Employment History and Positions Held

• President, Paro College of Education, RUB (since August 2018)
• President, Samtse College of Education, RUB (2015-2018)
• Director of Research and External Relations (2011-2015)
• Lecturer and Dean (Academic), Paro College of Education (March 2007- June 2011)
• Lecturer and Programme Leader (Secondary Education Studies), Samtse College of
• Education (August 1997 – January 2007)

Teaching and Research Supervision

Developed courses, taught undergraduate and postgraduate (both pre-service and in-service) students, and supervised research dissertations to completion since 1997.

• Principal Supervisor (PhD research), Asian Research Institute for International Social Work, Shukutoku University, Japan, since July 2017.
• Visiting Lecturer at the Department of Development Studies, Palacky University, Olomouc, the Czech Republic (in 2015)
• Co-Supervisor (PhD research), Oulu University, Finland, during 2013.
• Supervisor (Masters research), Paro College of Education (2007 – 2013)
• He has taught Masters, postgraduate, and undergraduate courses since1997, including, Qualitative Research, Research Dissertation, Curriculum Theory, Principles of Learning, Introduction to Educational Research, Curriculum Studies, Teaching Skills, Teaching Strategies, Understanding the Learner, Learning Process, Counseling Processes and Skills , English Drama and Poetry, Prose Fiction and Non-Fiction, Bhutanese Education System, Sound and Speech, and Academic Writing.

Policy and Programme Development

Developed policies, programmes and procedures for the enhancement of teaching, research and professional development in the Royal University of Bhutan.

• Led the development of a programme called English for Effective Communication Skills for Teachers as part of a core group for EECST in March-April 2017.
• Initiated and led the development of Educational Innovation and Practice: A Biannual Journal of Samtse College of Education (first published in 2016), which was first launched as Rig- gTer: Academic Journal of Samtse College of Education in 2002 (whose development he initiated and led).
• Initiated and led the development of SHES-RIG Pages: a Biannual Newsletter of Samtse College of Education in 2016.
• Led the designing, writing and editing of Bhutan Education Blueprint 2014-2024: Rethinking Education as part of the drafting team for the BEB project in October 2014.
• Initiated and led the establishment and operationalization of the Institute for Gross National Happiness (GNH) Studies (iGNHaS) as an independent, inclusive, interdisciplinary, secular, and non-partisan research institute and think-tank in the Royal University of Bhutan during in 2013.
• Developed and submitted a proposal for setting up the Bhutan Research and Innovation Council (BRIC) to the Gross National Happiness Commission, Royal Government of Bhutan, in October 2012. The proposal recommended setting up a national research foundation with funds to be made accessible to researchers and innovators in the country. The proposal was received positively by GNHC. As a result, GNHC has indicated that for the short term, a national research fund will be set up that will enable the growth of a vibrant environment for research and innovation in the country.
• Initiated and developed ‘Zhib-Tshol: RUB Research Policy Guidelines’ during 2012-2013.
• Initiated and successfully launched an international peer-reviewed research journal called ‘Bhutan Journal of Research and Development’ with journal policy, editorial policy, manuscript guidelines, and standard blind review processes fully set up in 2012.
• Initiated and developed the RUB Higher Degrees Research Framework during 2012-2013.
• Established formal linkages between several external universities/other organizations and the Royal University of Bhutan during 2012-2013.
• Initiated and set up policies and procedures for instituting the RUB Annual Faculty Research Meet (FRM) as a biannual research event for RUB and international researchers and scholars in 2011. ‘FRM’ is now fully institutionalized.
• Initiated the development and launch of ‘The RUB Connection: A Biannual Newsletter of the Royal University of Bhutan’, RUB’s first newsletter in 2012.
• Initiated the development of standard policies and procedures for RUB’s Annual University Research Grant that helped to streamline the grant awarding processes and to ensure quality of research in the university.
• As part of the Working Group for establishing Bhutan Council for School Examination and Assessment (BCSEA), developed the policies, strategic and operational plans for BCSEA, which was submitted to the Ministry of Education in 2010. BCSEA was established as an autonomous national school examination and assessment agency in 2011 replacing the erstwhile Bhutan Board of Examination Division (BBED).
• Developed course handbooks for the Bachelor of Education (distance) programme for Samtse College of Education based on the principles of self-instructional design and drawing upon international best practice (e.g. Indira Gandhi National Open University, Delhi, and Open University, UK).
• Initiated and developed the English language and literature courses for the Bachelor of Education (B.Ed) programme for Paro College of Education in 2009.
• Initiated, developed and implemented a system of student evaluation of course and staff performance based on international best practice for Paro College of Education in 2009.
• Initiated and developed a major portion of the English language and literature courses for the Bachelor of Education (B.Ed) programme for National Institute of Education, Samtse in 1997.
• To promote research in Samtse College of Education, set up a Research Committee in 2002 for the first time in that college and developed research guidelines.
• Initiated and successfully launched ‘Rig-Gter: Academic Journal of Samtse College of Education’ in 2002, which is now a research journal.

Publications

Books

• Thinley, D. et al (2014). Improving Women’s Participation in Local Governance: An Explorative Study of Women’s Leadership Journeys in Eight Districts of Bhutan. Thimphu: Institute for GNH Studies, Royal University of Bhutan (Research project supported by UN Women SARO, New Delhi).
• Thinley, D. (2005). The Boneless Tongue: Figurative proverbs, wise sayings and incidental remarks that articulate a people’s way of life, cultural experience and accumulated wisdom. KMT Press: Phuntsholing (Bhutan).

Book chapters

• Thinley, D. (2016). Foreword to ‘Education in Bhutan: From the Buddhist monastery to Gross National Happiness Education’ (pp. 4-9). Singapore: Springer Press.
• Thinley, D. (2015). Cultural Continuity and School Education in Bhutan: Current Initiatives, Challenges and Opportunities in ‘The Himalayan Bridge’ (pp. 229-241). New Delhi: KW Publishers.
• Thinley, D (2013). Those Eccentric Teachers in ‘The Centenarian: 100 Years of Educating the Nation’ (pp. 18-21). Thimphu: Ministry of Education, Royal Government of Bhutan.
• Thinley, D. (2008). No Longer the ploughman’s song: A Layman’s Description of Aspects of Change in a Bhutanese Village, ‘Bhutan: Ways of Knowing’, Mason, R and Rennie, F (Eds.). Information Age Publishing: Conn. USA.
• Thinley, D. (2008). The Power of Bhutanese Folk Literature, Bhutan: Ways of Knowing, Mason, R. and Rennie, F (Eds.). Information Age Publishing: Conn. USA.
• Thinley, D. (2007). Cultural Maintenance and Promotion: The Print Media’s Role in Providing Space for Knowledge and Discourse, Media and Public Culture: Proceedings of the Second International Seminar on Bhutan Studies (pp. 70-108), The Centre for Bhutan Studies, Thimphu.

Journal articles

• Thinley, D. (2016). A Blueprint for Educational Development: A Policy Highlight. Educational Innovation and Practice: A biannual journal of Samtse College of Education, Volume 01, Number 01, pp. 67-70).
• Thinley, D. (2014). Cultural Continuity and School Education in Bhutan: Current Initiatives, Challenges and Opportunities. Indian Journal of Research, Volume 2, No. 2, pp. 95-102.
• Thinley, D. & Maxwell, T. W (2013). Pedagogies for Stimulating Students’ Responses to First Language Oral Literature: An Action Research Project in a Secondary School in Bhutan. Journal of International Society for Teacher Education, Volume 17, No. 2, pp. 39-48.
• Thinley, D. & Maxwell, T. W. (2013). The Role of English in Culture Preservation in Bhutan. Journal of Bhutan Studies, Volume 28, Summer 2013, pp. 1-29.
• Ahonen, P., Thinley, D. & Korkeamäki, R. (2013). Bhutanese Teachers’ Perceptions about Gross National Happiness in Education for Sustainable Development. Bhutan Journal of Research and Development, Volume 2, No. 2, pp. 67-79.
• Thinley, D. et al (2013). Researching Women’s Participation in Local Government in Bhutan: A description of the methodology used in a recent study. Bhutan Journal of Research and Development, Volume 2, No. 1, pp. 75-86.
• Thinley, D. & Biddha, S. (2010). Building Students’ Oral Fluency: Perspectives on the Use of Spoken English in Bhutanese Classrooms. Rabsel: the CERD Education Journal, Volume XIV, pp.11-34.
• Thinley, D. (2009). Document Research: A Description of Procedures for Gathering and Analysing Mute Evidence. Rabsel: the CERD Education Journal, Volume XIII, pp. 1-10.
• Thinley, D. (2004). Portrait of an Institute: National Institute of Education, Samtse. Rabsel: the CERD Education Journal, Volume IV, pp. 75- 89.
• Thinley, D. (2002). From Noisy Proclamations to Providing Experiences: Sketches from a Teacher’s Classroom Practice. Rabsel: the CERD Education Journal, Volume 1, pp. 31-57.

Technical Reports/Proposals

• Dorji Thinley et al. Report on review of Postgraduate Diploma in English. Sherubste College (March 2016).
• Dorji Thinley et al (March 2016). Validation report on MA English programme. Sherubtse College.
• Kezang Deki, Dr Dorji Thinley, Wangchuk Rabten, Phuntsho Lhamo, N.B. Raika, Dhendup Tshering and Sonam Dorji (2016). Report On The PGDE/B.Ed. Recruitment Process. Submitted to the Royal Civil Service Commission, Thimphu.
• Sangya Dorji, Dasho Sangay Wangchuk, Dr Dorji Thinley, Dasho Tshering Wangchuk, and Thinley Namgyel (2014). The Programme Advisory Committee Report. Submitted to the President of the Royal Institute of Law.
• Dorji Thinley (October 2012). Bhutan Research and Innovation Council (BRIC): A Concept Note. A proposal presented to the Gross National Happiness Commission, Royal Government of Bhutan on 26 October 2012, with the recommendation for setting up a national research foundation with funds made accessible to researchers and innovators in the country.
• Dorji Thinley, Kinley Dorji, Dawa Lhamo and Karma Tshering (2012). Validation Panel Report on Bachelor of Arts (English) Programme of Sherubtse College ), Kanglung), Royal University of Bhutan, September 2012.
• Dasho Sangay Dorji, Dr Jagar Dorji, Dorji Thinley, Karma Tshering (Novemebr 2011). Validation Panel Report on Bachelor of Language and Literature and Diploma in Language and Literature, Institute of Language and Culture Studies, Royal University of Bhutan, November 2012.
• Phub Rinchen, Sangay Tenzin, Dorji Thinley, Tshering Dolkar, Wangchuk Namgyal, Karma Zam and Leela D. Sharma (October 2010). Operationalization of Bhutan Council for School Examination and Assessment (BCSEA): A Proposal, submitted to the Ministry of Education, Royal Government of Bhutan.
• Dorji Thinley (May 2008). Report on Programmes offered at Riverside School, Ahmedabad, Gujarat (India), submitted to Royal Education Council, Thimphu, Bhutan.
• Dorji Thinley, T.P. Wangdi, C. Dorji, and K.C. Jose (2006). Validation Panel Report on BA English (Honours) Programme of Sherubtse College, Royal University of Bhutan, 26 November 2006.
• Jagar Dorji, K.B. Wakhley, Karma Tshering, and Dorji Thinley (2005) Validation Panel Report on Bachelor of Engineering (Civil) Programme of College of Science and Technology, Royal University of Bhutan, November 2005.

Publications in Print Media

• Thinley, D. The Peach Motif (Perspective), Bhutan Observer, Volume VIII, Issue 5 (p. 9), 01 February 2013.
• Thinley, D. Party Symbology (Perspective), Bhutan Observer, Volume VIII, Issue 4 (p. 9), 27 January 2013.
• Thinley, D. The Power of Naming (Perspective), Bhutan Observer, Volume VIII, Issue 1 (p. 9), 4 January 2013.
• Thinley, D. The Power of Work (Perspective). Bhutan Observer, Volume VII, Issue 51 (p. 9), 28 December 2012.
• Thinley, D. Responsibility with Recognition (Perspective). Bhutan Observer, Volume VII, Issue 50 (p. 9), 21 December 2012.
• Thinley, D. Filling the Knowledge Gap (Perspective). The RUB Connection: A Biannual Newsletter of the Royal University of Bhutan. Volume 1, Number 1, July 2012.
• Thinley, D. Five Habits of the Heart (Perspective). Bhutan Observer, Issue 48, Volume VII (p. 9), 7 December 2012.
• Thinley, D. The Abstract in a Democracy (Perspective). Bhutan Observer, Issue 47, Volume VII (p. 9), 30 November 2012.
• Thinley, D. Higher Education Should be a Driver of Change (Perspective). Bhutan Observer, Volume VII, Issue 12, (p. 5), 06 March 2012.
• Thinley, D. Educating for GNH. Drukpa: Your Monthly Magazine, Volume 1, Issue 3 (pp. 70- 73), March 2011.
• Thinley, D. Imagining India: Ideas for the New Century – A Book Review. Bhutan Observer, Issue 34, Volume IV (p. 3), 28 August 2009.
• Thinley, D. Why Must Teachers Read? Bhutan Observer, Issue 35, Volume IV (p. 2), 4 September 2009.
• Thinley, D. Print Literacy and the Power of Books. Bhutan Observer, Issue 36, Volume IV (p. 2), 11 September 2009
• Thinley, D. Bhutan: Ways of Knowing: Some thoughts about what its publication means to academics. Bhutan Observer, Issue 37, Volume IV (p. 3), 18 September 2009.
• Thinley, D. Dzongkha: Our National Language: Some Considerations in relation to language change in a global context. Bhutan Observer, Issue 39, Volume IV (p. 2), 25 September 2009.
• Thinley, D. Self-discipline in Public Life: Gandhian Austerity and its Relevance Today. Bhutan Observer, Issue 40, Volume IV (p. 3), 2 October 2009.
• Thinley, D. A Marvelous Garland of Rare Gems. Bhutan Observer, Issue 41, Volume IV (p.2), 9 October 2009.
• Thinley, D. Moral Intelligence in a Democratic Polity. Bhutan Observer, Issue 42, Volume IV (p. 2), 16 October 2009.
• Thinley, D. A Visit to the Book Fair in Thimphu. Bhutan Observer, Issue 43, Volume IV (p. 2), 23 October 2009.

Conference Presentations/Invited Talks

Has presented papers and spoken at national and international conferences.

• Thinley, D. (2017). Teachers as Role Models: Cultural Promotion in the Education System, and Perspectives from SCE. Talk delivered at the policy seminar on ‘Promotion of Bhutanese Culture: Vision and Challenges’ organized by the Royal Institute for Governance and Strategic Studies (10 May 2017).
• Thinley, D. (2017). Buddhist Social Work in Bhutan – a Representative Case. Talk delivered at the 2nd International Academic Forum on Buddhist Social Work, Shukutoku University, Tokyo, Japan (22-23 March, 2017).
• Thinley, D. (2016) Education for Sustainable Wellbeing & Happiness. Guest Lecture organized by the Centre for International Cooperation & Zijlstra Centre for Public Control, Governance & Leadership, Vrije University, Amsterdam, 19 January 2016.
• Thinley, D. (2014). The Role of Social Science Research in Solving Contemporary Problems. Paper presented at the 3rd International Creative University Network (ICUN) Conference on ‘Creative Economy, Creative University and Creative Development’ organized by the Institute for GNH Studies (iGNHaS), RUB, International Creative University Network (ICUN), and Future Education, Groups & Organization Studies (FUEGOS), University of Marburg, Germany, Thimphu, 14-16 April 2014.
• Making Social Science Research Relevant to Real World Issues through Increased Partnerships (2014). Paper presented at the ‘International Conference on Status and Role of Social Science Research in Asia: Emerging Challenges’ and Policy Issues organized by the Indian Council of Social Science Research (ICSSR) and International Development Research Centre (IDRD), New Delhi (13-15 March 2014).
• Thinley, D. (2013). RUB’s Role in Bhutan’s Knowledge Society. Talk delivered at the ‘Seminar on Strengthening Support to Analysis and Research’ (for Bhutanese Parliamentarians) organized by UNDP Bhutan office and the Institute for GNH Studies, Royal University of Bhutan, 7 December 2013.
• Thinley, D. (2013). GNH in Higher Education. Talk delivered at the ‘GNH Facilitators Training Programme’ organized by GNH Centre, Thimphu, 20 September 2013.
• Thinley, D (2013). Democracy and Educational Initiatives in Bhutan. Talk delivered at ‘Democracy and Education’ seminar organized by Bhutan Centre for Media and Democracy, 2 August 2013, Thimphu.
• Thinley, D. (2013). Academic Institutions and Academic Discourse-Innovators: Institute for Gross National Happiness Studies (IGNHAS) and MA/PhD Programmes in the Royal University of Bhutan. Paper presented at the International Conference on ‘Organization and the New’. Philipps University, Marburg, Germany (28 February – 1 March 2013).
• Thinley, D. (2012). GNH Education in Bhutan: Policy and Practice. Paper presented at the First Akita University-Royal University of Bhutan Symposium in Akita University, Akita Prefecture, Japan, on 8 November 2012.
• Thinley, D. (2012). Considering the Role of ‘beneficence’ and ‘spaciousness’ in Teacher Education Discourse. Keynote Address delivered at the 32nd International Society for Teacher Education (ISfTE) Annual Seminar. Paro College of Education, Royal University of Bhutan (21-25 May 2012).
• Thinley, D. (2011). University-Industry Engagement: No Longer an Option. Talk delivered at the 9th University-Industry Council Symposium – ‘University-Industry Collaborations: Desirable or Avoidable?’, Jadavpur University, Kolkata (7 September 2011).
• Thinley, D. (2011). The School Literature Curriculum as an Effectual Site for Cultural Knowledge and Continuity. Paper presented at the 4th SSEASR International Conference on Mountains in the Religions of South and Southeast Asia: Place, Culture, and Power. Institute of Language and Culture Studies, Royal University of Bhutan, Thimphu (30 June – 3 July 2011).
• Thinley, D. (2011). Language of Teaching as a Pedagogical Catalyst for Classroom Wellness. Paper presented at the national seminar on ‘Educating for Gross National Happiness: Stories for Our Schools and Classrooms’, Paro College of Education, Royal University of Bhutan (13-14 May 2011).
• Thinley, Dorji (2009). Character Education and the Five Commonplaces of Curricular Experience. Paper presented at the International Conference on Character Education and Peace, Paro (22 June 2009).
• Thinley, D (2008). Secondary Students’ Response to Oral Literature in Their Mother Tongue: Insights and Observations from an Action Research Project in a Bhutanese School (July 2008). Conference Bulletin (p. 70). Paper presented at the ‘International Conference on Language Development, Language Revitalization and Multilingual Education in Ethnolinguistic Communities’, Bangkok (1-3 July 2008).
• Thinley, D. (2007). Spadework: Bhutan’s Preparations for Parliamentary Democracy. Paper presented at the first Symposium on Parliamentary Democracy organized by the Royal University of Bhutan, June 2007.
• Thinley, D. (2006). The Power of Bhutanese Folk Literature: The Role of English Translations of the Oral Literature of Bhutan in Articulating and Preserving Cultural Values. Paper presented at the 1st World Congress on the Power of Language: Theory, Practice, and Development, Bangkok, 22-25 May 2006.

Institutional Affiliations

• Global Representative, International Positive Education Network (2015).
• Member, Programme Advisory Committee, Royal Institute of Law, Bhutan (2014).
• Focal Person for Royal University of Bhutan, Sustainable Development Solutions Network (2014).
• Member, International Creative Universities Network (2013)
• Board Director, Bhutan Centre for Media and Democracy (since June 2013).
• Elected Member of Executive Board, International Society for Teacher Education (October 2012 – October 2015)
• Member of Editorial Board, Knowledge Cultures, Addleton Academic Publishers, New York (2013)
• Founding Managing Editor of The RUB Connection: A Biannual Newsletter of the Royal University of Bhutan (since February 2012)
• Founding Managing Editor, Bhutan Journal of Research and Development, Royal University of Bhutan (since July 2011 )
• Member, Dzongkha Expert Committee, Dzongkha Development Commission (since July 2012)
• Member, Council for Renewable Natural Resources Research of Bhutan (since 2011)
• Chair, English Subject Committee, Curriculum and Professional Support Division (CAPSD), Ministry of Education, Royal Government of Bhutan (since November 2009 )
• Member, Undergraduate Scholarship Steering Committee, Ministry of Education, Royal Government of Bhutan (since January 2013)
• Member Secretary, Research and Innovation Committee, Royal University of Bhutan (Since August 2011)
• Member of Academic Board, Royal University of Bhutan (since 2011)
• Member, Programmes and Quality Committee, Royal University of Bhutan (2011-2015)
• Member of Editorial Board, Rabsel: the CERD Education Journal (2009-2011)
• External Examiner to Sherubtse College, Royal University of Bhutan (since May 2011 – )
• External Examiner to Institute of Language and Culture Studies, Thimphu (2007- 2011)
• Member, Programmes and Quality Committee, Royal University of Bhutan (2004-2007)

Research Grants Secured for the University

Developed grant applications and secured the following grants for the Royal University of Bhutan during 2012-2014. These were aimed to build research capacity in the colleges.

• US$ 125,000 for project titled ‘Norwegian Kroner 230,000 for research project titled ‘Conditions for women’s inclusive and effective political participation in South Asia’ to be conducted in collaboration with the Norwegian Institute for Urban and Rural research (March 2013 – June 2015).
• AUS $ 257,056 for programme titled ‘Capacity Building for Leadership in Higher Education in Bhutan’ executed through an Australian Leadership Award grant in which I effectively collaborated as the lead focal person on the Bhutan side with Professor Tom Maxwell to secure the grant as well as implement the programme to its successful completion. The grant resulted in the training of 16 Royal University of Bhutan senior executive (including the Vice Chancellor) in higher education leadership and management for 3.1 weeks at the University of New England, NSW, Australia, followed by implementation of the action plans in the Fellows’ respective home institutions from May to October 2013.
• US$ 20,545 for training 15 RUB faculty staff in research and writing in environmental and natural resource economics. The grant was secured from South Asian Network for Development and Environmental Economics (August 2013).
• US$ 20,000 for research project titled ‘Participation of Women in Politics at the Local level in Bhutan’ (July 2012-July 2013) conducted in collaboration with the Norwegian Institute for Rural and Urban Research (NIBR) where I was the Lead Researcher. The project was supported by UN Women SARO, New Delhi.

Professional Service (Invited reviewer/editor)

• Peer Reviewer to UNESCO & Mahatma Gandhi Institute of Education for Peace and Sustainable Development (Delhi, India) for country report called The State of Education for Peace, Sustainable Development and Global Citizenship Report For Asia (April 2017).
• As a member of the review team, drafted the Report on the PGDE/B.Ed Recruitment Process for the Royal Civil Service Commission (2016).
• Reviewer of book manuscript, Autumn 2015, Springer Singapore.
• Book review called The Power of the Inner Journey: From a First Reading of ‘As I Am, So Is My Nation. Kuensel (19 February, 2015).
• Reviewer of journal article. Asia-Pacific Journal of Education (2015).
• Reviewer of book proposal, Spring 2014, Springer Singapore.
• Reviewer of journal article, Journal of International Society for Teacher Education.
• Editor of Bhutan Qualifications Framework: Point of Reference and Tertiary Education Qualifications in Bhutan. Bhutan Accreditation Council, Ministry of Education, Royal Government of Bhutan.
• Editor of Accreditation: Principles, Processes and Standards for the Tertiary Education Institutions in Bhutan (2012). Bhutan Accreditation Council, Ministry of Education, Royal Government of Bhutan
• Editor of Introductory Economics: A Course Book for Class IX (2012). Department of Curriculum Research and Development, Ministry of Education, RGoB
• Editor of SCIENCE: Curriculum Framework PP-XII, (2010). Department of Curriculum Research and Development, Ministry of Education, RGoB.
• Editor of T eaching Mathematics: T eachers’ Guide for Class PP . Curriculum and Professional Support Division, Ministry of Education, RGoB (2010)
• Editor of Towards Inclusive, Child Friendly Schools in Bhutan: Developing Good Practice Within Teaching and Learning (2007). Ministry of Education, Bhutan.
• Editor of Bhutan Civics: Course Book for Classes XI-XII (2007).Curriculum and Professional Support Division, Department of School Education, Ministry of Education.
• Editor of Bhutan Civics: Teachers’ Guide for Classes XI-XII, 2007). Curriculum and Professional Support Division, Department of School Education, Ministry of Education.
• Editor of Purpose of School Education in Bhutan: A Curriculum Handbook for Schools (2003). Curriculum and Professional Support Division, Ministry of Education.
• Founding Editor of Rig-Gter: Academic Journal of NIE Samtse (from 2002 to 2006).
• Editor of BCSE English: Reading & Literature Class X (2005). Curriculum and Professional Support Division, Department of School Education, Ministry of Education, RGoB.
• Editor of BCSE English: Reading & Literature Class IX, 2005). Curriculum and Professional Support Division, Department of School Education, Ministry of Education, RGoB.

Professional Services (teaching)

As a teacher educator, has run a number of workshops on research, programme development, teaching methodologies, guidance and counseling, values education, and educational instruction for school teachers and university lecturers.

• Resource person for ‘Creative Teaching-Learning’ organized by the Institute for Excellence and Development for Bhutanese school teachers at Le Meridien Paro (19-20 October and 8- 9 November 2017).
• Resource person for ‘Orientation of New Staff to the Royal University of Bhutan’ (24 February 2014) and ran a session on ‘Managing Early Career’.
• Resource person for ‘Orientation of New Staff to the Royal University of Bhutan’ (22 November 2012) and ran a session on ‘Staying Intellectually Engaged: Life of a University Teacher’ and ‘Teaching to Promote Authentic Learning’.
• Gave a talk on “Choosing a Research Topic, Writing, and Research”, College of Natural Resources, Lobesa (25 October 2012).
• Gave a talk on ‘Ethics of Editing’ at the Writing and Editing Workshop organized by the Institute of Management Studies, Thimphu (19 June 2012).
• Gave a seminar talk on ‘Managing Your Writing Project: Using Endnote and Styles’ for the staff of Paro College of Education, Royal University of Bhutan (28 October 2010).
• Gave a seminar talk on ‘Classroom Language for Effective Learning: Importance, Elements, Context, Issues’ for the management and staff of Yoezerling Higher Secondary School, Paro (6 August 2010).
• Resource person for Workshop on Teaching Skills organized by Ta-yang Educational Consultancy for school teachers (Paro, 22 December, 2009) and ran a session on ‘Active Learning: Pedagogical Beliefs and Processes’ as part of
• Gave a talk on ‘Principles of University Teaching: Understanding Learning Styles’ & ‘Facilitating Active Learning’, session conducted for staff of Royal Institute of Health Sciences’ (26 October 2009).
• Gave a talk on “Module Evaluation Survey Form and Data Analysis using SPSS” for staff of Paro College of Education (8 October 2009).
• Gave a talk on ‘CULT: Centre for University Learning and Teaching’ given to staff of Institute for Language and Culture Studies (ILCS), Thimphu, (6 June 2009).
• Gave a talk on Managing Learning: 4 Factors to Consider, Kuenga Higher Secondary School, Paro (March 2009).
• Gave a talk on ‘Integrating Productive Pedagogies for Making Learning Intellectually Challenging’ for the staff of Paro College of Education, 18 March 2009.
• Gave a talk on ‘Teaching to Different Learning Styles; Facilitating Active Learning; Personal and Professional Development’, session ran as part of ‘Orientation of New Staff to the Royal University of Bhutan’ (February 2009).
• Gave a talk on Course Work Assessment, Institute of Language and Culture Studies, Thimphu (April 2008).
• Ran a 2-hour session on ‘Teaching to Different Learning Styles; Facilitating Active Learning’, session ran as part of ‘Orientation of New Staff to the Royal University of Bhutan’ (January 2008).
• Resource Person for Workshop on Implementation of Standards for English (Phuntsholing, 2003).
• Resource Person for Workshop on Career Education and Counselling (Phuntsholing, 2002).
• Resource Person for Workshop on English Language Teaching (Punakha, 2001).
• Resource Person for Workshop Guidance and Counselling (Wangdue, 1999).
• Resource Person for Workshop on Values Education organized the Ministry of Health & Education for School Principals and District Education Officers (Thimphu, 1999).
• Resource Person for Workshop on Values Education organized by the Ministry of Health & Education for School Principals and District Education Officers (Punakha, 1999).

Expert Service (others)

Has provided knowledge based services whenever possible.

• As a member of panel appointed by the Royal University of Bhutan, validated the MA English Programme of Sherubtse College, May 2017.
• Expert service to the Royal Civil Service Commission for the ‘Preliminary Exams’ of 2011.
• Expert service to the Royal Civil Service Commission for the ‘Preliminary Exams’ of 2010.
• As a member of panel appointed by the Royal University of Bhutan, validated the BA Language and Literature (Honours) and Diploma in Language and Literature programmes of the Institute for Language and Culture Studies (ILCS) Royal University of Bhutan, November 2010.
• Expert service to the Royal Civil Service Commission for the Civil Service Common Examinations of 2009 for Technical Graduates (6 November 2009) , General Graduates (13 November 2009), and Dzongkha Graduates (7 November 2009).
• As a member of the panel appointed by the Royal University of Bhutan, carried out a ‘Resource Check’ of the Royal Thimphu College, 2009.
• As a member of panel appointed by the Royal University of Bhutan, validated the BA English (Honours) programme of Sherubtse College, Royal University of Bhutan, November 2006.
• As a member of panel appointed by the Royal University of Bhutan, validated the Bachelor of Engineering (Civil) Programme of the College of Science and Technology, Royal University of Bhutan, November 2005.

Script Writing & Narration

• Narrator for Video Documentary on Bhutan for the 31st International Society for Teacher Education (ISfTE) Seminar held in Norway (April 2011).
• Writer and narrator for Barriers to Teaching and Learning & Good Practices for Addressing the Barriers: An ICT Video Documentation Project (2007). Ministry of Education, Thimphu.
• Story and script writer for Thank You Sir, a national award winning film produced by TG Media and Infotainment, Thimphu (2013).

 Scholarships/Awards

• Australian Leadership Award Fellow, University of New England (Australia), 2013
• PhD with cum laude for a doctoral thesis of “exceptional quality”, University of New England, NSW (Australia), 2011
• International Travel Scholarship for Doctoral Student, University of New England (Australia), 2009
• Teaching Practice Award, National Institute of Education, Samtse (Bhutan), 1997
• Professor A.G. Verghese Award for English, St. Anthony’s College (India), 1992

Academic and Research Leadership Training (Selected)

• University Governance in a Changing Environment. Vrije University, Amsterdam (January 2016).
• The Global Wellbeing Lab 2.0 – Transforming Society and the Economy (3-4 February 2015 Berlin, Germany and 11 – 16 May 2015, Paro Bhutan) organized by the Global Leadership Academy, Germany, Presencing Institute, USA, and GNH Centre, Bhutan.
• Capacity Building for Leadership in Higher Education, University of New England, Armidale, Australia, May-September, 2013).
• PhD Supervisors’ Training Programme: Research Project Management; R & D Management; Knowledge Transfer and Commercialization of Research; Maximizing Research Career; Leadership Skills and Workplace Communication; and Entrepreneurship). Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Australia, 2011.
• Intellectual property (IP) Management and Commercialization of IP Assets, World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO), Singapore, July 2012.Contact Details : Phone : 00975 8 271487/271478/272263 Mobile : 00975 17649608 Email :dthinley6789@gmail.com / dthinley.pce@rub.edu.btCurrent Job: President, Paro College of Education, Royal University of Bhutan,  Paro, Bhutan.

  Education : PhD in education (Australia, 2000); Advanced Diploma in Counseling & Special Education (Canada, 2000); PGCE (NIE Samtse, 1997); MA in English studies (India, 1994); BA with Honours in English studies (India, 9992).

  Employment History and Positions Held

  • President, Paro College of Education, RUB (since August 2018)
  • President, Samtse College of Education, RUB (2015-2018)
  • Director of Research and External Relations (2011-2015)
  • Lecturer and Dean (Academic), Paro College of Education (March 2007- June 2011)
  • Lecturer and Programme Leader (Secondary Education Studies), Samtse College of
  • Education (August 1997 – January 2007)

  Teaching and Research Supervision

  Developed courses, taught undergraduate and postgraduate (both pre-service and in-service) students, and supervised research dissertations to completion since 1997.

  • Principal Supervisor (PhD research), Asian Research Institute for International Social Work, Shukutoku University, Japan, since July 2017.
  • Visiting Lecturer at the Department of Development Studies, Palacky University, Olomouc, the Czech Republic (in 2015)
  • Co-Supervisor (PhD research), Oulu University, Finland, during 2013.
  • Supervisor (Masters research), Paro College of Education (2007 – 2013)
  • He has taught Masters, postgraduate, and undergraduate courses since1997, including, Qualitative Research, Research Dissertation, Curriculum Theory, Principles of Learning, Introduction to Educational Research, Curriculum Studies, Teaching Skills, Teaching Strategies, Understanding the Learner, Learning Process, Counseling Processes and Skills , English Drama and Poetry, Prose Fiction and Non-Fiction, Bhutanese Education System, Sound and Speech, and Academic Writing.

  Policy and Programme Development

  Developed policies, programmes and procedures for the enhancement of teaching, research and professional development in the Royal University of Bhutan.

  • Led the development of a programme called English for Effective Communication Skills for Teachers as part of a core group for EECST in March-April 2017.
  • Initiated and led the development of Educational Innovation and Practice: A Biannual Journal of Samtse College of Education (first published in 2016), which was first launched as Rig- gTer: Academic Journal of Samtse College of Education in 2002 (whose development he initiated and led).
  • Initiated and led the development of SHES-RIG Pages: a Biannual Newsletter of Samtse College of Education in 2016.
  • Led the designing, writing and editing of Bhutan Education Blueprint 2014-2024: Rethinking Education as part of the drafting team for the BEB project in October 2014.
  • Initiated and led the establishment and operationalization of the Institute for Gross National Happiness (GNH) Studies (iGNHaS) as an independent, inclusive, interdisciplinary, secular, and non-partisan research institute and think-tank in the Royal University of Bhutan during in 2013.
  • Developed and submitted a proposal for setting up the Bhutan Research and Innovation Council (BRIC) to the Gross National Happiness Commission, Royal Government of Bhutan, in October 2012. The proposal recommended setting up a national research foundation with funds to be made accessible to researchers and innovators in the country. The proposal was received positively by GNHC. As a result, GNHC has indicated that for the short term, a national research fund will be set up that will enable the growth of a vibrant environment for research and innovation in the country.
  • Initiated and developed ‘Zhib-Tshol: RUB Research Policy Guidelines’ during 2012-2013.
  • Initiated and successfully launched an international peer-reviewed research journal called ‘Bhutan Journal of Research and Development’ with journal policy, editorial policy, manuscript guidelines, and standard blind review processes fully set up in 2012.
  • Initiated and developed the RUB Higher Degrees Research Framework during 2012-2013.
  • Established formal linkages between several external universities/other organizations and the Royal University of Bhutan during 2012-2013.
  • Initiated and set up policies and procedures for instituting the RUB Annual Faculty Research Meet (FRM) as a biannual research event for RUB and international researchers and scholars in 2011. ‘FRM’ is now fully institutionalized.
  • Initiated the development and launch of ‘The RUB Connection: A Biannual Newsletter of the Royal University of Bhutan’, RUB’s first newsletter in 2012.
  • Initiated the development of standard policies and procedures for RUB’s Annual University Research Grant that helped to streamline the grant awarding processes and to ensure quality of research in the university.
  • As part of the Working Group for establishing Bhutan Council for School Examination and Assessment (BCSEA), developed the policies, strategic and operational plans for BCSEA, which was submitted to the Ministry of Education in 2010. BCSEA was established as an autonomous national school examination and assessment agency in 2011 replacing the erstwhile Bhutan Board of Examination Division (BBED).
  • Developed course handbooks for the Bachelor of Education (distance) programme for Samtse College of Education based on the principles of self-instructional design and drawing upon international best practice (e.g. Indira Gandhi National Open University, Delhi, and Open University, UK).
  • Initiated and developed the English language and literature courses for the Bachelor of Education (B.Ed) programme for Paro College of Education in 2009.
  • Initiated, developed and implemented a system of student evaluation of course and staff performance based on international best practice for Paro College of Education in 2009.
  • Initiated and developed a major portion of the English language and literature courses for the Bachelor of Education (B.Ed) programme for National Institute of Education, Samtse in 1997.
  • To promote research in Samtse College of Education, set up a Research Committee in 2002 for the first time in that college and developed research guidelines.
  • Initiated and successfully launched ‘Rig-Gter: Academic Journal of Samtse College of Education’ in 2002, which is now a research journal.

  Publications

  Books

  • Thinley, D. et al (2014). Improving Women’s Participation in Local Governance: An Explorative Study of Women’s Leadership Journeys in Eight Districts of Bhutan. Thimphu: Institute for GNH Studies, Royal University of Bhutan (Research project supported by UN Women SARO, New Delhi).
  • Thinley, D. (2005). The Boneless Tongue: Figurative proverbs, wise sayings and incidental remarks that articulate a people’s way of life, cultural experience and accumulated wisdom. KMT Press: Phuntsholing (Bhutan).

  Book chapters

  • Thinley, D. (2016). Foreword to ‘Education in Bhutan: From the Buddhist monastery to Gross National Happiness Education’ (pp. 4-9). Singapore: Springer Press.
  • Thinley, D. (2015). Cultural Continuity and School Education in Bhutan: Current Initiatives, Challenges and Opportunities in ‘The Himalayan Bridge’ (pp. 229-241). New Delhi: KW Publishers.
  • Thinley, D (2013). Those Eccentric Teachers in ‘The Centenarian: 100 Years of Educating the Nation’ (pp. 18-21). Thimphu: Ministry of Education, Royal Government of Bhutan.
  • Thinley, D. (2008). No Longer the ploughman’s song: A Layman’s Description of Aspects of Change in a Bhutanese Village, ‘Bhutan: Ways of Knowing’, Mason, R and Rennie, F (Eds.). Information Age Publishing: Conn. USA.
  • Thinley, D. (2008). The Power of Bhutanese Folk Literature, Bhutan: Ways of Knowing, Mason, R. and Rennie, F (Eds.). Information Age Publishing: Conn. USA.
  • Thinley, D. (2007). Cultural Maintenance and Promotion: The Print Media’s Role in Providing Space for Knowledge and Discourse, Media and Public Culture: Proceedings of the Second International Seminar on Bhutan Studies (pp. 70-108), The Centre for Bhutan Studies, Thimphu.

  Journal articles

  • Thinley, D. (2016). A Blueprint for Educational Development: A Policy Highlight. Educational Innovation and Practice: A biannual journal of Samtse College of Education, Volume 01, Number 01, pp. 67-70).
  • Thinley, D. (2014). Cultural Continuity and School Education in Bhutan: Current Initiatives, Challenges and Opportunities. Indian Journal of Research, Volume 2, No. 2, pp. 95-102.
  • Thinley, D. & Maxwell, T. W (2013). Pedagogies for Stimulating Students’ Responses to First Language Oral Literature: An Action Research Project in a Secondary School in Bhutan. Journal of International Society for Teacher Education, Volume 17, No. 2, pp. 39-48.
  • Thinley, D. & Maxwell, T. W. (2013). The Role of English in Culture Preservation in Bhutan. Journal of Bhutan Studies, Volume 28, Summer 2013, pp. 1-29.
  • Ahonen, P., Thinley, D. & Korkeamäki, R. (2013). Bhutanese Teachers’ Perceptions about Gross National Happiness in Education for Sustainable Development. Bhutan Journal of Research and Development, Volume 2, No. 2, pp. 67-79.
  • Thinley, D. et al (2013). Researching Women’s Participation in Local Government in Bhutan: A description of the methodology used in a recent study. Bhutan Journal of Research and Development, Volume 2, No. 1, pp. 75-86.
  • Thinley, D. & Biddha, S. (2010). Building Students’ Oral Fluency: Perspectives on the Use of Spoken English in Bhutanese Classrooms. Rabsel: the CERD Education Journal, Volume XIV, pp.11-34.
  • Thinley, D. (2009). Document Research: A Description of Procedures for Gathering and Analysing Mute Evidence. Rabsel: the CERD Education Journal, Volume XIII, pp. 1-10.
  • Thinley, D. (2004). Portrait of an Institute: National Institute of Education, Samtse. Rabsel: the CERD Education Journal, Volume IV, pp. 75- 89.
  • Thinley, D. (2002). From Noisy Proclamations to Providing Experiences: Sketches from a Teacher’s Classroom Practice. Rabsel: the CERD Education Journal, Volume 1, pp. 31-57.

  Technical Reports/Proposals

  • Dorji Thinley et al. Report on review of Postgraduate Diploma in English. Sherubste College (March 2016).
  • Dorji Thinley et al (March 2016). Validation report on MA English programme. Sherubtse College.
  • Kezang Deki, Dr Dorji Thinley, Wangchuk Rabten, Phuntsho Lhamo, N.B. Raika, Dhendup Tshering and Sonam Dorji (2016). Report On The PGDE/B.Ed. Recruitment Process. Submitted to the Royal Civil Service Commission, Thimphu.
  • Sangya Dorji, Dasho Sangay Wangchuk, Dr Dorji Thinley, Dasho Tshering Wangchuk, and Thinley Namgyel (2014). The Programme Advisory Committee Report. Submitted to the President of the Royal Institute of Law.
  • Dorji Thinley (October 2012). Bhutan Research and Innovation Council (BRIC): A Concept Note. A proposal presented to the Gross National Happiness Commission, Royal Government of Bhutan on 26 October 2012, with the recommendation for setting up a national research foundation with funds made accessible to researchers and innovators in the country.
  • Dorji Thinley, Kinley Dorji, Dawa Lhamo and Karma Tshering (2012). Validation Panel Report on Bachelor of Arts (English) Programme of Sherubtse College ), Kanglung), Royal University of Bhutan, September 2012.
  • Dasho Sangay Dorji, Dr Jagar Dorji, Dorji Thinley, Karma Tshering (Novemebr 2011). Validation Panel Report on Bachelor of Language and Literature and Diploma in Language and Literature, Institute of Language and Culture Studies, Royal University of Bhutan, November 2012.
  • Phub Rinchen, Sangay Tenzin, Dorji Thinley, Tshering Dolkar, Wangchuk Namgyal, Karma Zam and Leela D. Sharma (October 2010). Operationalization of Bhutan Council for School Examination and Assessment (BCSEA): A Proposal, submitted to the Ministry of Education, Royal Government of Bhutan.
  • Dorji Thinley (May 2008). Report on Programmes offered at Riverside School, Ahmedabad, Gujarat (India), submitted to Royal Education Council, Thimphu, Bhutan.
  • Dorji Thinley, T.P. Wangdi, C. Dorji, and K.C. Jose (2006). Validation Panel Report on BA English (Honours) Programme of Sherubtse College, Royal University of Bhutan, 26 November 2006.
  • Jagar Dorji, K.B. Wakhley, Karma Tshering, and Dorji Thinley (2005) Validation Panel Report on Bachelor of Engineering (Civil) Programme of College of Science and Technology, Royal University of Bhutan, November 2005.

  Publications in Print Media

  • Thinley, D. The Peach Motif (Perspective), Bhutan Observer, Volume VIII, Issue 5 (p. 9), 01 February 2013.
  • Thinley, D. Party Symbology (Perspective), Bhutan Observer, Volume VIII, Issue 4 (p. 9), 27 January 2013.
  • Thinley, D. The Power of Naming (Perspective), Bhutan Observer, Volume VIII, Issue 1 (p. 9), 4 January 2013.
  • Thinley, D. The Power of Work (Perspective). Bhutan Observer, Volume VII, Issue 51 (p. 9), 28 December 2012.
  • Thinley, D. Responsibility with Recognition (Perspective). Bhutan Observer, Volume VII, Issue 50 (p. 9), 21 December 2012.
  • Thinley, D. Filling the Knowledge Gap (Perspective). The RUB Connection: A Biannual Newsletter of the Royal University of Bhutan. Volume 1, Number 1, July 2012.
  • Thinley, D. Five Habits of the Heart (Perspective). Bhutan Observer, Issue 48, Volume VII (p. 9), 7 December 2012.
  • Thinley, D. The Abstract in a Democracy (Perspective). Bhutan Observer, Issue 47, Volume VII (p. 9), 30 November 2012.
  • Thinley, D. Higher Education Should be a Driver of Change (Perspective). Bhutan Observer, Volume VII, Issue 12, (p. 5), 06 March 2012.
  • Thinley, D. Educating for GNH. Drukpa: Your Monthly Magazine, Volume 1, Issue 3 (pp. 70- 73), March 2011.
  • Thinley, D. Imagining India: Ideas for the New Century – A Book Review. Bhutan Observer, Issue 34, Volume IV (p. 3), 28 August 2009.
  • Thinley, D. Why Must Teachers Read? Bhutan Observer, Issue 35, Volume IV (p. 2), 4 September 2009.
  • Thinley, D. Print Literacy and the Power of Books. Bhutan Observer, Issue 36, Volume IV (p. 2), 11 September 2009
  • Thinley, D. Bhutan: Ways of Knowing: Some thoughts about what its publication means to academics. Bhutan Observer, Issue 37, Volume IV (p. 3), 18 September 2009.
  • Thinley, D. Dzongkha: Our National Language: Some Considerations in relation to language change in a global context. Bhutan Observer, Issue 39, Volume IV (p. 2), 25 September 2009.
  • Thinley, D. Self-discipline in Public Life: Gandhian Austerity and its Relevance Today. Bhutan Observer, Issue 40, Volume IV (p. 3), 2 October 2009.
  • Thinley, D. A Marvelous Garland of Rare Gems. Bhutan Observer, Issue 41, Volume IV (p.2), 9 October 2009.
  • Thinley, D. Moral Intelligence in a Democratic Polity. Bhutan Observer, Issue 42, Volume IV (p. 2), 16 October 2009.
  • Thinley, D. A Visit to the Book Fair in Thimphu. Bhutan Observer, Issue 43, Volume IV (p. 2), 23 October 2009.

  Conference Presentations/Invited Talks

  Has presented papers and spoken at national and international conferences.

  • Thinley, D. (2017). Teachers as Role Models: Cultural Promotion in the Education System, and Perspectives from SCE. Talk delivered at the policy seminar on ‘Promotion of Bhutanese Culture: Vision and Challenges’ organized by the Royal Institute for Governance and Strategic Studies (10 May 2017).
  • Thinley, D. (2017). Buddhist Social Work in Bhutan – a Representative Case. Talk delivered at the 2nd International Academic Forum on Buddhist Social Work, Shukutoku University, Tokyo, Japan (22-23 March, 2017).
  • Thinley, D. (2016) Education for Sustainable Wellbeing & Happiness. Guest Lecture organized by the Centre for International Cooperation & Zijlstra Centre for Public Control, Governance & Leadership, Vrije University, Amsterdam, 19 January 2016.
  • Thinley, D. (2014). The Role of Social Science Research in Solving Contemporary Problems. Paper presented at the 3rd International Creative University Network (ICUN) Conference on ‘Creative Economy, Creative University and Creative Development’ organized by the Institute for GNH Studies (iGNHaS), RUB, International Creative University Network (ICUN), and Future Education, Groups & Organization Studies (FUEGOS), University of Marburg, Germany, Thimphu, 14-16 April 2014.
  • Making Social Science Research Relevant to Real World Issues through Increased Partnerships (2014). Paper presented at the ‘International Conference on Status and Role of Social Science Research in Asia: Emerging Challenges’ and Policy Issues organized by the Indian Council of Social Science Research (ICSSR) and International Development Research Centre (IDRD), New Delhi (13-15 March 2014).
  • Thinley, D. (2013). RUB’s Role in Bhutan’s Knowledge Society. Talk delivered at the ‘Seminar on Strengthening Support to Analysis and Research’ (for Bhutanese Parliamentarians) organized by UNDP Bhutan office and the Institute for GNH Studies, Royal University of Bhutan, 7 December 2013.
  • Thinley, D. (2013). GNH in Higher Education. Talk delivered at the ‘GNH Facilitators Training Programme’ organized by GNH Centre, Thimphu, 20 September 2013.
  • Thinley, D (2013). Democracy and Educational Initiatives in Bhutan. Talk delivered at ‘Democracy and Education’ seminar organized by Bhutan Centre for Media and Democracy, 2 August 2013, Thimphu.
  • Thinley, D. (2013). Academic Institutions and Academic Discourse-Innovators: Institute for Gross National Happiness Studies (IGNHAS) and MA/PhD Programmes in the Royal University of Bhutan. Paper presented at the International Conference on ‘Organization and the New’. Philipps University, Marburg, Germany (28 February – 1 March 2013).
  • Thinley, D. (2012). GNH Education in Bhutan: Policy and Practice. Paper presented at the First Akita University-Royal University of Bhutan Symposium in Akita University, Akita Prefecture, Japan, on 8 November 2012.
  • Thinley, D. (2012). Considering the Role of ‘beneficence’ and ‘spaciousness’ in Teacher Education Discourse. Keynote Address delivered at the 32nd International Society for Teacher Education (ISfTE) Annual Seminar. Paro College of Education, Royal University of Bhutan (21-25 May 2012).
  • Thinley, D. (2011). University-Industry Engagement: No Longer an Option. Talk delivered at the 9th University-Industry Council Symposium – ‘University-Industry Collaborations: Desirable or Avoidable?’, Jadavpur University, Kolkata (7 September 2011).
  • Thinley, D. (2011). The School Literature Curriculum as an Effectual Site for Cultural Knowledge and Continuity. Paper presented at the 4th SSEASR International Conference on Mountains in the Religions of South and Southeast Asia: Place, Culture, and Power. Institute of Language and Culture Studies, Royal University of Bhutan, Thimphu (30 June – 3 July 2011).
  • Thinley, D. (2011). Language of Teaching as a Pedagogical Catalyst for Classroom Wellness. Paper presented at the national seminar on ‘Educating for Gross National Happiness: Stories for Our Schools and Classrooms’, Paro College of Education, Royal University of Bhutan (13-14 May 2011).
  • Thinley, Dorji (2009). Character Education and the Five Commonplaces of Curricular Experience. Paper presented at the International Conference on Character Education and Peace, Paro (22 June 2009).
  • Thinley, D (2008). Secondary Students’ Response to Oral Literature in Their Mother Tongue: Insights and Observations from an Action Research Project in a Bhutanese School (July 2008). Conference Bulletin (p. 70). Paper presented at the ‘International Conference on Language Development, Language Revitalization and Multilingual Education in Ethnolinguistic Communities’, Bangkok (1-3 July 2008).
  • Thinley, D. (2007). Spadework: Bhutan’s Preparations for Parliamentary Democracy. Paper presented at the first Symposium on Parliamentary Democracy organized by the Royal University of Bhutan, June 2007.
  • Thinley, D. (2006). The Power of Bhutanese Folk Literature: The Role of English Translations of the Oral Literature of Bhutan in Articulating and Preserving Cultural Values. Paper presented at the 1st World Congress on the Power of Language: Theory, Practice, and Development, Bangkok, 22-25 May 2006.

  Institutional Affiliations

  • Global Representative, International Positive Education Network (2015).
  • Member, Programme Advisory Committee, Royal Institute of Law, Bhutan (2014).
  • Focal Person for Royal University of Bhutan, Sustainable Development Solutions Network (2014).
  • Member, International Creative Universities Network (2013)
  • Board Director, Bhutan Centre for Media and Democracy (since June 2013).
  • Elected Member of Executive Board, International Society for Teacher Education (October 2012 – October 2015)
  • Member of Editorial Board, Knowledge Cultures, Addleton Academic Publishers, New York (2013)
  • Founding Managing Editor of The RUB Connection: A Biannual Newsletter of the Royal University of Bhutan (since February 2012)
  • Founding Managing Editor, Bhutan Journal of Research and Development, Royal University of Bhutan (since July 2011 )
  • Member, Dzongkha Expert Committee, Dzongkha Development Commission (since July 2012)
  • Member, Council for Renewable Natural Resources Research of Bhutan (since 2011)
  • Chair, English Subject Committee, Curriculum and Professional Support Division (CAPSD), Ministry of Education, Royal Government of Bhutan (since November 2009 )
  • Member, Undergraduate Scholarship Steering Committee, Ministry of Education, Royal Government of Bhutan (since January 2013)
  • Member Secretary, Research and Innovation Committee, Royal University of Bhutan (Since August 2011)
  • Member of Academic Board, Royal University of Bhutan (since 2011)
  • Member, Programmes and Quality Committee, Royal University of Bhutan (2011-2015)
  • Member of Editorial Board, Rabsel: the CERD Education Journal (2009-2011)
  • External Examiner to Sherubtse College, Royal University of Bhutan (since May 2011 – )
  • External Examiner to Institute of Language and Culture Studies, Thimphu (2007- 2011)
  • Member, Programmes and Quality Committee, Royal University of Bhutan (2004-2007)

  Research Grants Secured for the University

  Developed grant applications and secured the following grants for the Royal University of Bhutan during 2012-2014. These were aimed to build research capacity in the colleges.

  • US$ 125,000 for project titled ‘Norwegian Kroner 230,000 for research project titled ‘Conditions for women’s inclusive and effective political participation in South Asia’ to be conducted in collaboration with the Norwegian Institute for Urban and Rural research (March 2013 – June 2015).
  • AUS $ 257,056 for programme titled ‘Capacity Building for Leadership in Higher Education in Bhutan’ executed through an Australian Leadership Award grant in which I effectively collaborated as the lead focal person on the Bhutan side with Professor Tom Maxwell to secure the grant as well as implement the programme to its successful completion. The grant resulted in the training of 16 Royal University of Bhutan senior executive (including the Vice Chancellor) in higher education leadership and management for 3.1 weeks at the University of New England, NSW, Australia, followed by implementation of the action plans in the Fellows’ respective home institutions from May to October 2013.
  • US$ 20,545 for training 15 RUB faculty staff in research and writing in environmental and natural resource economics. The grant was secured from South Asian Network for Development and Environmental Economics (August 2013).
  • US$ 20,000 for research project titled ‘Participation of Women in Politics at the Local level in Bhutan’ (July 2012-July 2013) conducted in collaboration with the Norwegian Institute for Rural and Urban Research (NIBR) where I was the Lead Researcher. The project was supported by UN Women SARO, New Delhi.

  Professional Service (Invited reviewer/editor)

  • Peer Reviewer to UNESCO & Mahatma Gandhi Institute of Education for Peace and Sustainable Development (Delhi, India) for country report called The State of Education for Peace, Sustainable Development and Global Citizenship Report For Asia (April 2017).
  • As a member of the review team, drafted the Report on the PGDE/B.Ed Recruitment Process for the Royal Civil Service Commission (2016).
  • Reviewer of book manuscript, Autumn 2015, Springer Singapore.
  • Book review called The Power of the Inner Journey: From a First Reading of ‘As I Am, So Is My Nation. Kuensel (19 February, 2015).
  • Reviewer of journal article. Asia-Pacific Journal of Education (2015).
  • Reviewer of book proposal, Spring 2014, Springer Singapore.
  • Reviewer of journal article, Journal of International Society for Teacher Education.
  • Editor of Bhutan Qualifications Framework: Point of Reference and Tertiary Education Qualifications in Bhutan. Bhutan Accreditation Council, Ministry of Education, Royal Government of Bhutan.
  • Editor of Accreditation: Principles, Processes and Standards for the Tertiary Education Institutions in Bhutan (2012). Bhutan Accreditation Council, Ministry of Education, Royal Government of Bhutan
  • Editor of Introductory Economics: A Course Book for Class IX (2012). Department of Curriculum Research and Development, Ministry of Education, RGoB
  • Editor of SCIENCE: Curriculum Framework PP-XII, (2010). Department of Curriculum Research and Development, Ministry of Education, RGoB.
  • Editor of T eaching Mathematics: T eachers’ Guide for Class PP . Curriculum and Professional Support Division, Ministry of Education, RGoB (2010)
  • Editor of Towards Inclusive, Child Friendly Schools in Bhutan: Developing Good Practice Within Teaching and Learning (2007). Ministry of Education, Bhutan.
  • Editor of Bhutan Civics: Course Book for Classes XI-XII (2007).Curriculum and Professional Support Division, Department of School Education, Ministry of Education.
  • Editor of Bhutan Civics: Teachers’ Guide for Classes XI-XII, 2007). Curriculum and Professional Support Division, Department of School Education, Ministry of Education.
  • Editor of Purpose of School Education in Bhutan: A Curriculum Handbook for Schools (2003). Curriculum and Professional Support Division, Ministry of Education.
  • Founding Editor of Rig-Gter: Academic Journal of NIE Samtse (from 2002 to 2006).
  • Editor of BCSE English: Reading & Literature Class X (2005). Curriculum and Professional Support Division, Department of School Education, Ministry of Education, RGoB.
  • Editor of BCSE English: Reading & Literature Class IX, 2005). Curriculum and Professional Support Division, Department of School Education, Ministry of Education, RGoB.

  Professional Services (teaching)

  As a teacher educator, has run a number of workshops on research, programme development, teaching methodologies, guidance and counseling, values education, and educational instruction for school teachers and university lecturers.

  • Resource person for ‘Creative Teaching-Learning’ organized by the Institute for Excellence and Development for Bhutanese school teachers at Le Meridien Paro (19-20 October and 8- 9 November 2017).
  • Resource person for ‘Orientation of New Staff to the Royal University of Bhutan’ (24 February 2014) and ran a session on ‘Managing Early Career’.
  • Resource person for ‘Orientation of New Staff to the Royal University of Bhutan’ (22 November 2012) and ran a session on ‘Staying Intellectually Engaged: Life of a University Teacher’ and ‘Teaching to Promote Authentic Learning’.
  • Gave a talk on “Choosing a Research Topic, Writing, and Research”, College of Natural Resources, Lobesa (25 October 2012).
  • Gave a talk on ‘Ethics of Editing’ at the Writing and Editing Workshop organized by the Institute of Management Studies, Thimphu (19 June 2012).
  • Gave a seminar talk on ‘Managing Your Writing Project: Using Endnote and Styles’ for the staff of Paro College of Education, Royal University of Bhutan (28 October 2010).
  • Gave a seminar talk on ‘Classroom Language for Effective Learning: Importance, Elements, Context, Issues’ for the management and staff of Yoezerling Higher Secondary School, Paro (6 August 2010).
  • Resource person for Workshop on Teaching Skills organized by Ta-yang Educational Consultancy for school teachers (Paro, 22 December, 2009) and ran a session on ‘Active Learning: Pedagogical Beliefs and Processes’ as part of
  • Gave a talk on ‘Principles of University Teaching: Understanding Learning Styles’ & ‘Facilitating Active Learning’, session conducted for staff of Royal Institute of Health Sciences’ (26 October 2009).
  • Gave a talk on “Module Evaluation Survey Form and Data Analysis using SPSS” for staff of Paro College of Education (8 October 2009).
  • Gave a talk on ‘CULT: Centre for University Learning and Teaching’ given to staff of Institute for Language and Culture Studies (ILCS), Thimphu, (6 June 2009).
  • Gave a talk on Managing Learning: 4 Factors to Consider, Kuenga Higher Secondary School, Paro (March 2009).
  • Gave a talk on ‘Integrating Productive Pedagogies for Making Learning Intellectually Challenging’ for the staff of Paro College of Education, 18 March 2009.
  • Gave a talk on ‘Teaching to Different Learning Styles; Facilitating Active Learning; Personal and Professional Development’, session ran as part of ‘Orientation of New Staff to the Royal University of Bhutan’ (February 2009).
  • Gave a talk on Course Work Assessment, Institute of Language and Culture Studies, Thimphu (April 2008).
  • Ran a 2-hour session on ‘Teaching to Different Learning Styles; Facilitating Active Learning’, session ran as part of ‘Orientation of New Staff to the Royal University of Bhutan’ (January 2008).
  • Resource Person for Workshop on Implementation of Standards for English (Phuntsholing, 2003).
  • Resource Person for Workshop on Career Education and Counselling (Phuntsholing, 2002).
  • Resource Person for Workshop on English Language Teaching (Punakha, 2001).
  • Resource Person for Workshop Guidance and Counselling (Wangdue, 1999).
  • Resource Person for Workshop on Values Education organized the Ministry of Health & Education for School Principals and District Education Officers (Thimphu, 1999).
  • Resource Person for Workshop on Values Education organized by the Ministry of Health & Education for School Principals and District Education Officers (Punakha, 1999).

  Expert Service (others)

  Has provided knowledge based services whenever possible.

  • As a member of panel appointed by the Royal University of Bhutan, validated the MA English Programme of Sherubtse College, May 2017.
  • Expert service to the Royal Civil Service Commission for the ‘Preliminary Exams’ of 2011.
  • Expert service to the Royal Civil Service Commission for the ‘Preliminary Exams’ of 2010.
  • As a member of panel appointed by the Royal University of Bhutan, validated the BA Language and Literature (Honours) and Diploma in Language and Literature programmes of the Institute for Language and Culture Studies (ILCS) Royal University of Bhutan, November 2010.
  • Expert service to the Royal Civil Service Commission for the Civil Service Common Examinations of 2009 for Technical Graduates (6 November 2009) , General Graduates (13 November 2009), and Dzongkha Graduates (7 November 2009).
  • As a member of the panel appointed by the Royal University of Bhutan, carried out a ‘Resource Check’ of the Royal Thimphu College, 2009.
  • As a member of panel appointed by the Royal University of Bhutan, validated the BA English (Honours) programme of Sherubtse College, Royal University of Bhutan, November 2006.
  • As a member of panel appointed by the Royal University of Bhutan, validated the Bachelor of Engineering (Civil) Programme of the College of Science and Technology, Royal University of Bhutan, November 2005.

  Script Writing & Narration

  • Narrator for Video Documentary on Bhutan for the 31st International Society for Teacher Education (ISfTE) Seminar held in Norway (April 2011).
  • Writer and narrator for Barriers to Teaching and Learning & Good Practices for Addressing the Barriers: An ICT Video Documentation Project (2007). Ministry of Education, Thimphu.
  • Story and script writer for Thank You Sir, a national award winning film produced by TG Media and Infotainment, Thimphu (2013).

   Scholarships/Awards

  • Australian Leadership Award Fellow, University of New England (Australia), 2013
  • PhD with cum laude for a doctoral thesis of “exceptional quality”, University of New England, NSW (Australia), 2011
  • International Travel Scholarship for Doctoral Student, University of New England (Australia), 2009
  • Teaching Practice Award, National Institute of Education, Samtse (Bhutan), 1997
  • Professor A.G. Verghese Award for English, St. Anthony’s College (India), 1992

  Academic and Research Leadership Training (Selected)

  • University Governance in a Changing Environment. Vrije University, Amsterdam (January 2016).
  • The Global Wellbeing Lab 2.0 – Transforming Society and the Economy (3-4 February 2015 Berlin, Germany and 11 – 16 May 2015, Paro Bhutan) organized by the Global Leadership Academy, Germany, Presencing Institute, USA, and GNH Centre, Bhutan.
  • Capacity Building for Leadership in Higher Education, University of New England, Armidale, Australia, May-September, 2013).
  • PhD Supervisors’ Training Programme: Research Project Management; R & D Management; Knowledge Transfer and Commercialization of Research; Maximizing Research Career; Leadership Skills and Workplace Communication; and Entrepreneurship). Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Australia, 2011.
  • Intellectual property (IP) Management and Commercialization of IP Assets, World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO), Singapore, July 2012.