Sonam Wangchuk, a name synonymous with innovation and social reform in the harsh yet beautiful landscape of Ladakh, India. Born in 1966, this mechanical engineer by training has dedicated his life to tackling two important challenges: education and climate change.
Education Redefined: SECMOL and Beyond
Disillusioned with a system he deemed irrelevant to the unique needs of Ladakh, Wangchuk co-founded the Students Educational and Cultural Movement of Ladakh (SECMOL) in 1988. Here, education goes beyond rote learning. SECMOL prioritizes experiential learning, focusing on Ladakhi culture, ecology, and problem-solving. In particular, their admission criteria give priority to those who have not succeeded in traditional exams, creating a welcoming space for diverse learners.
Wangchuk's vision extends beyond SECMOL. He played a key role in Operation New Hope, a collaborative effort to improve government schools in Ladakh. The initiative aims to make education more relevant and in line with the needs of the region.
Engineering Marvels: The Ice Stupa
Wangchuk's innovative spirit is not limited to education. He is famous for creating the "Ice Stupa"—a" technique for creating artificial glaciers. These cone-shaped ice formations capture winter meltwater, storing it as snow that slowly melts away in the dry months, providing relief for Ladakhi communities facing water shortages due to climate change. Provides an important water source.
