Dolma Ling Nunnery and Institute is a non-sectarian nunnery, built and fully supported by the Tibetan Nuns Project /BWES. It was the first institute specifically dedicated to higher education for Tibetan Buddhist nuns from all traditions. Offering a complete program of Tibetan language, philosophy and dialectics equivalent to the education traditionally offered to monks. This allow nuns to continue their Buddhist studies and works towards earning the Geshema Degree.
Since 1991, 697 nuns have enrolled in this nunnery and approximately today 291 nuns reside here. The nuns come from diverse background including Tibet, Himalayan regions, Nepal and Bhutan.
Fourteen Dolma Ling nuns are presently working in different schools and some are doing social services outside the nunnery. Within the nunnery itself, there are three teaching nuns: one Geshema who serves as both Principal and teacher, and one who is philosophy teacher and other teach science. Five nuns are in retreat centre.
The nuns help manage the daily operation of Dolma Ling nunnery, including the media department, library and kitchen. Three nuns serves as officers and overseeing various responsibilities. The Kitchen is manage by a head cook who is appointed each year, supported by purchaser and assistant cook who take turn preparing meals. The nuns also help run the cafeteria and work together to keep the nunnery clean and well-maintained, balancing these responsibilities with their studies.
The Study Program
Dolma Ling offers a 17-year curriculum in traditional buddhist philosophy and debate, alongside modern subject such as Tibetan, English language, basic mathematics and computer skills. The nuns also received training in ritual arts, such as sand mandala creation and butter sculpture. After completing the 17-years of course of Buddhist philosophy and debate the nun can take the Geshema examination to qualify for the Geshema Degree which is the highest level of academic qualifications in the Tibetan Buddhist monastic education system.