Dharamshala: Three years after the launch of the first Vision Paper: Securing Tibet’s Future by the 16th Kashag of the Central Tibetan Administration (CTA), the 17th Kashag launched a revised version of the paper earlier this morning at Sikyong Hall in Gangchen Kyishong.

Guided by the principles of Equitable Justice, Cooperative Effort, and Moving Forward, the revised paper aims to provide clear direction and guidance to the staff and leadership of the Central Tibetan Administration. It seeks to further strengthen institutional efficiency, enhance productivity, foster cohesive collaboration, promote sustainability, and ensure greater self-reliance in the face of emerging challenges.

Sikyong Penpa Tsering, using a PowerPoint presentation, introduced the key issues outlined in the paper to a gathering of all CTA staff. The Kalons (Ministers) of the 17th Kashag, with the exception of one, also accompanied Sikyong on the dais during the presentation.

The presentation was conducted with the aim of fostering strong leadership–bureaucratic alignment in fulfilling the CTA’s two key responsibilities: seeking an early resolution to the Sino-Tibet conflict and promoting the welfare of the Tibetan community in exile, while also ensuring efficient and effective administrative functioning of the CTA through strengthening its capacity.

The session was also joined by Representatives of the Offices of Tibet and Tibetan Settlement Officers virtually and was aired online for the general public on Tibet TV.

According to the Sikyong’s message in the paper, “The 16th Kashag published the Vision Paper: Securing Tibet’s Future to help officials, the public, and all concerned understand the importance of Tibet and the Tibetan people; strategies for realising the just cause of Tibet; policies for the welfare of the Tibetan community in exile; and plans to strengthen the Central Tibetan Administration. It sought to bring everyone’s collective efforts together and has yielded positive results. Building on that foundation, we now present a revised paper setting out the 17th Kashag’s overall position, working approaches, and long-term vision for the attention of all relevant stakeholders.”

The highlights in this revised version have been compartmentalised into three sections. The first encompasses the realisation of the just cause of Tibet through strengthening the existing Permanent Strategy Committee; engaging with Chinese people and affected groups; securing recognition of Tibet’s historical status; countering the Chinese government’s interference in the reincarnation of His Holiness the Dalai Lama; countering the Chinese government’s infiltration and deception; and strengthening Tibetan advocacy.

Pertaining to the welfare of the Tibetan community in exile, the second section addresses the reinforcement of social cohesion through safeguarding and sustaining democratic practices, ensuring transparency in administration, strengthening relations between the administration and the public, providing additional care for those in need, empowering women and youth, and strengthening relations with organisations and other bodies. This section also discusses protecting Tibetan identity and sustaining the community by building and sustaining compact Tibetan communities, supporting monastic and religious institutions, promoting healthy settlements, and creating opportunities for sustainable livelihoods.

In the face of Beijing’s systematic efforts to eradicate Tibetan linguistic and cultural heritage, including the coercive enrolment of more than one million Tibetan children in state-run boarding schools and the enactment of the so-called “Law on Promoting Ethnic Unity and Progress”, the paper underscores the promotion of Tibetan education and language through consolidating Tibetan schools in India, sustaining the Basic Education Policy for Tibetans-in-Exile, and promoting the use and development of the Tibetan language and script.

To fulfil these objectives and realise the policies, the final section emphasises strengthening the capacity of the CTA. This section addresses programme planning, implementation, and follow-up in accordance with the laws of the host country, with the aim of ensuring financial transparency and a sound system of accountability. It further highlights the strengthening of institutional capacity through the controlled and appropriate use of artificial intelligence, the establishment of an Institutional Development Index Data Management (IDI-DM) system, and the timely delivery of staff capacity-building training.

Along with the revised Vision Paper: Securing Tibet’s Future, two additional documents outlining the 17th Kashag’s position and providing guidelines for the working approach of CTA departments were also presented to the gathering.

Dharamshala: Kalon of the Department of Religion and Culture, Tsegyal Chukya Dranyi, attended the closing ceremony of the Lotsawa (Translator) Training Programme organised by the Library of Tibetan Works and Archives (LTWA) this morning at the library’s main hall. Geshe Lhakdor, Director of the LTWA, also attended the ceremony, which marked the completion of the 11-month Lotsawa training programme.

A total of 12 Tibetan Buddhist monks and nuns from different monastic institutions completed the year-long training, with the majority of the participants coming from the Himalayan regions. The programme was facilitated by the Department of Religion and Culture of the Central Tibetan Administration in collaboration with the LTWA, with partial funding support from the US State Department through the Tibet Fund.

The closing ceremony began with the chief guest lighting a ceremonial butter lamp before the portrait of His Holiness the Dalai Lama and offering a khatag. This was followed by reflections from two participants on their experience of the year-long translation and language training, which began in October last year. An English-language teacher from the programme also shared her experience of teaching and supporting the participants, particularly while working with students who had varying levels of English proficiency.

In his address, LTWA Director Geshe Lhakdor spoke about the importance of translation and the role of translators. He explained that translation essentially involves two key components: transferring the meaning of a source language (SL) and the original text into a target language (TL). He emphasised that this requires translators to develop a strong command of both languages and to continue working and learning throughout their pursuit of the profession.

Geshe Lhakdor expressed his appreciation to the participants for remaining committed to the programme for 11 months and successfully completing the training. He also acknowledged the significant number of participants from the Himalayan region and encouraged them to take equal responsibility for strengthening their Tibetan language skills, particularly in preserving and promoting the Tibetan Buddhist Dharma as taught by His Holiness the Dalai Lama.

Quoting His Holiness the Dalai Lama, Geshe Lhakdor highlighted the importance of developing quality human resources to respond to the growing global interest in Tibetan Buddhism. He noted that Tibetan Buddhism has the potential to contribute to world peace and harmony.

Furthermore, Geshe Lhakdor quoted Gendün Chöphel, the 20th-century Tibetan scholar and thinker, who emphasised the invaluable contribution of Lotsawa in translating Buddhist texts into Tibetan. He said that Tibetans should remain grateful to the translators of Tibetan Buddhist texts, noting that even if they were to repay them with their treasures and wealth, it would not be sufficient to express their gratitude. He likened Tibet to a land surrounded by snow mountains but filled with darkness within, saying that the Lotsawa were responsible for bringing light into that darkness.

He further recalled Gendün Chöphel’s reminder that Tibetans should always remain grateful for the work of Lotsawa and the Dharma Kings of Tibet, whose efforts made possible the translation of a vast body of ancient Indian texts into Tibetan.

Addressing the gathering, Kalon Tsegyal Chukya Dranyi expressed his appreciation for the hard work and dedication of the language teachers who conducted the 11-month training for 12 participants from different monastic institutions, each with varying levels of English-language proficiency.

He said that the training programme was the first of its kind and aligned with the Department of Religion and Culture’s initiatives marking the Year of Compassion, commemorating the 90th birthday of His Holiness the Dalai Lama.

Kalon said, the training programme aimed to strengthen the English-language skills of monks and nuns so that they could contribute to translation work and serve as translators of Buddhist teachings for non-Tibetan speakers. In accordance with the wishes of His Holiness the Dalai Lama, the translation skills acquired through the programme can also support discussions and exchanges with scientists, particularly in the field of dialogue between Buddhism and science.

Kalon Tsegyal Chukya Dranyi extended his best wishes to the participants and encouraged them to carry forward the knowledge and skills gained through the programme, continue pursuing translation work, and make use of technology to further their learning and development.

30 September is also observed as International Translation Day. This year’s theme is “Linguistic Diversity and Language Rights: The Power of Being Understood.”

Dharamshala: The two-day 14th meeting of the Central Tibetan Administration’s Education Council and Advisory Committee began earlier this morning at the Department of Education’s conference hall. The meeting focused on reviewing previous resolution, improving educational curricula, strengthen efforts to preserve the Tibetan language and culture in exile.

Presided over by Sikyong Penpa Tsering, the inaugural session of the conference was attended by Education Education Kalon (Minister) Urgen Tenzin, Chair of Education Council Thupten Lungrig (former Education Kalon and former parliamentarian), Education Secretary Karma Choeying, and members of the Education Council and Advisory Committee, namely Additional Secretary Tenzin Pema (DoE), Joint Secretary Jamyang Wangyal (Head of the Academic Section), Deputy Secretary Ngodup Tenpa (Traditional Education Officer), Professor Sonam Gyaltsen (CHTS, Sarah), Principal Nyima Dhondup (Palkhang Academy), Geshe Lharampa Lodoe Sangpo, Education Director Ngawang Lhamo (TCV), Education Director Rinzin Dawa (THS Mussoorie), and Deputy Director Tenzin Ngadon (STSS).

The session began with a welcome address and introduced the programme of the joint meeting by Executive Director of the Education Council, Additional Secretary Tenzin Pema. She further introduced the new Chair of the Education Council Thupten Lungrig, new members Geshe Lharampa Lodoe Sangpo, and THS Mussoorie Education Director Rinzin Dawa.

Chair of Education Council Thupten Lungrig, addressed the gathering stating that the Education Council and Advisory Committee’s was established following the introduction of Basic Education Policy (BEP) as well as the importance of knowing BEP, and its background. 

Highlighting the historical foundations of Tibetan education in exile, he detailed how the Charter of the Tibetans-in-Exile mandates the establishment of a standardised educational framework. This constitutional directive subsequently led the Central Tibetan Administration (CTA) to formulate and enact the Basic Education Policy for Tibetans in Exile in 2004.

He elucidated that the mandate formalised in the Charter and the subsequent formulation of the BEP are deeply intertwined with the vision of His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama. His Holiness served both as the primary conceptual architect of the exile educational system and the supreme authority who historically brought it into law. Later when BEP was passed in 2004, and later as a result the Mewoen Tsuglag Petoen School was explicitly established by the CTA to serve as the official model school for implementing the core principles of BEP.

He further emphasised the importance of understanding the historical and key objectives of the BEP when implementing its guidelines, noting educators and administrators must align their daily teaching practices with the core vision to ensure the long-term preservation of Tibetan language and values.

Addressing the gathering, Education Kalon Ugen Tenzin briefed on the significance of the 2004 Basic Education Policy and traced its evolution since the founding of the Gangkyi Petoen School. He noted that the initiative received overwhelmingly positive feedback, paving the way for the progressive implementation of BEP guidelines across various other Tibetan schools in exile. Kalon Ugen Tenzin highlighted the transformative impact of the BEP within the Tibetan community, drawing a parallel to how India’s National Education Policy (NEP) seeks to foster independent, and holistic learning for future generations.

Education Kalon called upon all schools, parents, and the broader society to recognise the importance and long-term benefits of the BEP in shaping the future of the younger generation. He also stressed the indispensable role of parents in understanding and upholding the policy at home, emphasising that family engagement is crucial to nurturing native language proficiency and traditional ethical values.

Addressing broader geopolitical challenges, Education Kalon noted that among the key proposals presented, one specifically focused on strategies to counter the People’s Republic of China’s (PRC) “Law on Promoting Ethnic Unity and Progress.” He highlighted the urgent need to challenge forced assimilation policies and protect Tibetan cultural and linguistic identity against China’s systematic erasure.

Education Kalon also highlighted Tibetan National Identity Preservation Week, designated by the Central Tibetan Administration (CTA) to be observed annually during the fourth week of September. In conclusion, Kalon urged educators, administrators, and community members alike to thoroughly understand the background and fundamental objectives of the BEP, calling unified efforts to safeguard Tibetan identity and heritage for generations to come.

Addressing the gathering, Chief Guest Sikyong Penpa Tsering also spoke about Education Council Chair Thupten Lungrig, who has been associated with the development and implementation of the BEP since its early stages. Sikyong acknowledged his longstanding contribution and involvement in the formulation of the policy.

Sikyong also discussed the potential benefits of making the Education Council and its Advisory Committee more autonomous that greater institutional independence could benefit both bodies as well as the Department of Education and contribute to positive outcomes in the future. He emphasised that this should be kept in mind when considering the future development and functioning of the education system.

In his address, Sikyong Penpa Tsering also spoke about the declining number of students enrolling in Tibetan schools, identifying the low birth rate within the Tibetan community as one of the major factors contributing to the decline in school enrolment. He noted that the issue presents a growing challenge for the Department of Education and requires more than simply offering advice or raising awareness. He emphasised the need to understand the underlying demographic and social factors and to develop practical and sustainable measures to address the changing circumstances of Tibetan schools and communities.

Sikyong further emphasised the need to take into account the current challenges faced by major Tibetan settlements and communities while planning for the future of Tibetan education. He called for forward-looking strategies, clear implementation plans and concrete proposals that respond to changing needs and circumstances.

Sikyong stressed that future policies and programmes should be developed through careful assessment of existing challenges, with a focus on practical implementation and achieving positive outcomes for Tibetan students and the education system as a whole.

Sikyong also highlighted the financial challenges faced by Tibetan schools in Nepal to suggest that sustainability of these institutions requires close coordination between the Department of Education and the Department of Finance. He particularly drew attention to the eight Tibetan schools currently operating in Nepal, including those in Kathmandu, and stressed the need to assess their present circumstances and consider their long-term sustainability.

Sikyong underscored that the future of these schools should be carefully considered in light of changing student enrolment, financial constraints and the evolving needs of Tibetan communities. He called for both departments to work together in developing appropriate strategies, proposals and implementation plans to ensure the continued functioning and effectiveness of Tibetan schools in the years ahead to exile Tibetan communities.

Sikyong also addressed the challenges faced by Tibetans in exile, particularly among the younger generation living abroad. He highlighted concerns over the declining use of the Tibetan language and the difficulties faced in maintaining language proficiency among younger Tibetans. He emphasised the need to strengthen Tibetan language education and improve teaching methods.

Before concluding, Chief Guest Sikyong Penpa Tsering emphasised the urgent need to ensure that younger generations of Tibetans remain informed about the prevailing situation inside Tibet. He expressed concern over policies and laws being implemented by PRC that are increasingly undermining the use and preservation of the Tibetan language. He stressed that the erosion of the Tibetan language poses a serious challenge to the preservation of Tibetan identity, culture and heritage, and called on the younger generation to recognise the importance of safeguarding their language and maintaining their connection to Tibet.

The two-day joint meeting will feature ten session covering various topics. The first and second agenda centred on reviewing resolutions and follow-up actions from the 13th Education Council and Advisory Committee Joint Meetings held on February, along with other matters deemed necessary by the committee.

Dharamshala: On 27 September 2026, Kalon Kunga Tashi of the Department of Security, Central Tibetan Administration (CTA), attended a photo exhibition documenting demonstrations inside Tibet and a commemoration marking the 35th anniversary of the founding of the Gu-Chu-Sum Movement of Tibet, an organisation formed by former Tibetan political prisoners in exile.

At 10 a.m., Ngawang Woebar, president of the organisation, welcomed the Kalon. Upon his arrival at the association’s hall, the Kalon inaugurated the photo exhibition. Ngawang Woebar then provided a brief introduction to the photographs, which document protests inside Tibet four decades ago. Following the lighting of the ceremonial lamp by the Kalon, the association’s president briefly introduced the programme for the day’s commemoration.

Addressing the gathering, the Kalon said that, 35 years after the founding of the Gu-Chu-Sum Movement of Tibet, the occasion provided an opportunity to reflect on Tibet’s modern history. He commended the association for preserving and re-exhibiting these historically significant photographs, which document the courage of Tibetan men and women who protested against the repressive policies of the Chinese Communist government.

The Kalon noted that, following the establishment of contact and exchanges between Tibetans inside Tibet and those in exile, photographs documenting the repression faced by a new generation of Tibetan protesters were secretly sent out of Tibet by individuals who employed various means and risked considerable danger to ensure that they reached the exile community. He said these photographs have played an important role in helping present and future generations remember and understand the situation inside Tibet.

The Kalon further stressed the importance of preserving such photographs for future generations, noting that the history they document could otherwise gradually be forgotten. He urged that the photographs be preserved over the long term with appropriate explanatory captions. He also called on non-governmental organisations to provide accurate historical context when using the photographs in awareness campaigns. He said it would also be commendable if similar organisations could publish books documenting the history of these Tibetan patriots.

The Kalon also acknowledged the many individuals inside Tibet who worked anonymously and at considerable personal risk to send such photographs to the exile community. He called on Tibetans living in exile to use the occasion to remember these individuals and express their gratitude for their selfless contributions.

The Kalon expressed the hope that the Gu-Chu-Sum Movement of Tibet would commemorate the occasion on a larger scale and through diverse programmes in the future, saying that such efforts would benefit younger generations. He noted that while generations continue to change inside Tibet, the hopes of Tibetan youth remain centred on His Holiness the Dalai Lama and the Central Tibetan Administration. In this regard, he stressed the importance of unity and called on all Tibetans in exile to work together with a common purpose.

On behalf of the Gu-Chu-Sum Movement of Tibet, the Kalon presented tokens of appreciation to the Director of the Library of Tibetan Works and Archives (LTWA), and Kalsang Jigme, the Chief Editor of Tibet Radio, in recognition of their assistance with the exhibition.

The inauguration was attended by members of the Gu-Chu-Sum Movement of Tibet, representatives of various non-governmental organisations, and media personnel.

– Report filed by Department of Security, CTA 

Dharamshala, 25 September 2026: The 18th Tibetan Parliament-in-Exile successfully concluded its second session after deliberating on the reports of the seven departments of the Central Tibetan Administration, amendments to the Rules of the Public Service Commission (PSC), passing resolution on the constitution of the 13th Public Accounts Committee, the passage of three obituary references, an official solidarity resolution concerning the critical situation inside Tibet, and a resolution mandating the use of the Tibetan language, without mixing it with other languages, by the leaders, officials, and staff of the Central Tibetan Administration in carrying out their official duties.

Chaired by Speaker Dolma Tsering Teykhang, the ninth day of the second session of the 18th Tibetan Parliament-in-Exile commenced with deliberation on the DIIR’s annual report with DIIR Kalon Penpa Tsering providing clarifications in response to questions raised in the House.

The discussion highlighted the importance of imparting accurate and relevant information about Tibet to a wider audience. Particular emphasis was placed on the need to produce concise and engaging short videos on Tibet-related issues and share them through social media platforms, in order to reach a broader audience, especially younger generations.

The discussion also underscored the importance of strengthening unity and solidarity among Tibetans and encouraging the collective efforts of every Tibetan toward the common cause of Tibet. In this context, the final message of Tibetan martyr Lobga Rangzen was recalled as a powerful reminder of the responsibility and collective commitment required from Tibetans.

The research articles and publications produced by the Tibet Policy Institute were also appreciated for their contribution to generating greater awareness and understanding of Tibet-related issues. There was further discussion on the need to expand the Institute’s research and outreach activities so that its work can reach a wider audience and contribute more effectively to informed discourse on Tibet.

The précis report for 2025–2026 of the Department of Health (DoHe) was then presented by its Kalon, Pema Tso. Parliamentarian Gyaltsen Choekye Gagya subsequently presented the Standing Committee’s reviewed report on the DoHe’s detailed annual report for 2025–2026.

A motion to deliberate on the DoHe’s annual report was moved by Parliamentarian Lobsang Thupten Pontsang and seconded by Parliamentarian Choedak Gyatso. The DoHe Kalon then presented the Kashag’s clarifications on the matters raised during the deliberation.

The House discussed the importance of the health and well-being of the Tibetan diaspora in sustaining the just cause of Tibet. The discussion covered improving accessibility and providing necessary support and assistance for differently abled members of the community, concerns regarding the increasing number of autism cases, strengthening healthcare facilities and ensuring regular health check-ups, the need to establish emergency health funds, and initiatives to promote mental health awareness across Tibetan communities. Kalon Pema Tso responded to and addressed the questions and concerns raised by the members of the House.

The session proceeded with the presentation of the Interim Budget of the Department of Home (DoH), comprising Interim Budget Nos. 205, 206, and 207, by DoH Kalon Palden Dhondup. A motion to deliberate on the DoH’s Interim Budget was moved by DoH Kalon Palden Dhondup and seconded by DoF Kalon Tsering Dhondup.

Following discussion, the Interim Budget for the renovation of offices and quarters, as well as the procurement of necessary items for the quarters, was approved with a majority vote.

An official motion to constitute the 13th Public Accounts Committee was moved by parliamentarian Lobsang Thupten Pontsang and supported by parliamentarian Choedak Gyatso. The official motion was passed unanimously.

Continuing with legislative procedures, third reading and adoption of the Rule of Public Service Commission (PSC), followed by reading of leave of absence of the members by Secretary-General Sonam Dorjee.

The Speaker then gave her concluding address before announcing the conclusion of the second session of the 18thTibetan Parliament-in-Exile.

In her conclusion address, the Speaker provided an overview of the agenda discussed in this session and noted that the average participation of MPs in the deliberation was 29 parliamentarians.

Speaking about the Sinicization policies implemented in Tibet under the rule of the People’s Republic of China (PRC), the Speaker expressed concern over the declining birth rate among Tibetans in the diaspora. She underscored the importance of quality upbringing and called for greater efforts to ensure that younger generations remain deeply connected to and grounded in the rich cultural heritage, traditions, and values of the Tibetan people.

Calling for the collective efforts of Tibetans across the world, the Speaker appealed to Tibetans from all walks of life to contribute meaningfully to the Tibetan cause and to the preservation and promotion of Tibet’s rich cultural and traditional heritage.

In conclusion, the Speaker expressed her sincere gratitude to the staff of the Parliamentary Secretariat, the Department of Information and International Relations, the Department of Security, and the electrician from the Department of Home for their dedicated service and assistance throughout the session.

She concluded by offering prayers for the long life and continued well-being of His Holiness the Dalai Lama and for the swift and peaceful resolution of the Sino-Tibetan conflict.

The session adjourned sine die at 7:40 pm.

– Report filed by Tibetan Parliamentary Secretariat 

Dharamshala: Tibetan Institute of Performing Arts (TIPA) staged a new play on residential schools in Tibet on 24 September 2026 as part of activities marking Tibetan National Identity Preservation Week.

The premiere held at TIPA was attended by Education Kalon Ugyen Tenzin of the Central Tibetan Administration (CTA) as the chief guest, along with senior CTA officials, representatives of Tibetan schools, civil servants, journalists and other invited guests. 

Titled Residential Schools in Tibet, the play was written by TIPA researcher and playwright Lhashol Sonam Tseten and performed by TIPA artists. The production examines the growing use of residential schools in Tibetan areas and explores concerns surrounding the transmission of Tibetan language, culture and traditional values. 

In his opening remarks, TIPA Director said the production was developed in response to the Kashag’s call for Tibetans in exile to organise activities during the fourth week of September aimed at preserving and promoting Tibetan national identity. 

He said TIPA chose theatre as a medium to engage with contemporary issues affecting Tibetan society and to raise awareness of challenges surrounding the preservation of Tibetan language and cultural identity. 

The Director General also highlighted TIPA’s longstanding role in preserving and promoting Tibetan performing arts. Established in 1959, the institute has spent more than six decades preserving traditional Tibetan performing arts, particularly Ache Lhamo, as well as Tibetan music, dance and theatre. 

The play portrays concerns raised by the Tibetan exile community over developments inside Tibet, particularly the expansion of residential schooling for Tibetan children. It depicts the separation of children from their families and explores the challenges of maintaining Tibetan language, cultural traditions and identity within the residential-school system. 

Speaking after the performance, Education Kalon Ugyen Tenzin commended TIPA for producing the play within a relatively short period. He said the production presented the situation surrounding residential schools in Tibet in a compelling and emotionally powerful manner. 

The Kalon also suggested that the play be taken to Tibetan settlements and particularly Tibetan schools across India, allowing students and wider communities to engage with the subject through theatre. 

In his vote of thanks, TIPA’s Director General said the institute plans to take the production to Tibetan schools and settlements in different parts of India. He also said TIPA intends to present the play to Indian audiences in the future. 

The performance received an emotional response from the audience, with several attendees expressing appreciation for the artists and the production’s portrayal of issues related to Tibetan language and cultural preservation. 

The new production is part of TIPA’s broader efforts to use performing arts not only to preserve traditional Tibetan artistic forms but also to engage with contemporary issues affecting Tibetan society, language, culture and identity.  

-Report filed by Tibetan Institute of Performing Arts

Dharamshala: Additional Secretary Dekyi Dolker officially assumed charge as the Acting Secretary of the Election Commission, Central Tibetan Administration, earlier today on 24 September 2026 from the outgoing Secretary Lobsang Choedak.

The handing-over ceremony was held in the presence of Chief Election Commissioner, Lobsang Yeshi. During the ceremony, official documents, stationery, and financial records were formally transferred to the incoming Acting Secretary Dekyi Dolkar.

Brief Bio:

Dekyi Dolker was born on 15 September 1973 to Wangchen and Jampa Paldon in Lhasa, Tibet.

She joined the Central Tibetan Administration (CTA) as a probationer and was initially appointed as an Under Secretary in the Department of Education (DoE). Her service as a probationer commenced on 13 March 2006 and concluded with her permanent appointment on 18 December 2006. During this period, she was briefly transferred to the Public Service Commission on 12 January 2006 before returning to the Department of Education on 13 March 2006.

Following her permanent appointment on 18 December 2006, she continued to serve in the CTA and was promoted to Deputy Secretary on 9 July 2012. She was subsequently transferred to the Department of Home on 14 December 2012.

On 3 May 2019, she was promoted to Joint Secretary and was assigned to the History Documentation and Interim Placement Section under the Kashag, now known as the History Classification and Interim Placement Section.

She subsequently served in the Tibet Policy Institute, the Department of Home, and the Department of Health. While serving in the Department of Health, she was promoted to Additional Secretary on 15 June 2023.

On 9 July 2026, she was transferred to the Election Commission and was subsequently appointed as its Acting Secretary.

–Report filed by Election Commission, CTA

]]> https://tibet.net/sikyong-penpa-tsering-proclaims-observance-of-tibetan-national-identity-preservation-week-amid-beijing-crackdown/ Wed, 23 Sep 2026 05:47:21 +0000 https://tibet.net/?p=276847

Dharamshala: This morning, Sikyong Penpa Tsering of the Central Tibetan Administration (CTA), at a press meet, officially proclaimed the annual observance of “Tibetan National Identity Preservation Week”, to be observed from the fourth Wednesday of September through the following Wednesday.

The proclamation formally launches a global campaign to confront and counter the various methods and systematic policies implemented by the Chinese Communist Government to eradicate Tibetan identity, particularly its recently enacted so-called “Law on Promoting Ethnic Unity and Progress,” which, under the guise of law, further intensifies the assimilation and eradication of national identities.

A Proclamation on the Observance of Tibetan National Identity Preservation Week

By resolution approved at the 11th session of the 17th Tibetan Parliament-in-Exile designating the fourth week of every September as “Tibetan National Identity Preservation Week”, I hereby proclaim the commencement of this observance effective 23 September 2026. Tibetan National Identity Preservation Week will be observed annually, from the fourth Wednesday of September through the following Wednesday.

The proclamation formally launches a global campaign to confront and counter the Chinese Communist Government’s implementation of various methods and systematic policies aimed at eradicating Tibetan identity—specifically, its recently implemented so-called “Law on Promoting Ethnic Unity and Progress,” which escalate eradication of nationalities under the guise of law. Our campaign must effectively counter the Chinese Communist Government’s observance of the so-called “Ethnic Unity and Progress Propaganda Week,” during which the state organs are directed to execute various forms of state-sponsored assimilation propaganda and re-education campaigns.

The contents and the serious threats posed by the Chinese Communist government’s so-called law have been extensively detailed across key forums and appeals, including:

• The preamble of the resolution adopted during the First Session of the 18th Tibetan Parliament-in-Exile;
• The official statement of the Kashag (Cabinet) on the auspicious occasion of the Birthday celebration of His Holiness the Dalai Lama;

• The official statement on Tibetan Democracy Day;
• The urgent diplomatic appeal dispatched by the Sikyong to foreign governments in June 2026;
• The Kashag’s statement delivered at the 49th-day memorial service for the late martyr Lobga Rangzen; and
• Comprehensive short video awareness campaigns.

On the global stage, governments—including those of the United States, Germany, Belgium, Canada, the United Kingdom, Australia, the Czech Republic, Japan, and the European Union— along with the eight UN Special Rapporteurs and UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Türk, have issued official statements declaring that the Chinese Communist government’s so-called law violates international law, serves as a tool for forced assimilation, and poses a risk of transnational repression.

The United States Congress, the European Union, and the Parliament of the Czech Republic have adopted resolutions confronting this so-called law. In addition, members of Parliament in over twenty free countries have expressed grave concern and strong opposition, while dozens of international human rights organisations and research institutions have released articles and reports exposing the grave dangers of this so-called law in the eradication of nationalities. We take this opportunity to express our heartfelt gratitude to all our international supporters, and we call for sustained, resolute action against the measures of the Chinese government that run against the progress of human society.

On 27 December 2025, the Chinese Communist Government revised the so-called “Law on the National Commonly Used Language and Script,” which mandates Chinese as the primary medium of instruction from pre-school through university, as well as the primary language used in all government offices and public gathering places, while enforcing an annual national propaganda week to promote Mandarin dominance.

I call upon all Tibetan individuals, families, schools, community associations, activists, and Tibet supporters—under the leadership of the respective Representatives of the Offices of Tibet and Tibetan Settlement Officers—to unite in solidarity with the Tibetans inside Tibet with unyielding dedication and fulfil the responsibilities and activities set forth in the public announcement regarding the observance of the “Tibetan National Identity Preservation Week” issued by the Kashag on 21 August 2026.

Today, I am proud to announce the launch of the Principles and Guidelines for the Preservation of the Tibetan Language, recently adopted by the Kashag. To help the public better understand and apply these guidelines, an awareness video will be released shortly. I urge every Tibetan to take ownership of this vital cause and actively fulfil the responsibilities outlined in the guidelines.

I appeal to our youth in particular not to view the observance of the “Tibetan National Identity Preservation Week” as a temporary campaign to be observed for just one week, but as an enduring pledge, and to remember your responsibility as representatives of over seven million Tibetans inside Tibet. I urge you to unite your strength in the struggle for the just cause of Tibet with an unwavering commitment to preserving our Tibetan national identity, and cultivate the courage to become Tibetans who lead on the path of non-violence and compassion, and are capable of taking responsibility for the greater welfare of the world in accordance with the vision of His Holiness the Dalai Lama.

Penpa Tsering
Sikyong

23 September 2026

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Principles and Guidelines for the Preservation of Tibetan Language

“If Tibetans neglect treasures such as the Tibetan language—which uniquely defines our distinct national identity—and if educated leaders fail to guide the youth, who in turn ignore their elders’ warnings about irreparable loss, our language risks extinction. If Tibetans across China, India, Nepal, and Western countries prioritise Chinese, Hindi, Nepali, and English solely for temporary survival, relying on foreign languages to speak among themselves, it would be both tragic and embarrassing. Therefore, I appeal to every Tibetan to take personal responsibility and make dedicated efforts to cherish and preserve our Tibetan religion, culture, and language.”– An excerpt from His Holiness the Dalai Lama’s message delivered on 11 March 2026.

1. Preface

The Tibetan language is the backbone of Tibetan culture and history and a mirror of the Tibetan people’s unique identity and traditions. It is the primary medium for expressing the Five Major Sciences—arts, medicine, grammar, epistemology, and Buddhist philosophy—and the Five Minor Sciences—poetry, lexicography, prosody, drama, and astrology. It is also a vast treasury for passing down Tibet’s history, politics, economy, military, society, and geography to future generations. It serves as a vital core for safeguarding social unity, collective rights, and the capacity to self-govern.

According to research by modern historians and linguists, the Tibetan script was created in the 7th century, modelled after the Gupta or Brahmi scripts prevalent in Northern India. With a history spanning over 1,300 years, it is recognised as one of the world’s ancient languages with uninterrupted use.

The largest and most complete collections of Buddha’s teachings, Buddhist philosophy, epistemology, and psychology transmitted from India are found in the Tibetan language. Enriched by tens of thousands of volumes of treatises and commentaries, it has become a vital treasury housing crucial components of ancient Indian wisdom.

Studying the Tibetan language helps preserve and promote Tibet’s unique cultural heritage, benefiting all sentient beings. In line with the vision of His Holiness the Dalai Lama, it helps us nurture individuals who can guide others along the path of non-violence and compassion and shoulder responsibility for the greater good of this world.

According to research by UNESCO, UNICEF, and numerous internationally renowned research institutions, implementing mother-tongue education during at least the lower primary school years has been shown to boost students’ self-confidence, foster awareness, and build a solid foundation for learning other languages. It has also proven to significantly enhance cognitive skills, classroom engagement, and overall academic performance. Findings show the method yields clear advantages over forcibly instructing students in a foreign language.

The Chinese Communist government has placed nearly one million Tibetan children in residential schools in Tibet, shifting the medium of instruction to Chinese. It has imposed Chinese-language education in preschools and restricted the use of the Tibetan language in administrative offices. Furthermore, by introducing legal tools under the so-called ‘Law on Promoting Ethnic Unity and Progress,’ it has intensified policies aimed at identity eradication.

Speaking Chinese has become increasingly common in homes in villages and towns in Tibet today, making communication breakdowns between grandparents and grandchildren a widespread concern. This reflects a central aim of the Chinese Communist government’s policy, placing this generation at risk of losing their distinct Tibetan identity.

Within the Tibetan exile community, the rapid emigration to Western countries has outpaced the setup of Tibetan-medium preschools, while birth rates across India, Nepal, and Bhutan continue to decline. Strengthening practical strategies for studying and using the Tibetan language—both inside Tibet and in exile—has therefore become an urgent policy priority focused on education and everyday use.

2. Responsibilities Concerning Learning and Usage of Tibetan Language

a) Responsibilities of Families: Building the Foundation

The cornerstone of the Tibetan language’s sustainability is maintaining uninterrupted transmission of the mother tongue across generations. To do so, parents must embrace their role as a child’s first teacher—teaching their mother tongue from early childhood to ensure the new generation continues to speak Tibetan. To bring this about, each family must;

1.  Establish a home rule of speaking exclusively in Tibetan during family gatherings, striving to speak pure Tibetan without mixing foreign words whenever Tibetans interact.
2.  Tell their children Tibetan folktales, history, and culturally relevant stories to foster interest in and affection for the language.
3.  Create an engaging learning environment by using Tibetan-language children’s stories, films, animations, and nursery rhymes.
4.  Observe traditional Tibetan festivals to instil religious practices, culture, and customs and traditions in children.
5.  Participate in community cultural and artistic gatherings to expand opportunities for young generations to use the language in social settings. Such practices are doable and essential duty for every household.

b) Responsibilities of Schools: Ensuring Proficiency in the Tibetan Language

1. Maintain the policy of making Tibetan language the primary official language of schools, except where foreign languages are specifically required, so that school practice clearly serves Tibetan language preservation.
2. Build a firm foundation to enable children to think and express themselves in their mother tongue during the golden period of cognition; focus on teaching in the mother tongue at the preschool level.
3. Tibetan shall serve as the primary medium of instruction through the primary level, with all middle school textbooks in Tibetan, while secondary languages are introduced contextually as appropriate.
4. Organise regular debate and public speaking contests, calligraphy competitions, essay contests, art and drama performances, and poetry recitations within and between schools to foster a vibrant Tibetan language environment.
5. Create opportunities for philosophy teachers to introduce students to Buddhism, Buddhist logic, and traditional cultural studies.
6. Invite scholars in Tibetan language, culture, and arts to inspire students and unlock their latent talents.

c) Responsibilities of the Community: Creating an Ideal Environment for Students to Study and Use the Tibetan Language 

1. Establish dedicated Tibetan language classes on weekends and during academic holidays, tailored for students attending non-Tibetan schools.
2. Provide teachers with modern pedagogical training and expert guidance to deliver high-quality instruction in reading, writing, listening, and speaking for students learning Tibetan as a second language.
3. Organise dedicated language immersion programs in areas with significant Tibetan populations, pairing Tibetan children who speak Tibetan as a second language with elders proficient in pure Tibetan for designated periods of language study.
4. Provide diverse educational resources for students by creating conditions where activities extend beyond formal classroom instruction, ensuring breaks, entertainment, and recreational play are conducted entirely in Tibetan.
5. Display Tibetan as the primary language on signboards, street signs, public announcements, and in community spaces in settlements and Tibetan residential areas.
6. Encourage speaking pure Tibetan and learning Tibetan song lyrics during gatherings, such as circle dances (Gorshey), in alignment with White Wednesday (Lhakar) observances.
7. Encourage Tibetan social media users to use Tibetan as the primary language in their posts and account handles.
8. Encourage social media influencers to prioritise speaking pure Tibetan as well as write in Tibetan.
9. Ensure Tibetan language is featured prominently on backdrops and banners for sports events and cultural nights, using Tibetan as the primary language for hosting events.
10. Encourage Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs) to launch effective campaigns supporting Tibetan language study and usage.

d) Responsibilities of the Department of Education, CTA: Ensuring Language Mastery and Nurturing Capable Individuals

1. Based on the benchmark of ensuring independent proficiency in the Tibetan language upon completion of basic education, the Department shall structure textbook compilation and curriculum scheduling accordingly, while monitoring, evaluating, and providing encouragement to ensure full, ongoing implementation across all educational systems in support of Tibetan language preservation.
2. Develop comprehensive implementation plans to provide higher education scholarships, dedicated academic seats, and competitive teacher remuneration to nurture teachers capable of instructing secondary school subjects in the Tibetan language.
3. Through standardised research, introduce a curriculum for teaching dialectics and logic (Riglam) at the upper primary or middle school level. Provide training for teachers to enable the instruction of other academic subjects through dialectical methods.
4. Develop interactive multimedia educational tools and digital learning software that reflect curriculum content in contemporary real-world contexts, rather than relying solely on teacher-led instruction.
5. Create Tibetan language learning opportunities for students residing in university hostels.
6. Provide learning support and facilities for Tibetan students dispersed across various higher education institutions.
7. Formally recognise and support higher education institutions that offer Tibetan language courses.
8. Provide special scholarship facilities to nurture individuals specialising in traditional Tibetan fields of knowledge whether they are enrolled in formal programs or informal ones.
9. Plan and organise annual regional student competitions dedicated to preserving the Tibetan language.
10. Formulate and standardise modern social science and natural science terminology aligned with Tibetan grammar and linguistic conventions and ensure its widespread adoption.
11. Support research community workforce needs and provide career counselling to students entering higher education accordingly.
12. Offer recognition and assistance to individuals and organisations actively promoting effective Tibetan language learning and usage programs.

e) Official policy of the Central Tibetan Administration (CTA)

1. Sustain the continued implementation of the Basic Education Policy for Tibetans in Exile.
2. Uphold Tibetan as the official language of the Central Tibetan Administration. Strengthen measures to prioritise Tibetan in official correspondence, policy documents, public notifications, and related materials.
3. Encourage non-governmental organisations and civil society bodies to actively use Tibetan in their operations.
4. Support higher education institutions that teach in Tibetan and incentivise the development of experts in Tibetan culture wherever possible.
5. Support the establishment of specialised schools for Tibetan children residing in Western countries.
6. Assist programs offering summer camps and online courses focused on Tibetan language, religion, and culture.
7. Continue to provide equal basic education facilities and resources for students from the Himalayan region as per the guidance of His Holiness the Dalai Lama.
8. Establish expert committees to assist with recognition awards for writers, translators, educators, activists, and parents who make outstanding contributions to the preservation and promotion of the Tibetan language.
9. Develop a standardised, comprehensive Tibetan language portal showcasing the Ten Traditional Sciences, culture, and customs of Tibet.
10. Lead and encourage measures to expand the use of the Tibetan language across modern media and digital technologies, while supporting intelligent software tools—including Tibetan input methods, machine translation, speech recognition, Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Optical Character Recognition (OCR)—to improve access to Tibetan language use.

f) Policy Implementation and Conclusion

A Tibetan Language Preservation Committee comprising three to five experts with deep knowledge and experience in Tibetan religion, culture, education, and language will be established. The Committee will publish an annual report evaluating the implementation outcomes of this language policy in collaboration with the Education Council of the Department of Education, Central Tibetan Administration

Whether the Chinese Communist government’s policy of restricting Tibetan language study and usage achieves its intended outcomes in a specific period depends on how effectively Tibetans inside and outside Tibet respond to and counter these plans, and how strongly the international community supports our just cause. Therefore, every individual Tibetan must recognise the inherent value of the Tibetan language, take active responsibility for its preservation, and amplify the Tibetan people’s truthful voice across the international arena.

 The Kashag

23 September, 2026.

Dharamshala: A five-volume book series documenting the monastic history of the three Tibetan regions of Latoe Lho, Latoe Jang, and Ngari, titled Toe Yigtsang Chenmo, was launched in Dharamshala on 20 September 2026.

The launch ceremony was attended by Chief Guest Speaker Dolma Tsering Teykhang of the Tibetan Parliament-in-Exile and Special Guest Kasur Dongchung Ngodup, along with secretaries from the Office of His Holiness the Dalai Lama, representatives of various NGOs, Tibetan writers, historians, academics, and other distinguished guests.

Authored by Lhakhang Lobsang Choedak, the five-volume series provides a comprehensive account of the monastic heritage and history of the three regions, documenting their religious, cultural, and historical significance for future generations.

Addressing the gathering, Speaker Dolma Tsering Teykhang applauded the author and all those who contributed to the successful publication of the historical series. Highlighting her personal connection to the region, she encouraged those present to study the book and underscored the importance of preserving and documenting Tibetan history and heritage.

The Speaker said the publication comes at a critical time, as she described the People’s Republic of China as seeking to weaken Tibetan cultural and national identity through legislation and policies. Highlighting the importance of preserving historical records, she referred to His Holiness the Dalai Lama’s advice on producing more historical materials based on facts so that future generations can learn about Tibet’s history and counter what she described as false narratives promoted by the People’s Republic of China.

She particularly referred to the PRC’s so-called “Ethnic Unity and Progress Law,” which she said aims to undermine Tibetan cultural, religious, and linguistic heritage and identity.

“Tibetan religious records are vastly available,” the Speaker said, while noting that “records on Tibetan society and way of life are very limited.”

She stressed the importance of documenting all aspects of Tibetan history and traditional ways of life, including traditional farming practices, marriage customs, and other aspects of Tibetan society. She called for oral histories to be recorded from older generations of Tibetans who have first-hand experience of life in Tibet before the Chinese occupation, as well as their experiences of establishing an administration and rebuilding their lives in exile under the guidance and blessings of His Holiness the Dalai Lama.

– Report filed by Tibetan Parliamentary Secretariat