China Shuts Down 3 Tibetan Schools in Golog Over 'Administrative Issues'
Chinese authorities have closed three Tibetan educational institutions in Golog, citing administrative issues amid concerns over cultural assimilation.
In a move that has sparked widespread concern over the preservation of Tibetan culture and language, Chinese authorities have forcibly closed three private and community-run Tibetan schools shut down in Machen County, located within the Golog Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture. The closures, which took place between late August and early September 2026, are being viewed as part of a broader campaign of ethnic assimilation.
The Affected Institutions
According to a report by Phayul, citing research from Tibet Watch, the crackdown targeted three vital educational hubs that served local and remote communities:
- Gangjong Grassland Girls’ School: Also known as the Prairie Talent Girls’ School, this institution was founded in 2005 by educator Jigme Gyaltsen in Ragya. Before its campus was shut down in late August, it provided education to approximately 448 primary and middle school students and employed 107 staff members.
- Jasag Village Boarding School: Established in 1995 by Tibetan herders to support children from nomadic backgrounds, this school housed about 300 students and 20 faculty members. Though renamed the Ragya Township Second Boarding School in 2008, it was ordered to close around September 2. Authorities cited a lack of administrative permits, despite reports that previous requests to become an official state school had been denied.
- Golog Tadra Orphan School: Founded in 2005 by the late Dr. Tawo Lobsang Palden in Dawu, this school offered free academic and vocational training to underprivileged and orphaned children. Its diverse curriculum included science, Tibetan and Chinese languages, Buddhist philosophy, astrology, thangka painting, and traditional Tibetan medicine.
Culture vs. Assimilation
While all three schools adhered to China's mandatory nine-year compulsory education curriculum—which includes Mandarin Chinese instruction—they were distinguished by their strong emphasis on Tibetan-language education, Buddhist ethics, and cultural traditions. Local sources allege that this commitment to Tibetan identity was the primary driver behind the closures, as the central government pushes for a unified national identity, known as Zhonghua minzu.
Atmosphere of Intimidation
The shutdowns were reportedly not peaceful. Phayul noted that the process was carried out under police supervision and intimidation. Social media footage briefly showed uniformed officers occupying student dormitories, while students expressed their grief over the loss of their learning centers.
The crackdown has extended beyond the students. Jigme Gyaltsen is reportedly under strict state surveillance and is barred from leaving the Golog region. Furthermore, former teachers from previously dismantled institutions were summoned for police questioning and warned against posting critical reflections on platforms like WeChat.
A Pattern of Closures
These latest actions are seen as part of a systemic effort under President Xi Jinping to dismantle independent Tibetan education. The report highlights a history of similar closures in the region, including:
- The shutdown of the Sengdruk Taktse school in 2021.
- The closure of seven community learning centers across Chikdril, Gade, Machen, and Darlag counties.
- The 2024 closure of the Snowland Cultural Gems Institute, also founded by Jigme Gyaltsen.
- The June 2026 closure of the Hungkar Dorje Vocational High School, which occurred following the death of its founder in state custody.