Women who study can bring benefit to the country of Bhutan and serve sentient beings everywhere. Legally, nuns and lay women in Bhutan have equal rights. But because of traditional habits, women do not have much education. Because of this, they are less courageous and suffer from a lack of self-esteem. Although women seem to be stronger than men, a lack of education equals a lack of resolve. A courageous approach is necessary. Study and teachings will allow them to look directly at life, without hesitation. - Gangteng Tulku Rinpoche

Home   |  About Us   |  Education and Empowerment   |  History   |  Current Projects   |  Donation and Contact Information

Bhutan is a small high altitude country where 85% of the population survives on subsistence farming consisting of small fields and a few heads of cattle or yaks. Much of the country has little or no infrastructure such as roads, electricity, piped water etc. The girls and women who participate at Pema Choling are mainly from poor, illiterate farming and herding families with few available options.   As Bhutan adapts a cautious integration into the technological world of the 21st century, education becomes key to empowering women and girls to meet the challenges of their lives and their communities in a changing world.       The basic curriculum includes Dzongkha ( Bhutanese language), English, Writing, Math, Geography, History etc. for those who have not had the opportunity to learn. Beyond that, the nine year Buddhist Shedra program provides traditional Buddhist education to women for the first time in the history of the country.     Elderly women, or women who need support but do not wish to study formally are welcome to live at the institute.   Vocational studies such as embroidery, sewing (with treadle machines), traditional thangka (religious art) painting provide skills by which women can support themselves.   Basic health and hygiene instruction improve the quality of life.     Strong and confident, graduates will become leaders and role models to girls and women, able to teach and serve their communities, locally, throughout the Himalayas, and beyond.