Dharamshala: Addressing the inauguration of the 6th Students Leadership workshop this Saturday at Lower TCV, CTA President Dr Lobsang Sangay listed four qualities to be a great leader: aim for greatness, thirst for knowledge, work hard and develop perseverance.

“These are hallmarks of a good leader. They strive for excellence and see opportunity in every challenge. They do not get deterred by failures,” the Chief guest said.

The Department of Education is hosting more than 300 students from 31 Tibetan schools across India and Nepal for a weeklong Leadership workshop at Dharamshala.

Present at the inaugural ceremony were Kalon Dr Pema Yangchen, Department of Education, Secretary Karma Singey, Principal of Lower TCV, head of Education Council, Tsering Samdup, Head of the Traditional and Modern Education, Tenzin Dorjee and sections of DOE.

“Albert Einstein, one of the greatest genius and scientist, has said, “Genius is one percent talent and 99 percent hard work.” And it’s true,” said President Sangay.

He cited the extraordinary achievements of Jew people. “Although the total Jewish population comprises less than 0.2 per cent of the world’s population, they constitute 22.5 per cent of all Nobel laureates. As of 2017, Nobel Prizes have been awarded to 902 individuals, of whom 203 or 22.5 per cent were Jews.”

He added, ”A leader must also be able to think on one’s feet; tackle difficult situations and come out as a victor.”

Despite meeting with massive protest from Chinese students in his talk series at Universities in Toronto and South Africa, the President recounted how he tactfully continued with his talk and also invited the Chinese protesters to take part in the talk and ask questions.

He recalled exiting the venue of his talk in South Africa showing a victory symbol and a smile. “It is indeed a victory of my right to speak and express and it is a victory of their right to protest. This is exercising freedom and democracy. This would not be the case in China.”

Kalon Dr Pema Yangchen, Department of Education also addressed the students. She encouraged the students to inculcate the habit of reading books, particularly in the Tibetan language.

She also discussed the benefits of forming study groups. “Forming study groups is a very effective strategy for enhancing learning. In groups, you can discuss the confusing concepts. It is advantageous to seek support from other students and let them share their insight.”

Secretary Karma Singey delivered the vote of thanks.

The weeklong workshop will feature talks by CTA President, Education kalon, Speaker Pema Jungney, Ven Geshe Lhakdor, Director, LTWA, Secretary Sonam Norbu Dagpo, Department of Information and International Relations, Donkar Wangmo, Additional Secretary, DOE Scholarship, Head of Education Council, Researchers from TPI and others.