Dharamshala: In accordance with the resolution adopted at the 8th Tibetan General Conference on Education, 5 November – the birth anniversary of former Kalon Tripa and Professor Kyabje Samdhong Rinpoche – has been designated as Tibetan Teachers’ Day. To mark the occasion, Kalon (Minister) Urgen Tenzin of the Department of Education (CTA) issued a message honouring Kyabje Samdhong Rinpoche’s visionary leadership and dedicated contributions to the advancement of modern Tibetan education in exile.
Beginning with a homage to His Holiness the Dalai Lama, the message acknowledges Kyabje Samdhong Rinpoche’s invaluable contributions to Tibetan education, religion, and public service. In particular, his vision and leadership in formulating a Basic Education Policy tailored to the fundamental needs of Tibetans in exile laid a strong foundation for an education system that integrates traditional Tibetan knowledge with modern learning.
For more than four decades, Kyabje Samdhong Rinpoche has served the Tibetan education system in various capacities, including as a primary school teacher, Buddhist philosophy teacher, school principal, and principal and chancellor of universities. His dedication and contributions have left a lasting legacy, helping shape generations of Tibetans equipped with knowledge, discernment, and sound ethical values.
On this occasion, the Education Kalon encouraged all teachers to uphold their noble responsibilities with renewed dedication, commitment, and exemplary conduct, while striving to nurture future generations of Tibetans equipped with both spiritual and worldly knowledge.
Access the full message in Tibetan below.