Educating for Gross National Happiness and the Three Poisons: Redefining the purpose of education in Bhutan

Abstract

This study examines how Bhutan’s education system integrates the Buddhist concept of the Three Poisons—Greed, Hatred, and Ignorance—within the broader framework of Educating for Gross National Happiness (EdGNH). Using a qualitative research approach, the study involved face-to-face interviews with five curriculum developers, seven teachers, three school principals, and an open-ended survey questionnaire with two key informants. Participants were selected through a purposeful sampling method with “willingness to participate and experience” as the primary criterion. In addition, a detailed review of key policy documents, such as the Bhutan Education Blueprint (2014–2024), the National Education Policy (2022), the National School Curriculum Framework (2021), subject-specific curriculum frameworks and school mission and vision statements, was also conducted. Thematic analysis, guided by Braun and Clarke’s framework, revealed that the Three Poisons are both explicitly and implicitly addressed in school settings. While Dzongkha directly tackles these concepts, they are subtly woven into English, History, Mathematics, Science, Geography, and Economics. Participants also described a range of co-curricular activities that cultivate mindfulness, compassion, and critical thinking—qualities that counteract the effects of the Three Poisons. The findings contribute to values-based education discourse, illustrating how Buddhist wisdom enhances modern educational practices. The study shows how Bhutan’s GNH-oriented system fosters ethical awareness, emotional resilience, and holistic development, ultimately redefining the purpose of education to support well-being and national happiness.