Canberra: On 5 November 2025, the Canberra Weekend Thonmi Tibetan Language and Culture School celebrated Tibetan Teachers’ Day with an event attended by Representative Karma Singey, Former Representatives and Executive members of the Canberra Tibetan Community Association.

The celebration began with prayers for the long life of Professor Samdhong Rinpoche, the former Kalon Tripa, whose birthday has been designated as Tibetan Teachers’ Day following a resolution passed at the 8th Tibetan General Conference on Education.

Yugyal, President of the Canberra Tibetan Association, delivered the opening remarks, introducing the significance of the occasion. He was followed by Lhadar, who spoke on behalf of the parents. He underscored the importance of learning the Tibetan language and expressed concern over the Chinese government’s assimilationist policies, which threaten the survival of the Tibetan language and culture in Tibet.

Representative Karma Singey read out the Education Kalon’s message for the occasion and urged teachers, parents, and community members to take greater responsibility in preserving their linguistic and cultural heritage. He highlighted the growing concerns about state-run boarding schools in Tibet, noting how they contribute to the erosion of Tibetan language, culture, and identity under Chinese rule. He warned that the continuation of such colonial-style boarding schools could have dire consequences for Tibet’s cultural survival.

The event concluded with the presentation of Khatags as tokens of appreciation to the teachers, followed by the distribution of cakes and sweets to students and participants.

-Report filed by Office of Tibet, Canberra