Bengaluru: The journey of CBSE affiliation for Gaden Shartse Thoesam Norling Monastery School (GSTNMS) commenced on 19 March 2023. Between the corridors of administrative procedures at Taluk, District, Commissionerate, departments of the State Government, and offices of the CBSE Headquarters, the school finally witnessed the visitation of Inspection Committee Members, including Sh. Rakesh Kumar Goyal, Principal of PM Shri Kendriya Vidyalaya, Dharwad, and Smt. Dipti Ingley, Principal of Karnataka Lingayat Education School, Belgaum.

Albeit with a few follow-up observations, the members were satisfied with the approval of mandatory documents and the physical existence of the school.

Building on this inspectional visit, GSTNMS was extended an invitation to visit the aforesaid schools in Belgaum and Dharwad. In pursuit of building more relationships and acquiring an exchange of educational values, coinciding with the celebration of the 90th Birthday Anniversary of His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama, a delegation comprising Jigmey Tsultrim, CRO South Zone; Rinchen Wangmo, Tibetan Settlement Officer, Doeguling Tibetan Settlement; Geshe Lobsang Tsering, Principal of Gaden Shartse Thoesam Norling Monastic School; Norbu Tsering, Headmaster of GSTNMS; Namgyal Yarphel, Principal of Sambhota Tibetan Schools Administration, Mundgod; and Tenzin Thakpo, Conservationist, Reimagining Doeguling Tibetan Settlement, visited PM Shri Kendriya Vidyalaya at Dharwad.

The delegation was warmly received by Dr. Rakesh Kumar Goyal, Principal of Kendriya Vidyalaya Dharwad (one of the Members of the Inspection Committee assigned by CBSE), along with his faculty and staff. The visit commenced with a cordial welcome and a ceremonial lamp lighting, symbolising the pursuit of knowledge and success.

Delegates toured the school premises and observed various facilities, gaining insights into the operational and management practices of Kendriya Vidyalaya. A highlight of the visit was witnessing the student captain election process, which showcased democratic engagement and leadership development among students.

Each delegate shared valuable perspectives and stories: Rinchen Wangmo introduced the cultural and social fabric of Doeguling Tibetan Settlement, emphasising its people and heritage. Namgyal Yarphel delivered an inspiring message on academic commitment and the importance of voicing concerns against injustice. Geshe Lobsang Tsering recounted his personal journey from Tibet to India, reflecting on the resilience and challenges faced during displacement. Norbu Tsering narrated the evolution of Gaden Shartse School, from its humble beginnings to its current aspirations for CBSE affiliation, and Tenzin Thakpo engaged students on the critical issue of water conservation, urging mindful usage and environmental responsibility.

The visit concluded with a meaningful exchange of souvenirs between the CRO-led team and Kendriya Vidyalaya Dharwad, symbolising mutual respect and collaboration. CRO Jigmey Tsultrim extended heartfelt thanks to Dr. Rakesh Kumar Goyal and his team for their generous hospitality and enriching engagement.

The visit fostered a productive dialogue between educational and community leaders, strengthening inter-institutional ties and promoting shared values of sustainability, education, and cultural understanding.

-Report filed by Chief Representative Office, South Zone