Editorial

An association is like a living organism: as it grows, it evolves and is transformed. The School in the Sky team is getting bigger: three new team members have joined the ranks but before I introduce them to you, I'd like to talk about Anila Yéshé. Yéshé was present since the association was founded, and for four years she was its secretary, although the scope of her activities went far beyond the job description. She contributed greatly to the pedagogical aspect of the project and went to Ladakh several times on assignment. She also established connections with many sponsors and other associations. Why use the past tense? No fret – the news is all good. She is retiring from activity in order to begin a long retreat, and this will be her new way of supporting the association and the children. As I mentioned, there are three new team players:
Angélique Pieri, a teacher, is helping us think about educational goals; she's also very good at written composition;
Tsulnam, a doctor, is particularly involved in the socio-medical aspect of the project; and
Cédric, a resident of Dhagpo, is involved in planning and communication.
Because there were so few of us before, a lot of work piled up, waiting to be dealt with. We can now give new oomph to the association so that the children, parents and teachers of The School in the Sky are better assisted.

This issue of the Journal dans le Ciel includes our regular sections: news of the Autumn, 2002, mission, financial state of affairs, present and future project updates, and, naturally, news of the children in their school.
This time, in our 'In the spotlight' rubric, Alan is holding the mike. He spent several months on site as part of his university degree in Humanitarian Management. His presence was helpful because he oversaw the project while he was studying its different aspects. He tells us of his experience.
You'll also find a short panoramic view of Ladakh's history and geo-political situation as well as a description of our plans to organize a trip this summer, following the request of many of our sponsors.
This small journal bears witness to the connection we have to these children and confirms that the School in the Sky is not only a humanitarian project, but is also a source of inspiration and generosity.

Lama Puntso

Association l'Ecole Dans le Ciel - Landrevie F-24290 Saint Léon sur Vézère
e-mail : edc@dhagpo-kagyu.org - web : http://edc.dhagpo-kagyu.org
tel: 33-5-53504966 - fax: 33-5-53508054