JAMGON KONGTRUL IIIRD MEMORIAL SCHOOL
Impressed by the high standard of education in schools in Kalimpong and Darjeeling, H.E. the Third Jamgon Kongtrul was however dismayed by the lack of emphasis on the traditions, value, and culture of the Himalayan people, and the lack of good educational opportunities for children of lower castes and impoverished families. This compelled him to establish a School for needy Himalayan children of all castes and creeds.
To fulfil the Third Jamgon Kongtrul’s vision, his family, the Sadutsang, donated land and property to establish the School. On May 10, 1997, the Jamgon Kongtrul IIIrd Memorial School opened its first class to 30 needy children at Lower Kindergarten Level. There were 2 teachers. The School began free of charge to parents. However, through experience it became clear that parents took their children’s education more seriously if they were required to contribute nominally. Today, parents pay for the uniforms. Tuition, text books and school materials are provided free. The initial nutritional program of daily milk and cookies for all the children is now provided to kindergarten and Class 1 children only as older children are not keen to have them.
What was initially viewed by the community as a school for lower castes, the School now has children from poor families of all castes and creeds because of its high academic standards. The vision of the Third Jamgon Kongtrul of bridging the divide of castes and creeds is realised.
Today, classes in the school range from Lower Kindergarten to Class 8. As at December 31, 2024, there were 259 children and 12 teachers and four non teaching staff. The school is closed for winter vacation at present, it will reopens on the 5th of March 2025 with a new intakes.
