Message of His Holiness the Dalai Lama on occasion of the 50th Founding Anniversary Celebration of CST Herbertpur, 7 February 2020:

“It gives me great pleasure to know that the Central School for Tibetans, Herbertpur, is celebrating its fiftieth anniversary this year. Over these 50 years, the school growth and achievements have been impressive, so I believe there is a great deal to celebrate.

“The Central School for Tibetans, Herbertpur, was among the first set up to cater to the need of Tibetans in exile. Thanks to the consistent dedication to the staff and teachers students who have attended the school have embodied the good qualities of both a tradition Tibetan and modern education. Many of those graduating from the school have gone to higher studies in India and abroad, enabling them to make a valuable contribution to the wider Tibetan community in exile. We are grateful to the Government of India for the steady encouragement and support that has made these achievements possible.

“Education is not only about provoking individuals with the means to make a living it also involves empowering them to make a positive contribution to the development of society. We human beings are naturally intelligent and when we are young, unencumbered by other obligations, we have some freedom and flexibility of thought and action. However, our natural freedom and intelligence will only become fruitful if they are proper guidance and encouragement. Therefore, I urge teacher that in addition to teaching textbook curriculum, they should also incorporate basic human values into their lessons too. This will have a profound, long term, beneficial impact on students and society.

“Education should help us use our intelligence to good effect. Since it’s important not to entertain unrealistic expectations, whatever situation you find yourself in, examine it from many different angles to understand what is actually feasible. Be realistic about what can be done and set about fulfilling it with confidence. If you can do that, you will be able to make meaningful contribution to both Tibetan society and the welfare of the world at large.

“I offer my greetings to past and present students and staff of then Central School for Tibetans, Herbertpur, on the occasion of this Golden Jubilee year. It is admirable that despite the school’s relatively small size down the years, its achievements have been significant. Congratulations!”