TOWS Matrix Analysis to Strengthen the Scouting Program in Bhutan

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to assess the Scouting program in Bhutan in order to
identify the key issues that affect the Scouting program and recommend a workable
strategy to Bhutan Scouts Association (BSA). Scouting for Bhutan is not simply a youth
engagement program but a vision of the great monarchs. The Scouting program in Bhutan
was initially started in response to His Majesty, the Fourth King, Jigme Singye
Wangchuck’s concern for youth in the face of emerging challenges for the young people,
the future of Bhutan. His Majesty, the King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck is the
Patron of BSA and the Royal Patronage inspired numerous initiatives such as Scout
Leadership Training Program and others that helped to revitalize Scouting in Bhutan. This
paper presen1ts TOWS matrix analysis of the responses and views of different stakeholders
gathered through key informant interviews (n=157), focused group discussions (n= 270),
and surveys (n= 350). The analysis is carried out within the framework of strategic
priorities of the World Organization of Scout Movement (WOSM). The findings suggest
that the BSA has been witnessing an increasing number of dropout rates attributable to
several causes such as the lack of recognition and reward; monotonous programs; time
constraints; incompetent Scout leaders; and poor adult and peer support. The dropout or
leakage of Scouts is noticed to be occurring mostly in transition from Nachung Scouts to
Nazhoen Scouts. The proposed recommendations are aimed at fulfilling the vision and
mission of BSA by addressing attrition through quality programs, enhancing the
competency of leaders, and strengthening good governance practices.