China Deploys Former Soldiers as Teachers in Tibetan Schools

China has launched a pilot program deploying military veterans in state-run schools and kindergartens in Nagchu, Tibet, to provide political and military training for children as young as four. Thirteen veterans have been stationed at seven schools, where state media showed students marching in fatigues, raising flags, and hearing “red stories” glorifying the Communist Party. The program follows amendments to China’s National Defense Education Law in 2024 and aims to integrate patriotic and defence training into daily education. Rights groups warn the initiative intensifies Sinicisation and prepares Tibetan youth for future service in the People’s Liberation Army.