Office of Tibet, London Hosts Workshop for Tibetan University Students.

London, 12 April 2025: The Office of Tibet, London, in collaboration with the UK V-TAG, hosted a day-long workshop for Tibetan university students at Tibet House on Saturday. The first in a two-part program, the workshop aimed to deepen students’ understanding of Tibet’s cause and empower them to organise Tibet-related events at their universities, especially in light of the upcoming Year of Compassion.

Ten Tibetan students, including one who travelled from Bristol, participated in the interactive sessions. In his welcome address, Tenzin Kunga, Secretary of the Office of Tibet, outlined the purpose of the initiative and gave a presentation on the democratic structure of the Central Tibetan Administration and the global advocacy work conducted through the Offices of Tibet.

The keynote speaker, Dr. Tsering Topgyal, Lecturer in International Relations at the University of Birmingham, offered practical advice on maximising the university experience in support of the Tibetan cause. Dr. Tara Lhamo, National Coordinator of UK V-TAG, introduced two student projects: one involving a creative engagement with “Voice for the Voiceless,” a new book by His Holiness the Dalai Lama, and another inviting students to draft handwritten birthday wishes for His Holiness’s upcoming 90th birthday.

Tenzin Rabga Tashi, Campaigns Officer at Free Tibet, discussed ongoing campaigns and effective strategies for activism. Namgyal Samuels, Youth Coordinator of the Tibetan Community in Britain, shared his experience balancing academic life with community service and encouraged others to get involved.

The sessions were highly interactive, with students actively engaging in discussions and contributing ideas. A special goody bag prize was awarded to a lucky participant drawn by lot, adding a fun twist to the day’s events.

Participants enjoyed a lunch break in nearby Regent’s Park, taking advantage of the sunny weather to build connections and camaraderie. The workshop concluded with a commitment from the Office of Tibet to arrange a student visit to the UK Parliament soon.

The second phase of the workshop is scheduled to take place before the start of the next academic term in autumn.

-Report filed by Office of Tibet, London