TCV DHARAMSHALA CANTT.
Summer School
OBJECTIVES:
Tibetan Children’s Village (TCV), Dharamshala Summer School program, with a duration of one and a half months from June 28 – August 09, 2024 aims to provide Tibetan children living abroad with an immersive learning experience in TCV campus.
It focuses on teaching the Tibetan language, culture, history, and Buddhist philosophy while fostering a strong sense of Tibetan identity and understanding of the Tibetan cause. By living within children’s big family during this period, the children gain first-hand experience through direct interaction with their peers and actively participate in cultural activities and community events. The program aims to preserve Tibetan heritage, strengthen the children’s connection to their culture, and empower them to become advocates for the Tibetan cause through awakening of true Tibetan spirit and understanding of Tibetan cause.
TCV SUMMER SCHOOL PROGRAM SCHEDULES-(2024)
REPORTING DATE: 28/June/2024
REPORT TO: Village Office, TCV Dharamshala Cantt.
REPORT TIME: 09:30 AM – 04:00 PM (Lunch: 12:30 PM–01:30PM)
ORIENTATION: 04:30 – 05:00 PM on 28/6/2024
VENUE: Deckyi Tsering Hall
PROGRAM START: 01/July/2024
PROGRAM END: 09/August/2024
DURATION: 1 and 1/2 months
PROGRAMMES
The objective of the summer school program is to provide Tibetan children living abroad with an opportunity to join Tibetan Children’s Village, Dharamshala in India and engage in comprehensive learning of the Tibetan language, culture, history, and Buddhist philosophy. By participating in this program, the children will have a first-hand experience of living within the Tibetan Children’s Village as a community, which will help strengthen their Tibetan spirit, identity, and understanding of the Tibetan
cause.
The summer school program aims to create an immersive learning environment where Tibetan children can engage with their heritage and gain a deep understanding of their language, culture, and history. Through language classes, cultural activities, and interactions with Tibetan teachers and peers, the children will develop proficiency in the Tibetan language and a strong connection to their cultural
roots.
Additionally, the program seeks to promote the understanding of Tibetan Buddhism and its philosophical teachings. By studying Buddhist philosophy and engaging in discussions and contemplative practices, the children will gain insights into the spiritual aspects of Tibetan heritage and develop a greater appreciation for its significance in Tibetan society.
Living in the children’s homes in school campus during the summer school program offers a unique opportunity for the children to experience the rich cultural traditions, customs and values firsthand. They will actively participate in community events, festivals, and daily life live experiences, fostering a sense of belonging and strengthening their connection to the Tibetan community.
Furthermore, the program aims to instill a sense of pride and responsibility in the children towards the Tibetan cause. By deepening their understanding of the historical and political challenges faced by Tibetans, they will become advocates and ambassadors for the Tibetan cause, both within their own communities abroad and in global contexts.
Overall, the summer school program plays a vital role in preserving Tibetan language, culture, history, and Buddhist philosophy among Tibetan children living abroad. It serves as a platform for them to connect with their heritage, strengthen their Tibetan identity, and contribute to the preservation and promotion of Tibetan culture and the Tibetan cause. These cultural activities and events in and around the campus not only provide the children with a deeper understanding of Tibetan culture but also create opportunities for them to interact with fellow Tibetans young and old, build friendships, and develop a sense of belonging within the Tibetan community.
I. TCV SUMMER SCHOOL PROGRAM HIGHLIGHT:
During the summer school program, the children participate in a variety of cultural activities and community events that help them engage with Tibetan traditions and immerse themselves in the Tibetan community.
The summer school program places a strong emphasis on learning the Tibetan language through their dedicated language classes where they learn to read, write, and speak Tibetan for both beginners and advanced groups. Through interactive lessons, language exercises, and immersive activities, the children develop their language skills and deepen their connection to Tibetan culture.
The children engage in educational sessions and discussions focused on Tibetan history and the current situation of Tibet and Tibetans. They learn about the rich historical legacy of Tibet, including its ancient civilization, Buddhist heritage, and contributions and gain insights into the challenges faced by Tibetans in Tibet and in the diaspora. These sessions foster a sense of awareness, empathy, and advocacy among the children, encouraging them to become informed and engaged global
citizens.
The children have the opportunity to celebrate and participate in Tibetan festivals such as His Holiness 14 th Dalai Lama’s birthday celebration, Mock Losar (Tibetan New Year) celebration, Saga Dawa (Buddha’s Enlightenment Day). They will engage in traditional rituals, meditation and music and dance performances associated with these festivals.
The children learn about the political structure, administration, and efforts undertaken by the CTA to represent and support the Tibetan diaspora. They will have opportunity to visit (Central Tibetan Administration) CTA discuss with officials and gain insights into the challenges and aspirations of the Tibetan people.
Summer School participants visit to museums provides a platform to display traditional artwork, historical artifacts, and contemporary Tibetan contributions in various fields. It offers an interactive learning experience and deepens the children’s understanding and appreciation of Tibetan heritage.
The opportunity to learn about SEE Learning (Social, Emotional, and Ethical Learning), the children develop essential life skills and cultivate positive values that contribute to personal well-being and social harmony.
The children learn various traditional Tibetan art forms, including painting, butter sculpture, wood carving, and Tibetan calligraphy. They get hands-on experience in creating their own artwork and understanding the cultural significance behind these artistic expressions.
The program includes workshops and daily classes on Tibetan music and dance. The children learn traditional Tibetan songs, instruments and Tibetan dance. They participate in group performances and showcase their talents.
The children have the opportunity to learn about and participate in traditional Tibetan cooking. They explore the unique flavours, ingredients, and cooking techniques of Tibetan cuisine, and have the chance to prepare and enjoy traditional Tibetan meals together under the guidance of village head cook.
The Summer School program also includes visits to Tibetan monasteries and temples in and around Dharamshala, where the children can observe and engage in religious rituals, learn about Buddhist practices, and interact with monks and nuns.
These visits provide insights into the spiritual and religious aspects of Tibetan culture. The Summer School students will also participate in community service activities that contribute to the welfare of the Tibetan community. They may engage in initiatives such as environmental conservation projects, volunteering services assisting in community development efforts. These community service activities not only allow the children to give back to the Tibetan community but also instil in them a sense of
social responsibility, empathy, and compassion.
The children will take part in activities such as tree planting, cleaning up public spaces, or participating in awareness campaigns to promote environmental sustainability and conservation.
The Summer School students’ engagement to visit elderly Tibetan old Age Homes to spend time with them, provide companionship, and assist with daily activities, bringing joy and support to the elderly members of the community.
The children will be also engaging in peer tutoring and buddy system in their respective children’s Homes to help younger Tibetan students with their studies especially reading story books. They can provide academic assistance, organize study groups, or conduct workshops to share their knowledge and skills.
They participate in health and hygiene awareness campaigns, promoting practices such as handwashing, sanitation, and healthy living. They may organize workshops or create educational materials to spread awareness within the community.
Eligibility Age:
The minimum age requirement is 10 years and the maximum age requirement is 17.
Accommodation:
The accommodation for the participants will be arranged in different children’s family homes. This arrangement is made to facilitate students to improve their spoken Tibetan language through daily interactions with their peers.
Rain Gear and other accessories:
Since the monsoon will be in full swing during that time, the parents are requested to include complete rain gear (raincoats/umbrella, boots) in their packing list. The parents are requested not to send any electronic gadgets with their child except for a simple cell phone which should be deposited with the home mother.
Dress Code:
Students are requested to bring decent dresses during the program. We will be observing “Lhakar” (White Wednesday) every Wednesday, so kindly bring at least one set of Traditional dresses. (Chuba)
Medical assistance:
TCV health centre will handle all the minor medical cases; however major medication and referral cost should be borne by the parents.
Documents to be attached along with the Application:
1. Guarantee letter from the parent/s with 2 Recent PP Photo of Applicant.
2. Registration by online
3. Authorization Letter from the Parent/s for the child/children to be taken for weekends and outings.
4. A copy of travel documents / Travel Itinerary with Copy of Medical Insurance, if any.
5. The passports should be deposited at TCV Office and it will be handed back at the time of leaving the school.
Travel Assistance:
If any of the parents have difficulty in reaching TCV, you can write to us for guidance and the Summer School Coordinator will help provide all necessary arrangements.
Parents will bear the expenses incurred in arranging these.
Program Contribution by Parents (PC)/Costs:
The total amount for a single child to attend the TCV Summer School Programme is US $ 500/- or Its equivalent amount. Kindly add an additional amount of US$100 for those needing travel assistance.
Summer School = US $ 500/-
Summer School + Travel = US $ 600/-
Parents are requested to send adequate pocket money with your child and maybe deposited at the office.
GETTING ADMISSION
All those parents in North America/Canada who are interested in enrolling their child/children to this summer school can contact:
Tenzin Nawa
Office of Tibet
1228 17th ST NW
Washington, DC 20036
Email:otdc@tibet.net
All the children from other countries can contact directly to
Tsultrim Dorjee
TCV Summer School Programme
Head Office, TCV School Dharamshala Cantt.
Distt. Kangra, H.P., 176216 INDIA
WhatsApp: (+91) 9418432321
summercamp@tcv.org.in
Summer School Registration Form (Download)
PARENT CONTRIBUTION (PC) /COSTS:
The total amount for a single child to attend the TCV Summer School Programme is US $ 500/- or equivalent amount. Kindly add an additional amount of US$ 100 for those needing travel assistance.
Summer School US $ 500
Summer School + Travel = US $ 600/-