25/06/2026
Cultural identity brings a sense of belonging but how do you do that as a Tibetan refugee student studying in an English medium school in India? That's exactly the gap our current grade 12 student Rinchen Khando set out to address in her life. During her one month summer break, Khando enrolled in a two week long Cultural Immersion Program which aimed to bring Tibetan culture closer to Tibetan children. This is especially helpful for Tibetan students who are enrolled in non-Tibetan schools and do not get exposed to their language and culture on a daily basis.
Khando says, "I felt the need to join this program because it helps students who are enrolled in English-medium schools where no Tibetan language or culture is taught. As part of the program, we visited the Central Tibetan Administration office, the studio where they shoot Tibetan news — popularly known as Tibet TV — and the famous museum nearby that preserves traditional arts and crafts. What struck me most were the audio and video clips they have kept which show the history of Tibet's invasion and people's struggle for freedom. While watching this, I couldn't hold back my tears. It might sound funny to cry at a museum, but that feeling was so strong, and it motivated me deeply to do something for the people who tried to preserve our culture. My decision to join this program was the best decision I have ever made. Knowing at least the basics of the Tibetan language and what happened to Tibet is important. We are the 4th generation of Tibetans living in exile who have been able to maintain our heritage. I learned a lot, and I feel the need to know more. This program not only made me feel closer to my culture but also helped me realize what I want to do in life. I suggest every Tibetan student join this program — not just to know about Tibet, but to find themselves."
We are so happy that our students like Khando are able to enroll in opportunities like this immersion program. At Pestalozzi many of our students come from refugee communities and our goal is to support them in their journey of becoming empathetic leaders who will represent their communities.
