Dharamshala 1 April 2026 Education Kalon Tharlam Dolma Changra of the Department of Education Central Tibetan Administration inaugurated the Tibetan Language Laboratory and Math Lab at Mewoen Tsuglag Petoen School during a visit focused on strengthening educational resources and promoting cultural preservation
Upon arrival the Kalon was welcomed by Sambhota Director Tsering Dhondup Drongpa Petoen School Principal Lekshay Nyima and Headmistress Tenzin Choedon She then formally inaugurated the new facilities and inspected the laboratories
The Tibetan Language Laboratory was established with support from former Tibetan Parliamentarian Pema Chagzoetsang who facilitated funding of ten thousand US dollars through the Utah Tibetan Community Foundation The Math Lab at Petoen School along with science and math centres in Bylakuppe Shimla Dholanji and Upper TCV schools was supported by Lord Cowdray through Tibet House Trust and the Office of Tibet London
These contributions enabled the school to improve its facilities with audio visual equipment internet connectivity teaching tools and a wide range of Tibetan childrens books sourced from both inside Tibet and exile communities
Following the inauguration the Kalon addressed teachers and students in the school hall The programme also included the presentation of certificates of excellence and consolation awards to students of classes six to eight who participated in the eleventh Tibetan Essay Writing Programme held in September 2025
In her address the Kalon spoke about the challenges facing the preservation of Tibetan language and culture under policies of the government of the Peoples Republic of China She stated that such measures pose a serious threat to Tibetan identity and noted efforts to weaken ethnic and cultural distinctiveness
She highlighted that Mandarin Chinese is increasingly made compulsory in schools in Tibet while infrastructure projects are used to present a narrative of development to the international community She stressed that these developments often conceal efforts to marginalise Tibetan language culture and identity
The Kalon emphasised that Tibetans in exile have a greater responsibility to preserve and promote their heritage She urged schools teachers and parents to ensure that younger generations remain rooted in their language and culture and encouraged students to follow the teachings of 14th Dalai Lama
Addressing students directly she encouraged them to study with dedication and purpose and to set goals from an early stage She urged them to make full use of educational opportunities and to grow into responsible individuals who can contribute to the Tibetan community
She also stressed the importance of discipline respect and good behaviour and reminded students to remain respectful toward teachers and staff She added that if the new facilities prove successful similar resources may be introduced in other schools
The programme concluded with a vote of thanks by Headmistress Tenzin Choedon
Later the Kalon met with teaching and non teaching staff at the school library where she spoke about the importance of hygiene and overall wellbeing She noted that a clean and healthy environment is essential for effective learning
She reminded teachers of their responsibility in shaping the knowledge character and future of students and encouraged them to carry out their work with dedication compassion and commitment She also emphasised that teaching should inspire a love for learning and a sense of values among students
Drawing from her experience as a former teacher she highlighted the importance of teamwork and cooperation among staff She stated that the smooth functioning of a school depends on collective effort and proper lesson planning
In her concluding remarks she encouraged open communication and collaboration among staff to address challenges and strengthen the school environment
The Kalon was accompanied by Department of Education officials including Additional Secretary Tenzin Pema Deputy Secretary Ngodup Tenpa and Under Secretaries Dorjee Wangdue Tsering Yangkyi and Tenzin Kunchok