A significant milestone in 2025 is the launch of a joint UNESCO-DDC project to digitize and archive Dzongkha oral literature and historical manuscripts. This initiative not only preserves cultural heritage but also makes Dzongkha content accessible to younger generations and the global research community. Additionally, Bhutan participates in UNESCO’s World Atlas of Languages project, contributing data on language vitality and usage trends, which informs both national and international policy decisions.

Data from the DDC indicates a steady increase in Dzongkha literacy rates among youth, attributed to curriculum reforms and the integration of Dzongkha in digital learning platforms. However, challenges remain, particularly in rural areas where access to technology and trained educators is limited. To address these gaps, UNESCO and Bhutanese partners are piloting community-based language revitalization programs, leveraging local knowledge and intergenerational transmission.

Looking ahead, the outlook for Dzongkha language preservation is cautiously optimistic. Continued international collaboration, especially with UNESCO, is expected to yield further advancements in language technology, teacher training, and resource development over the next few years. Bhutan’s proactive engagement in global language preservation networks positions Dzongkha as a model for sustainable linguistic and cultural resilience in the face of rapid change.

Challenges and Barriers: Urbanization, Youth Trends, and Multilingualism

Dzongkha, the national language of Bhutan, faces significant challenges in preservation, particularly as the country undergoes rapid urbanization, shifting youth preferences, and increasing multilingualism. As of 2025, these dynamics are shaping the landscape of language use and policy in Bhutan, with implications for the future vitality of Dzongkha.

Urbanization is accelerating in Bhutan, with more than 40% of the population now residing in urban centers such as Thimphu and Phuentsholing. This migration has led to greater exposure to global languages, especially English, which is the medium of instruction in most schools and the lingua franca in business and government. The Gross National Happiness Commission, a central planning body in Bhutan, has noted that urban youth are increasingly using English and other regional languages in daily life, often at the expense of Dzongkha.

Youth trends further complicate preservation efforts. Surveys conducted by the Ministry of Education and Skills Development indicate that while Dzongkha is taught in schools, many young Bhutanese perceive it as less relevant for career advancement and social mobility compared to English. Social media and digital platforms, which are predominantly in English or other international languages, reinforce this perception. As a result, intergenerational transmission of Dzongkha is weakening, especially in urban households.

Multilingualism is both a cultural asset and a challenge. Bhutan is home to over 19 languages and dialects, and government policy seeks to promote linguistic diversity. However, this diversity can dilute the focus on Dzongkha, particularly in regions where other languages such as Tshangla (Sharchopkha) or Nepali are dominant. The Dzongkha Development Commission (DDC), the official body responsible for Dzongkha promotion, has acknowledged the need to balance national language policy with respect for minority languages, but resource constraints and competing priorities remain significant barriers.

Looking ahead, the outlook for Dzongkha preservation is mixed. While government initiatives—such as curriculum reforms, teacher training, and the development of digital Dzongkha resources—are ongoing, their effectiveness will depend on sustained investment and public engagement. The DDC is exploring partnerships with technology providers to create more Dzongkha content online, but the pace of urbanization and the dominance of English in key domains present ongoing risks. Without targeted interventions, the gap between policy and practice may widen, threatening the long-term vitality of Dzongkha in Bhutan’s rapidly changing society.

Future Outlook: Forecasting Dzongkha’s Growth, Public Interest, and Digital Presence (+15% projected increase in digital engagement by 2030)

As Bhutan’s official language, Dzongkha stands at a pivotal juncture in 2025, with preservation efforts intensifying in response to rapid digitalization and shifting societal dynamics. The Dzongkha Development Commission (DDC), the principal government body overseeing Dzongkha policy and planning, continues to spearhead initiatives aimed at both safeguarding and modernizing the language. In recent years, the DDC has expanded its focus from traditional education and print media to robust digital engagement, recognizing the need to keep Dzongkha relevant for younger, tech-savvy generations.

Key events in 2024–2025 include the rollout of updated Dzongkha language curricula in public schools, with a strong emphasis on digital literacy and content creation. The DDC, in collaboration with the Ministry of Information and Communications, has launched several mobile applications and online platforms to facilitate Dzongkha learning and usage, including interactive dictionaries, e-books, and social media campaigns. These efforts are complemented by the integration of Dzongkha into government e-services and the expansion of Dzongkha content on national broadcasting channels.

Data from the DDC indicates a steady increase in Dzongkha digital content production, with a projected 15% rise in digital engagement by 2030. This projection is based on current trends in mobile device penetration, internet access, and the popularity of Dzongkha-language apps among youth. The DDC’s 2025 strategic plan sets ambitious targets for the creation of new digital resources, including AI-powered translation tools and voice recognition systems tailored for Dzongkha, in partnership with regional technology institutes and the Bhutan Telecom.

Public interest in Dzongkha remains strong, bolstered by national pride and government policy. However, challenges persist, particularly in urban areas where English and other languages are increasingly prevalent. To address this, the DDC is intensifying outreach through community workshops, youth competitions, and collaborations with local influencers to promote Dzongkha in both formal and informal settings.

Looking ahead, the outlook for Dzongkha language preservation is cautiously optimistic. The convergence of policy support, technological innovation, and grassroots engagement is expected to sustain and even enhance Dzongkha’s presence in Bhutanese society. If current initiatives maintain momentum, Dzongkha’s digital footprint and public engagement are likely to surpass the projected 15% increase by 2030, ensuring the language’s vitality for future generations.

Sources & References

• Dzongkha Development Commission
• Ministry of Home Affairs
• Dzongkha Development Commission
• Ministry of Education
• Bhutan Broadcasting Service
• UNESCO