Dharamshala: Education Kalon, Tharlam Dolma inaugurated the newly constructed Metok Day-Care Centre at Gangchen Kyishong this morning.

Established by the parents’ committee of the center, the centre currently accommodates 33 children ranging between the ages of 1-3. The centre majorly caters to the needs of working parents of the Central Tibetan Administration but aspires to gradually enroll more children of the parents working at the nearby NGOs.

The center will operate between 9 AM-5 PM on all working days under the supervision of a teacher and four assistant staff who are trained caregivers. The children will enjoy well-organised programs and facilities to enhance their cognitive skills.

“The collective efforts of parents, teachers and caregivers have a huge impact on the holistic growth of the children, especially during the toddler’s phase,” remarked Kalon Tharlam Dolma in her inaugural address. She emphasised the importance of parents spending quality time with their children and providing them with a secure environment for them to thrive, and meanwhile, rebuked the use of any form of punishment to discipline.

The centre’s major source of income is derived from the nominal admission fee and the Kashag provides about 20% of the total income.

The construction of the new centre was funded by the Office of Tibet in Taiwan.

Education Secretary Jigme Namgyal, Acting Finance Secretary Tenzin Legdup, and some senior officials were present at the inauguration.