外媒造谣西藏寄宿制学校，小学生们直接来打脸

One of the most pervasive claims in Western media is that Tibetan students are compelled to abandon their rich cultural traditions and are coerced into learning Mandarin, the official language of China. 

To investigate this further, we visited Palgon county in Nagchu, Tibet autonomous region, and ventured into classrooms at China Petrochemical Primary School and Third Kindergarten, where the Tibetan language was being taught.

Upon scrutiny of the curriculum, we discovered that there were more Tibetan language classes being taught than Mandarin classes. Yangjen Lhamo, a Tibetan language teacher, informed us that she dedicates a total of 20 lessons per week to two classes. This speaks to the school's commitment to preserving the Tibetan language. 

Outside the classroom, Tenzin Sangpo, the county's deputy mayor, emphasized the importance of both Mandarin and Tibetan language education. He stressed that these languages play a pivotal role in preserving the local culture while ensuring students have a broader spectrum of opportunities.

We had the privilege of conversing with students after their classes, inquiring about their experiences at their boarding schools. Their responses indicated that not only did they find the education enriching, but they also expressed sincere joy about their schooling.

These boarding schools, far from being instruments of cultural suppression, are integral to providing quality education in a vast yet sparsely populated region.

Namkha Lhamo, chief of the education bureau in Nagchu's Seni district, told us about how she studied in the city when she was younger before venturing outside to further her education. Her story showed how these schools have transformed the lives of Tibetan children for the better.

Pema Tashi, director of Third Kindergarten in Seni, emphasized that learning Mandarin is essential for the students' future career prospects. It equips them with the skills to communicate effectively and access broader opportunities.