His Holiness the Dalai Lama graced the 10th founding anniversary of MewoenTsuglagPetoen School, a model Tibetan school in Dharamshala, on October 10.
His Holiness congratulated the students,staff and administration for living up to the name and for their recent successful results. He especially thanked Professor Samdhong Rinpoche for taking the main responsibility for the model school since its inception.
In addressing the gathering, he also spoke about the importance of preserving the Tibetan language and how it has played a role in sustaining the essence of Tibetan culture in the face of massive political tragedy in the past.
Speaking about the responsibilities and opportunities of youth for the betterment of the whole world, His Holiness said, “As for Tibet, our struggle is not of one generation. It is a struggle of one generation to another. Today’s new generation of youth should preserve and promote the unique tradition and culture of Tibet. With that you have the opportunity as well as the duty to work for the benefit of whole world.” Emphasising the significance of fusion of modern and traditional education, he said that modern education alone cannot create a peaceful society.
Other dignitaries present at the event were special guest of honour Professor Samdhong Rinpoche, PenpaTsering, Speaker of the Tibetan Parliament-in-Exile, Education Minister (Kalon) Ngodup Tsering and other senior members of Tibetan Government-in-exile.
Professor Samdhong Rinpoche in his address clarified that the Basic Education Policy (BEP) is not entirely created by him alone, as perceived by many people. He said, “It is true that the policy was passed during our Kashag(cabinet) but it was result of constant guidance from His Holiness the Dalai Lama on the Tibetan language, education etc and it was also derived from teachings of the Buddha.” The BEP was formally announced during Rinpoche’s tenure and the Tibetan model school, was established in 2005 as a result of that policy.
Mewoen Tsuglag Petoen School is based on holistic approach of learning through the Basic Education Policy of Tibetans in exile.