A three-day experiential learning program titled “Compassion in Action” was successfully conducted at Olympus High, Dehradun, from 23rd to 25th January 2025. The initiative also served as a meaningful cultural exchange, bringing together 40 students each from Olympus High and Tibetan Children’s Village School, Selaqui, Dehradun, to participate in shared learning experiences. The program aimed to nurture the values of compassion, peace, non-violence, empathy, and ethical responsibility through participatory, reflective, and creative learning methodologies.
The program was enriched by the gracious presence of Dr. Kunal Shamshere Malla, Managing Director, and Dr. Anuradha Pundeer Malla, Director of Academics, Olympus High. Both leaders addressed and motivated the students, inspiring them to integrate empathy, kindness, and ethical responsibility into their academic pursuits and everyday lives.
The initiative was led by Youdon Aukartsang, Co-founder and Managing Trustee of the Empowering the Vision Project (EVP), along with Jaya Iyer, Founder of Lunar Energy NGO, Tsering Gyalpo, Director of EVP, and Shailey, Founder of Manara NGO. The facilitators emphasized the significance of compassionate education in shaping socially responsible and ethically grounded individuals.
Day 1 – 23rd January 2025: Setting the Foundation
The program commenced with the arrival of participants followed by a warm welcome session. Interactive ice-breaker activities and buddy formation exercises helped students to build a sense of comfort and belonging.
The day focused on setting the context by introducing students to the core themes of compassion, empathy, and ethical awareness. Role plays and forum performances conducted by the CIA team encouraged students to reflect on real-life situations and creatively express their perspectives, thereby laying a strong foundation for the days ahead.
Day 2 – 24th January 2025: Igniting Inner Potential
The second day began with a recap and reflection session, enabling students to revisit key learnings from the previous day. This was followed by group work activities that promoted collaboration, teamwork, and critical thinking.
A powerful experiential session guided students to discover their inner strengths, passions, and sense of purpose. Through structured reflection and interactive engagement, participants were motivated to recognize their potential and channel it positively through compassion and self-awareness.
The day further included theatre, art, and creative writing activities that allowed students to explore compassion from diverse perspectives. Short film screenings followed by guided discussions deepened their understanding of empathy, social responsibility, and human values. Facilitator briefings and bonding activities strengthened group dynamics and peer connections.
Day 3 – 25th January 2025: Reflection and Closure
The final day focused on consolidation and reflection. Students presented their group work, sharing insights, experiences, and lessons gained during the program. A comprehensive reflection and feedback session enabled participants to articulate their learning outcomes and personal takeaways.
The program concluded with a formal closure session, marking the successful completion of the Compassion in Action initiative.
The Compassion in Action Program provided students with a meaningful platform to engage deeply with values essential for personal growth and social harmony. Through experiential learning, creative expression, and self-reflection, the initiative reinforced the importance of empathy, ethical conduct, and responsible citizenship. By hosting this impactful program, Olympus High reaffirmed its commitment to holistic education and value-based learning.
