Tergar School students recently led a student-organized dental camp focused on fluoride treatment and oral hygiene education. Motivated by a heartfelt wish to give back to Tergar Ösel Ling Monastery, the students coordinated and facilitated sessions both at their school and at the monastery. These events became more than practical health education; they were moments of genuine connection, shared learning, and mutual wellbeing.
At the heart of the initiative was a hands-on training session led by Nelha Sangmo, a representative from Global Dental Relief (GDR), an organization committed to bringing free dental care to children in underserved communities around the world, including Nepal, Guatemala, Mexico, Kenya, and Cambodia. GDR mobilizes teams of volunteer dentists, hygienists, assistants, and general volunteers to provide essential dental treatment and education directly to schools and remote villages. Nelha’s brief but impactful 5-minute demonstration empowered the students with the knowledge and confidence to take action.
With careful supervision and visible enthusiasm, the students applied fluoride treatments for their peers at the school and the monks at Tergar Ösel Ling. For many, it was their first time stepping into a position of responsibility in this way: blending practical skill with heartfelt intention. The activity not only reinforced the importance of oral health and preventive care but also gave students an opportunity to express care through action and discover the joy of service.
This simple yet powerful event underscored the potential of peer-led learning and the strength of community-driven initiatives. It showed how acts of service, no matter how small, can ripple outwards to create meaningful impact.
Reflecting on the experience, Tsering Dorje, a monk from the Tergar Ösel Ling community, shared:
“I am really happy when small monks gain this kind of knowledge and help others. They taught us how to care for our teeth. I saw that they really enjoyed doing this kind of social work. I hope it benefits them as much as it does others.”
As students stepped into the roles of educators and caretakers, the dental camp became more than just a health session. It became a living expression of Tergar Schools core values of Awareness, Love, Compassion, Wisdom, and Joy and a reminder that when young people are empowered to serve, they can uplift not only others, but themselves.
Big thank you to Nelha Sangmo and everyone at Global Dental Relief.
