Sherab Choling is the second school for women to be established in Spiti. Traditional values are still strong in this area, which has been home to a unique Buddhist culture for over 1000 years. Loving kindness and care for the young, old, and infirm has been the core of women's spiritual practice over the centuries. Rarely, however, have women emerged as spiritual leaders, due to a lack of educational opportunities.

With the Tibetan border now sealed and access to their cultural heartland denied, the threat of cultural extinction in the Himalayan region looms large. Social and economic changes seriously endanger traditional values. It is now more urgent than ever that women be granted equal social and educational opportunities.

The work of establishing schools has not been easy for the women of the Himalayans. Plagued by poverty, they face many social and personal obstacles. Gradually, however, through sheer determination, these obstacles are being overcome.

With diligence and dedication, these women are struggling to overcome their educational and social disadvantages. With increased confidence and training, they are becoming community leaders, making valuable contributions toward cultural preservation, environmental protection, health, and community development.

Undaunted by unimaginable hardships and disappointments, these women bravely persevere. The goal of their endeavors is to serve others. To do so, it is important for women to get both modern and traditional education. Unaided by anyone in their struggle, the greatest obstacle these women face now is economic.

Please help these women fulfill their dreams!

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