Under Lha Charitable Trust’s Tibetan Language & Culture Preservation and Promotion Program, the Trust launched the Merit Scholarship in the name of His Eminence Professor Samdhong Rinpoche to honor and express gratitude for his profound and enduring legacy, particularly in the preservation and promotion of the Tibetan language and culture. This merit scholarship supports dedicated Tibetan graduates in Tibetan Studies for their exemplary commitment to preserving Tibet’s linguistic and cultural heritage.
In August, Lha formally announced the Merit Scholarship. A total of 40 Tibetan graduates applied, and after a careful review process based on their dissertations, research articles, and required documentation, 8 meritorious students—5 women and 3 men—were selected. These graduates represent diverse institutions, including Men-Tsee-Khang Sowa-Rigpa Medical College, The Dalai Lama Institute for Higher Education, and the Central Institute of Higher Tibetan Studies (Varanasi).
In addition to the main scholarship, 16 students from Sarah College for Higher Tibetan Studies were awarded supplementary scholarships to support their college fees, further extending the program’s reach and impact.
The Merit Scholarship awards were presented on November 5, during the celebration of His Eminence Professor Samdhong Rinpoche’s 86th Birthday, an occasion officially observed as Tibetan Teachers’ Day. The awards were conferred by the special guest of the event, Ven. Nawang Norbu, executive director of the Mon Tendhon Culture Preservation Society.
The positive impact of this initiative is best reflected in the words of some of the recipients:
Dolma Tsering—The Dalai Lama Institute: “I really appreciate and want to thank Lha Charitable Trust for initiating this merit scholarship. I am happy to receive this support.”
Yeshi Lhatso—Men-Tsee-Khang: “I am truly grateful for this opportunity provided by Lha Charitable Trust. This scholarship has encouraged me to strive for excellence and strengthen my dedication to learning.”
Tenzin Wangdak—Men-Tsee-Khang: “This is another creative way by Lha to bring our youths’ focus to our traditional culture and education. I hope more of our youth show interest in Tibetan Studies and help promote it.”
Tezin Youdon—Men-Tsee-Khang: “This generous support means a great deal to me—not only financially but also as an encouraging reminder that my efforts and aspirations are recognized. Programs like this create a lasting and meaningful impact on Tibetan students who are committed to preserving and nurturing our language and culture.”
The successful implementation of the Merit Scholarship represents a significant accomplishment for Lha Charitable Trust in its ongoing efforts to preserve Tibetan language and culture. By recognizing and supporting outstanding Tibetan graduates, the scholarship directly contributes to building a strong foundation of future graduates and cultural custodians. Lha Charitable Trust remains committed to empowering Tibetan youth through continued educational initiatives that uphold our shared cultural heritage.