Wangchuk’s institute pushes forward with its mission despite his detention

On the outskirts of Leh town, nestled among barren mountains in Phey village, volunteers at the Students’ Educational and Cultural Movement of Ladakh (SECMOL) campus are busy teaching a group of students in a modest classroom.

Founded by renowned climate activist Sonam Wangchuk, SECMOL has remained a beacon of alternative education in Ladakh. Despite Wangchuk’s recent detention under the stringent National Security Act (NSA) and his current incarceration in a Rajasthan jail—hundreds of kilometers from Leh—the institute continues to operate undeterred.

Before his detention, SECMOL also came under scrutiny when the Union Home Ministry revoked its Foreign Contribution Regulation Act (FCRA) registration, citing alleged violations in the handling of foreign funds.

Wangchuk, however, had told The Tribune in an earlier interview that he no longer holds an active role in SECMOL’s management, despite being its founder.

Back at the Phey campus, the institute continues its mission as usual, with more than 30 students currently enrolled in its residential programme. “We continue to teach and manage day-to-day operations,” said a staff member. “The FCRA cancellation hasn’t affected our regular work. We are still moving forward on our journey of creating success stories.”

A visit to the lush, eco-friendly campus highlights Wangchuk’s signature innovations—solar energy systems, sustainable construction, and natural resource use for everyday living. On a sunny afternoon this week, a staff member could be seen preparing lunch using a solar cooker.

Students at SECMOL are not only engaged in academics but also in hands-on projects. They have helped build a biogas digester, solar water heaters, a solar-heated hall, and a compost toilet.

According to its website, SECMOL “strives to equip young Ladakhis—especially those from rural or disadvantaged backgrounds—with the knowledge, skills, perspective, and confidence to choose and build a sustainable future.”

Staff members say the institute has built a track record of transforming lives. “Our focus is on practical, experience-based learning. Most of our students are school dropouts or those who have failed in the traditional system,” said another staff member.

“They often arrive here with low self-esteem, but by the time they leave, they’re full of confidence. Many go on to become entrepreneurs and professionals. Everyone finds a path to success.”