The Department of Education, Central Tibetan Administration (CTA), recently organised a five-day Leadership Programme for Tibetan students at TCV Selakui, Dehradun, from 22 to 26 September 2025. The event brought together 178 students from TCV Selakui, STS Herbertpur, and THF Rajpur, along with their counsellors and teacher escorts. The programme was designed for students of classes VII to IX to nurture leadership qualities through teamwork, creativity, and community spirit.

I found this initiative worth writing about because it highlights how leadership training at an early age can make a lasting difference in a student’s life. In the Tibetan education system, values like empathy, service, and responsibility are deeply rooted. By combining these with modern skill-building programmes, the Department of Education is shaping confident young individuals ready to contribute to their community. Understanding such educational models also reminds us how holistic learning—beyond textbooks—plays a major role in forming responsible citizens.

A Platform to Learn Leadership Through Action

The Leadership Programme at TCV Selakui was not just about lectures or theoretical sessions. It was designed to help students understand that leadership begins with self-awareness and teamwork. The Department of Education created a unique club-based learning structure where students could choose from diverse areas such as Innovation, Agriculture & Microgreens, Tourism & Culture, Sports, Entrepreneurship, Creative Writing, Music, and Art & Craft.

Through these clubs, students learned to plan, manage, and lead activities. For instance, the Innovation Club encouraged problem-solving and creativity, while the Agriculture & Microgreens Club taught students about sustainable farming practices. Similarly, the Entrepreneurship Club focused on teamwork and decision-making, and the Music and Art & Craft Clubs gave students a chance to express themselves artistically while collaborating with others.

Each club provided practical exposure, where students learned to communicate effectively, take initiative, and respect diverse ideas—essential traits of good leadership.

Encouraging Participation and Confidence

The opening ceremony of the event was graced by Tsultrim Kelsang, Principal of TCV Selakui, who attended as the Chief Guest, along with the school’s Headmaster. In his address, he appreciated the Department’s efforts to introduce such a meaningful initiative and motivated the students to participate with enthusiasm and curiosity.

Jamyang Wangyal, Head of the Counselling Section, welcomed the guests and participants and shared the purpose behind the programme. He explained that the training was specifically designed for middle school students so that leadership values could be developed at an age when children are open to learning and exploring.

This thoughtful approach ensured that students not only understood leadership as a concept but also experienced it in action. The sessions were interactive, encouraging every student to take small but confident steps towards becoming a responsible leader.

Building a Sense of Responsibility and Community

The programme also aimed to strengthen community values among students. Through group activities, discussions, and creative sessions, participants learned that leadership is not about control or authority, but about cooperation and empathy. The emphasis was on understanding one’s role in a group and contributing positively to common goals.

Many students shared how the experience helped them become more confident and communicative. Teachers and counsellors observed a visible change in how students approached teamwork, showing more patience, openness, and willingness to listen to others.

Such early exposure to leadership and collaboration helps shape a generation that values both individuality and collective growth.

Why Such Initiatives Matter

In today’s world, education is not just about academic success—it’s about shaping character and purpose. Programmes like this ensure that students develop emotional intelligence and social responsibility along with intellectual skills. For the Tibetan community, where the idea of service and compassion holds a central place, such initiatives help preserve these cultural values while preparing students to face modern challenges confidently.

Leadership programmes at the school level encourage young minds to question, innovate, and lead with empathy. They create an environment where children learn that every small act of responsibility contributes to a better society.