Bengaluru: On 21 July 2025, the Chief Representative Officer of the South Zone, the Principal of Loyola College, and a representative of the Dalai Lama Institute of Higher Education gathered at Loyola Degree College to strengthen ties and offer a space for academic discourse between the institutions.

The event began with words of felicitation by Loyola Degree College’s Principal, Dr. Fr. Alphonse Fernandes SJ, addressing the newly arrived first-year students of Loyola College.

Thereafter, the Chief Representative Officer delivered a speech, emphasising the importance of the programme in building trust for future relations and the exchange of educational values.

He also reflected on the challenges and hardships encountered by Tibetans during their early years in exile, as well as the continued suppression of Tibetans inside Tibet to this day. He underlined the importance of education, which has kindled hope in the lives of exiled Tibetans, and expressed that it should also guide every student’s journey. He encouraged students to use the available resources meaningfully and find purpose through education.

In his address, Principal Dr. Fr. Alphonse Fernandes highlighted the fundamental qualities required to achieve excellence in education and community service. He invited students to pledge their commitment to higher education not only for personal growth but also for the betterment of humanity. He also shared insights into the history and architectural design of Loyola Degree College, symbolising its depth, ideology, freedom, and pursuit of educational excellence.

Geshe Lharampa Nyima Wangchuk, representing the Dalai Lama Institute of Higher Education, blessed the occasion with a Buddhist ritual and sacred chanting. Meanwhile, Assistant Professor Lazarus Lepcha of Loyola Degree College spoke about the beginning of a new chapter of collaboration between the Chief Representative Office and colleges in the South. He remarked on the prospects for future academic exchange and shared platforms for discourse between institutions.

The event witnessed the participation of 300 students. The Chief Representative Officer and Geshe Nyima Wangchuk were presented with traditional attire and a sapling, symbolising the future growth of Loyola Degree College into expanded educational faculties.

–Report filed by CRO, South Zone