Yangchenphug Higher Secondary School

Yangchenphug Higher Secondary School (YHSS) is one of Bhutan's most prestigious and historic educational institutions, established in 1965 by His Majesty King Jigme Dorji Wangchuck, Bhutan's third monarch. Located in the Yangchenphug area of Thimphu, the school derives its name from 'Yangchen' (Lhamo Yangchenma, the Buddhist goddess of wisdom and music) and 'phug' (hill), reflecting its cultural roots and geographic setting. Starting as Thimphu Public School with just six teachers and classes from kindergarten to grade four, the institution has grown to become one of the country's premier co-educational government secondary schools with approximately 1,465 students. The school's alumni include notable figures such as His Majesty King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck, Bhutan's fifth king. Operating on the Bhutanese national curriculum, YHSS offers comprehensive education with a Buddhist religious affiliation and strong emphasis on Gross National Happiness values. The school publishes an annual magazine called 'Yangchen Juedmang' (symbolizing the lute associated with goddess Yangchenma) and maintains eight houses for student organization and healthy competition.