Dharamshala: The two-day annual conference, from 13 to 14 March 2025, of the 12th Education Council and Advisory Committee commenced earlier this morning at the Kashag (Cabinet) Secretariat. The meeting, focused on reviewing previous resolutions, improving educational curricula, and discussing the preservation of Tibetan language and culture.
Presided over by Sikyong Penpa Tsering, the inaugural session of the conference was attended by Education Kalon (Minister) Tharlam Dolma Changra, Chair of Education Council Geshe Lhakdor, Education Secretary Jigme Namgyal, and members of the Education Council and Advisory Committee, namely Additional Secretary Tenzin Pema (DoE), Additional Secretary Tenzin Dorjee (DoE), Education Director Ngawang Lhamo (TCV), Education Director Dr. Passang Dhundup (THS Mussoorie), Director Tsering Dhondup (STSS), Education Officer Tenzin Rabgyal (Snowlion Foundation), Professor Ven. Lhakpa Tsering (CIHTS, Varanasi), Professor Sonam Gyaltsen (CHTS, Sarah), and Principal Nyima Dhondup (Palkhang Academy).
Education Council Director Tenzin Pema delivered the welcome address and introduced the program. In his opening remarks, Geshe Lhakdor, Chairperson of the Education Council, underscored the importance of strengthening Tibetan education and fostering a deeper connection to Tibetan cultural identity. He emphasised that to enhance student learning, it is crucial to have well-educated teachers. Furthermore, he highlighted that education should be a collective responsibility, urging everyone to prioritise and contribute to educational advancement. He also spoke on the significance of continuous learning and training, stating that education extends beyond reading and writing, encompassing a broader and more profound scope.
Education Kalon Tharlam Dolma Changra reaffirmed the Department of Education’s commitment to improving educational standards and supporting Tibetan schools. Education Kalon announced that the academic school inspection, which could not be conducted in 2024, will take place in 2025. Emphasising the need to adapt to changing times, she stated that initiatives that no longer contribute effectively should be discontinued, and efforts should focus on implementing plans that drive positive outcomes. She further highlighted the importance of assessing weekend schools, identifying the challenges they face, and examining necessary changes to enhance their effectiveness.
In his address, Sikyong Penpa Tsering spoke about the USAID program, stating that on 27 February, he sent a letter to Senator Marco Rubio and Peter Marocco. In response, on 10 March, he received a reply from Senator Rubio affirming that there are no changes in the U.S. government’s stand and support for the Tibet cause and that they will continue to back the Tibetan people’s struggle for freedom and justice. However, Sikyong noted that the aid is still under review.
Sikyong further emphasised the importance of allowing children to pursue their passions rather than solely focusing on academic studies. He highlighted that some children excel in extracurricular activities, such as handicraft skills, and suggested adopting Swiss models to support children according to their interests.
The opening session concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Education Council Director Tenzin Pema.
Following the inaugural session, the meeting proceeded with a detailed review of the resolutions from the 8th to 11th joint meetings, finalises the computer curriculum and addresses challenges in teaching Social Science in Tibetan. It also evaluates Tibetan language guidebooks, discusses the impact of Chinese policies on Tibetan culture and explores strategies to preserve and promote Tibetan identity. Further discussions focus on supporting Tibetan language proficiency, aiding Tibetan children abroad, organising panel discussions on Tibetan disciplines, and integrating folk knowledge into the curriculum, with ongoing deliberations to strengthen Tibetan education and cultural preservation.
