The 2026 School for Field Studies (SFS) Spring Semester Program in Bhutan concluded yesterday (May 4, 2026) with an engaging, student-led research symposium in Paro. A cohort of 26 American undergraduate students participated in the semester-long program and, during the final month, carried out group-directed research projects on topics including: “Stories of Change in Landscape and Lives,” “Biodiversity Monitoring along the Bumdra–Ragoe and Chelela,” and “Assessment of Plantation Survival Rates of the Million Tree Project of the Bhutan Ecological Society (BES).”

The symposium was attended by a diverse group of participants, including representatives from the Department of Agriculture and the Department of Forest and Park Services, as well as faculty and students from Paro College of Education and staff from BES. Their valuable insights and constructive feedback enriched the discussions and enhanced the students’ overall learning experience.

BES and SFS remain committed to working closely with partners and local stakeholders on long-term monitoring and research initiatives that contribute to Bhutan’s broader goals of food security, biodiversity conservation, and sustainable development.

The students will depart Bhutan on Wednesday, 6 April 2026, for their respective homes.

We are also excited to welcoming yet another group of students for the upcoming Summer Program, which begins on 3 June 2026.