Dharamshala: On the final day, 29 August 2025, of his official visits around Dharamshala, Sikyong Penpa Tsering addressed the students and faculty of Sarah College for Higher Tibetan Studies in the morning and the Tibetan residents of Dharamshala in the afternoon.

Upon arrival at the college, Sikyong was warmly received by Director Samten Gyatso of the Institute of Buddhist Dialectics (IBD) and Sarah College, along with students and staff.

In his keynote address, Sikyong emphasised to students the importance of understanding Tibet’s historical independence and encouraged them to consult reliable sources and books on Tibet before China’s occupation. Expanding on Tibet’s geo-strategic and environmental significance as the “Water Tower of Asia,” Sikyong stated that safeguarding Tibet is not only vital for Tibetans but also for the global environment.

Sikyong then elaborated on the Middle Way Approach as the most pragmatic and mutually beneficial solution to the Sino-Tibet conflict, stressing that the approach, endorsed by His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama, seeks genuine autonomy within the framework of the People’s Republic of China while ensuring the preservation of Tibet’s identity, culture, and environment.

Sikyong further urged students and staff to read the 16th Kashag’s publication Securing Tibet’s Future, which outlines the twin missions of the present administration: achieving a peaceful resolution to the Sino-Tibet conflict and addressing the needs of Tibetans in exile.

In the afternoon, Sikyong continued his itinerary with visits to the Dharamshala Regional Tibetan Freedom Movement, the Local Tibetan Assembly (LTA) office, the Tibetan Settlement Office (TSO), and the Tibetan paper recycling factory.

During his public address at the Settlement Office’s conference hall, Sikyong took the opportunity to commend local administrators for their dedicated service and tireless efforts toward the welfare of the people.

Reflecting on the accomplishments of the current Kashag since assuming office, Sikyong emphasised ongoing efforts to strengthen the administration of Tibetan institutions and enhance social welfare programmes. On political matters, he spoke about the establishment of the Strategic Planning Committee during the 16th Kashag. This committee, Sikyong explained, is tasked not only with advancing the Tibet-China dialogue but also with conducting research on core Tibetan issues. The committee convenes weekly to deliberate on political strategies.

Sikyong then outlined key accomplishments of the departments of the Central Tibetan Administration under the 16th Kashag, beginning with the Department of Religion and Culture. He highlighted its flagship project—the creation of a digital library preserving the Kangyur, Tengyur, and texts from various Buddhist traditions—aimed at safeguarding the Buddha’s teachings for future generations. He also introduced Neykor, a new mobile app launched during the 15th Tibetan Religious Conference, which provides access to information about Tibetan monasteries and their key shrines.

Turning to community development, Sikyong emphasised the pivotal role of the Department of Home in revitalising Tibetan compact communities, which continue to serve as cornerstones of Tibetan identity in exile.

Sikyong also briefed the audience on the expansion of scholarships and other opportunities provided to students over the past years. In addition, he credited the Department of Security for its dedicated efforts to counter defamation and misleading criticisms—fueled by the CPC’s propaganda—against His Holiness the Dalai Lama in recent years.

Commending the work of the Department of Information and International Relations, Sikyong acknowledged the advocacy efforts of overseas offices and the rising involvement of Tibetan youth. Lastly, he praised the Department of Health for delivering community healthcare at a level that rivals many sovereign nations, citing recent infrastructure developments such as health centres and elder care facilities.

Tibetan Settlement Officer Kunchok Migmar also briefed the gathering on the undertakings of his office prior to Sikyong’s address.