As you can see in the pictures posted in the gallery below, the monks study and work very hard despite the challenging conditions. Without complaint, and usually cheerfully, they sit on cushions in bare classrooms that are often over 90 degrees and still manage to excel in their studies.

The main project we are proposing is the construction of a shade roof on top of the school. This roof would significantly reduce the temperature in the classrooms. It would also provide a sheltered space during the rainy season for the monks to do their calligraphy class. The picture on the left is an example of a building with the type of shade roof we want to build (just click on it to make it bigger).

The second project is a power storage system for their computer lab. The monks have received donated computers to create this wonderful computer room. Unfortunately they cannot use them much of the time because of the random electrical supply here. The electricity here is only on during half the day and alternates between mornings and afternoons with constant, random outages. Our goal is to purchase a backup power system like this one pictured on the right. This type of system would allow the computers to operate even when the electricity is off and then regular classes could be scheduled.

The third project is to purchase new books. Every school needs books and our school is in desperate need for new ones. Not only are there not enough, many of the ones we do have are very worn and difficult to read.

The combined total of these 3 projects is about $10,000. If just 500 people were able to contribute $20 we could meet this goal. If you cannot afford $20, please consider a $10 donation – every little bit helps! If you able to contribute significantly more, all the better. It is a great cause!

Update – We have met our goal as of June 24th, 2009. Thank you all so much for your kindness.

On behalf of the Principal, Venerable Geshe Sangye , and all the monks at the school, I thank you for your kindness and consideration. May you have much peace, happiness, and many blessings.

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Keep in mind we are only halfway to our goal. We still need almost $5000 so please help get the word out. For more info see the “Gaden Shartse School Needs Your Help Post.”  Thank you to all that helped to make this possible.

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