Leh: The 5th edition of the Ethical & Educational Exchange Programme (August 25–31, 2025) was inaugurated today at Shachukul Monastery. This initiative continues the vision of bridging traditional aspects of monastic and Ladakhi culture with modern innovations in pedagogy and scientific education.
Previous editions of the programme were held at Thiksay in 2021, Shachukul in 2022, Disket in 2023, and again at Thiksay in 2024. Over the past four editions, various dimensions of monastic and modern curricula were explored and implemented through structured modules. The outcomes have been carefully studied to lay the foundation for a holistic new curriculum framework that specifically addresses the needs and challenges of the Ladakh region.
The week-long 5th edition brings together over 40 young monastics and 15 resource persons from across India. The focus areas include:
• Integration of traditional wellness practices
• Revival of ancient cultural wisdom
• Creative and art-based learning approaches
• Cultivating sensitivity towards Ladakh’s contemporary challenges
The event was inaugurated by Honourable Councillor Konchok Stanzin in the presence of eminent dignitaries, including:
• Venerable Konchok Gyltsen, Principal Architect of Shachukul Gonpa
• Geshe Kalsang Tashi of Thiksey Monastery
• Kachen Lobzang Chamba of Disket Monastery
• Jigmet Dorjay, Headmaster, Shachukul Gonpa School
• Resource persons: Kachen Lobzang Tamchos, Harsha Tsering Nagaraju, Vijay Nadig, Roshini, and Ankita
This edition is deeply inspired and blessed by the environmental and ethical sensibilities of His Holiness Drikung Kyabgon Chetsang Rinpoche, the rich Nalanda tradition emphasis of His Holiness the Dalai Lama, and the commitment to monastic and modern education by His Eminence Thiksey Rinpoche.
Through a week of collaborative sessions, the programme aims to merge traditional wisdom with creative methodologies and modern wellness practices. The ultimate objective is to generate meaningful content for a new Ladakhi school curriculum that reflects the region’s unique heritage while addressing present-day realities.
