By Rigzin Wangchuk*
(TibetanReview.net, Dec 26, 2014) – Among the fairly numerous NGOs operating in Dharamshala, India, Tibet World is relatively new and its focus on adult education has made a significant impact on the Tibetan community it serves in a fairly short period of time, according to its director Mr. Yeshi Lhundup. He started the project on Jan 17, 2013 with just two students in his single-room home. The number of students increased rapidly over time, leading to the expansion of the project. On Oct 19, 2013, the Speaker of the Tibetan Parliament-in-Exile, Mr Penpa Tsering, inaugurated the Tibet World Office, with its several sections, at a function for its formal launch.
The project currently offers five language classes, namely English, German, French, Chinese and Tibetan. Besides, it also organizes occasional workshops in different kinds of skill, computer classes, handicraft trainings, and health talks.
The project relies mainly on foreign volunteers to teach the classes. Tibet World not only provides these volunteers an opportunity to offer a social service but also gives them an opportunity for intercultural experience and to know more about Tibet.
Tibet World relies mainly on donations, although it also runs a hostel, Yoga classes, folk dance shows, and a café for its sustenance.
Director Yeshi Lhundup says that so far 760 students have benefited from its classes with the help of a total of 250 volunteers from 31 countries.
The NGO held it functions for the winter closing of its adult education programs for this year on Dec 24 with a tea party and offering of ceremonial scarves to the volunteers.
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* Ms. Rigzin Wangchuk is a student of B.A. in Journalism at the Madras Christian College (MCC), India, and is currently on internship at the Tibetan Review, Delhi.