Individual life story before E.S. Tibet print story

January 27, 2012

Educational Support Tibet, India

After catnapping on the overnight bus from Delhi, I woke as the sun was beginning to rise to a magnificent view of a fast flowing river, mountains and green, green valleys. It was my first visit to the Indian State of Hamachal Pradesh. As the bus coasted along, I wondered what my time as a volunteer at E.S. Tibet in Dharamshala would bring.

An hour or so later, I was at the gates of the school and warmly welcomed by the School Manager, Choephel. Tibetan flags fluttering in the breeze had an immediate impact and I knew I was going to enjoy this unique experience. After an orientation tour of the school, I met the other volunteers Arnrid and Karmo who were here like I was, to teach English to 23 Tibetan students.

I chose to be in the middle of three adjoining, small outer rooms. A chair, bed and desk but best of all is the beautiful view of the Himachal mountains and overlooking the neighbours' gardens. After a few inexpensive purchases including a useful bucket and a floor mat, a couple of extra nails to hang my clothes and my room felt like home.

Meals are prepared on a roster system by the students and special occasions call for the Tibetan momo with everyone involved making and rolling the dough, preparing the vegetables, mincing meat, filling the momo cases and then cooking them in huge steamers. My own skill at filling improved with each momo after a very poor initial attempt. It is quite a feast and very enjoyable to watch the students have so much pleasure preparing the food as a team and the fun eating momo together.

With nine females and fourteen males, aged from 18 years to mid 30's, the students have their own journey to tell with many having crossed the mountains in winter from Tibet to arrive at the Tibetan Reception Centre in Nepal. A common reason for having left Tibet is to seek and gain an education to increase their prospects of obtaining a worthy job and future in their country. It is extremely humbling to listen to their individual life story before E.S. Tibet and how they each value the opportunity to learn.

During a recent conversation class, the students were given topics to discuss. An individual response when asked if the student had any suggestions about changing one thing at E.S. Tibet, was to increase the number of students so more young Tibetans could have the same opportunity to attend the school. Over 100 Tibetan students sat for the entrance exam and although all were proficient at their own respective level of English, due to number restraints, only 23 could be accepted.

The students reside at the school for two years and sit for Cambridge English Tests. From what I have seen and heard, each student is enthusiastic in both the class room and when studying on their own. Classes include computer studies with Karma who brings his vast knowledge and sense of fun to the school. English only is spoken during the week but students may use Tibetan on the weekends or outside the front gates. The occasional struggle to find the 'right word' brings a lot of laughter and fun to everyone. Just after dawn, I wake to the sound of birds chattering and students reading aloud to improve their English language skills.

Although the distance from Australia is great, with technology I am in constant contact with family and friends and feel very blessed to have this opportunity to volunteer at E.S. Tibet. To meet and listen to people who have struggled but have such a positive, endearing nature is an experience to be cherished. It is inspirational to meet healthy, positive, fine young adults who will shape the future of our world and help make a better life for us all.

By Carole

 

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