Dharamshala: The Department of Education, Central Tibetan Administration, in collaboration with the Tibetan National Sports Association (TNSA), inaugurated a workshop for physical education teachers today at the Upper Tibetan Children’s Village School in Dharamshala. The workshop began with a brief opening ceremony, graced by Education Kalon (Minister) Tharlam Dolma Changra.
Also present at the ceremony were Additional Secretary Tenzin Dorjee and Section Officer Sonam Gangsang from the Education Department’s Academic Section, along with Jangchup Gyaltsen, Executive Director of TNSA, and workshop facilitator Tenzin Choezom.
Funded by Global Affairs Canada through Alinea International, the workshop brings together 31 participants from schools under the administration of TCV, THF, and STSS.
In his opening remarks, Additional Secretary Tenzin Dorjee introduced the objectives of the workshop, noting that it is being held after a gap of nine years. He shared that ₹24 lakh had been sanctioned for the purchase of sports equipment, which was distributed among 34 Tibetan schools based on school level and student strength.
Delivering the keynote address, Education Kalon Tharlam Dolma Changra highlighted the often-overlooked contributions of extracurricular teachers, particularly in physical education. She stressed their vital role in fostering students’ physical and mental well-being. “While many dream of becoming doctors or engineers, we often forget the teachers who shape those dreams,” she noted, calling them the true foundation of a healthy and progressive society.
At the same time, Education Kalon encouraged participating teachers to engage actively in sports activities alongside their students, rather than merely handing out sports equipment and leaving students unattended. She stressed the importance of inclusivity in sports, advocating for equal opportunities for all genders. “Ensuring gender inclusiveness in all sporting activities is crucial,” she added.
Before concluding her address, the Education Kalon reaffirmed the Department of Education’s commitment to supporting all four Tibetan school systems equally and fairly.
The opening ceremony concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Section Officer Sonam Gangsang.
Over the four-day workshop, facilitators will provide both theoretical and practical training on subjects such as sports science, track and field, yoga, basketball, football, physiotherapy, and gender equality in games and sports.
