The 5th edition of the Ethical & Educational Exchange Programme (August 25–31, 2025) was inaugurated at Shachukul Monastery on August 25. The initiative seeks to bridge the traditional aspects of monastic and Ladakhi culture with modern innovations in pedagogy and scientific education.

Earlier editions were hosted at Thiksay (2021, 2024), Shachukul (2022), and Diskit (2023). Over the past four years, the programme has explored various dimensions of monastic and modern curricula through structured modules. Insights and outcomes from these sessions have contributed to the foundation of a holistic new curriculum framework tailored to the specific needs and challenges of Ladakh.

This year’s week-long edition brings together over 40 young monastics and 15 resource persons from across India. Key focus areas include the integration of traditional wellness practices, revival of ancient cultural wisdom, creative and art-based learning approaches, and cultivating sensitivity towards Ladakh’s contemporary social and environmental challenges.

The event was inaugurated by Councillor Konchok Stanzin in the presence of eminent dignitaries including Venerable Konchok Gyltsen, Principal Architect of Shachukul Monastery; Geshe Kalsang Tashi of Thiksey Monastery; Kachen Lobzang Chamba of Diskit Monastery; and Jigmet Dorjay, Headmaster of Shachukul Gonpa School.

Resource persons for the programme include Kachen Lobzang Tamchos, Harsha Tsering Nagaraju, Vijay Nadig, Roshini, and Ankita.

This edition draws deep inspiration from the environmental and ethical sensibilities of His Holiness Chetsang Rinpoche, the Nalanda tradition emphasis of His Holiness the Dalai Lama, and the commitment to monastic and modern education by His Eminence Thiksey Rinpoche.

Through a series of collaborative sessions, the programme aims to merge traditional wisdom with creative teaching methodologies and modern wellness practices. The ultimate objective is to generate meaningful content for a new Ladakhi school curriculum—one that reflects the region’s cultural heritage while addressing present-day realities.