The Loden Foundation recently had the pleasure of hosting the teachers and students of Jhamtse Gatshel, a community-driven school renowned for its compassionate approach to education. Their visit aimed to exchange insights with the Loden team on sustainable practices, including waste management, plastic recycling, and ongoing efforts to achieve zero waste. The discussions also explored potential collaborations in hydroponic farming and beekeeping, which offer promising opportunities for sustainability and environmental stewardship.
Our team shared key initiatives from Loden’s Education Programme and the Loden Entrepreneurship Programme, highlighting projects focused on sustainable development. As part of their experiential learning, the Jhamtse Gatshel group met with Mr. Rikesh Gurung, Founder of Green Roads, and Mr. Karma Yonten, Founder of Greener Way, both of whom are pioneers in the waste management sector. The visit will also include engagements with Loden Entrepreneurs working in areas aligned with their interests.
About Jhamtse Gatshel
Jhamtse Gatshel, or “Garden of Compassion” in Tibetan, is a unique school and community founded in 2006 by former Buddhist monk Lobsang Phuntsok, nestled in the remote mountains of Arunachal Pradesh, near the Bhutanese border. The school’s mission is to provide a holistic education in a nurturing environment for children from underprivileged backgrounds. As a residential program, Jhamtse Gatshel not only focuses on academic excellence but also emphasizes emotional and social growth, grounded in Buddhist principles of compassion and mindfulness. The curriculum blends modern education with traditional wisdom, prioritizing local culture, languages, and environmental care. Students engage in diverse activities beyond academics, such as organic farming, arts, sports, and mindfulness, fostering resilience and responsibility. The school’s commitment to sustainability is reflected in its eco-friendly infrastructure, organic farming, and renewable energy initiatives. Internationally recognized through the documentary “Tashi and the Monk,” Jhamtse Gatshel exemplifies how compassion-driven education can create transformative impacts, inspiring positive change in communities.
