Dharamshala: The Department of Education, CTA, successfully conducted a three-day Reading Helpers Programme (RHP) workshop from 18–20 March 2026 at the St. Joseph Retreat Center, Old Goa. The programme brought together a total of 31 participants, including 18 Tibetan Language primary teachers and 13 English language teachers, representing 27 schools under the three school administrations—TCV, THF, and STSS.
This workshop marked a significant milestone as it was possibly the first time Tibetan Language teachers participated in a training programme outside their community, providing them with a valuable opportunity to explore new language teaching approaches. The programme was not only designed to enhance reading strategies but also served as an exposure visit, enabling participants to interact with educators from diverse settings and experience different learning environments.
This was the second Reading Helpers Programme organised in collaboration with Bookworm, a Goa-based library and reading organisation, following the first programme held in 2024. As part of the workshop, participants visited Bookworm’s community library in Panjim on the second day, where faculty members demonstrated a variety of innovative reading strategies and programme initiatives.
The three-day workshop was facilitated by experienced trainers—Sujata Noronha, Anandita Rao, Jennifer Thomas, and Ashwini Padwal—who introduced participants to a range of literacy games and engaging activities, with a special focus on read-aloud techniques.
Participants found the sessions highly enriching and interactive. During the closing programme, two participants expressed their appreciation, noting that the workshop provided them with new insights and practical learning experiences.
At the closing ceremony, Sonam Gangsang, EGR Programme Coordinator of DoE, extended gratitude to the Bookworm team for their collaboration with the Department of Education in organising the workshop.
The programme also included a pre-workshop virtual orientation held on 6 March, and follow-up post-workshop sessions scheduled for 28 and 29 April, where participants will present their assignments. As part of the assignment, teachers will work with two children struggling with reading, applying the strategies learned during the workshop.
Overall, the workshop served as a meaningful platform for professional development, collaboration, and innovation in literacy education, equipping teachers with practical tools to support young learners in developing foundational reading skills.
The programme is funded by the US Government.
