Dhammajarinee Witthaya Girl’s School,Thailand

The Dhammajarinee Witthaya School (DWS) is a unique, holistic, free boarding school in Thailand that provides a life-changing opportunity for orphaned, impoverished, and at-risk girls—those who would otherwise have no access to safe housing or quality education.

Transforming the Lives of Underserved Girls Through Holistic Education

In Thai culture, Buddhist temples traditionally support disadvantaged boys by providing food, shelter, education, and mentorship. However, no such support system has existed for girls, leaving them vulnerable to the dangers of poverty, trafficking, and exploitation.

To bridge this critical gap, DWS was founded in 1990 by a group of compassionate and visionary Buddhist nuns. From humble beginnings, it has grown into a vibrant school supporting over 1,000 students from kindergarten through grade 12.

DWS is not just a school—it’s a sanctuary. Here, girls are protected from early pregnancy, abuse, and hardship, while being empowered to develop into educated, confident, and compassionate young women.

Recognition and Impact

Over the past 35 years, Dr. Aunampai Passakchai, the school’s devoted director, has led DWS with wisdom and dedication. Under her leadership, the school has received numerous accolades, including:

• Royal School Recognition from the Thai Ministry of Education
• Zonta International Centennial Award
• The World of Difference Award from the International Alliance of Women

These honors highlight DWS as a model for girls’ education and empowerment.

A Holistic Approach to Education at DWS

Dhammajarinee Witthaya School is more than just an academic institution. It’s a nurturing environment focused on the complete development of each girl—mind, body, and spirit.

Key elements of the DWS approach include:

• Development of Consciousness
  At the heart of DWS’s success is the daily practice of the Transcendental Meditation (TM) technique and the advanced TM-Sidhi program. These practices, scientifically validated, help improve focus, academic performance, emotional resilience, creativity, and overall well-being.

• Strong Academic Foundations
  A full academic curriculum prepares students for university entrance. Impressively, 90% of DWS graduates go on to higher education.
• Vocational & Job Skills Training
  For students who choose not to pursue university, DWS provides hands-on training in various trades—ensuring every girl has the skills to build an independent future.
• STEM and 21st-Century Competencies
  Students gain expertise in modern fields such as ICT, coding, graphic design, robotics, and artificial intelligence, equipping them for emerging careers.

• Cultural & Artistic Enrichment
  Students engage in the visual and performing arts—including traditional Thai music, dance, and crafts—fostering creativity and cultural pride.
• Comprehensive Healthcare
  Access to free medical and dental care.
• Nutritious Meals & Sustainable Living
  The school serves healthy, balanced meals—including ingredients grown organically on campus to promote health, sustainability, and self-reliance.
• Loving, Supportive Environment
  Above all, DWS offers a safe, nurturing sanctuary filled with warmth, structure, and compassion. The dedicated staff deeply understand the emotional needs of vulnerable children and provide round-the-clock care and support, creating a true sense of home and healing for every girl.

• Religious Inclusivity
  While Thailand is predominantly Buddhist (94%), DWS welcomes students of all faiths, backgrounds, and beliefs. Buddhist activities are offered but entirely optional for non-Buddhists.

The Transformative Impact of Supporting DWS

Educating girls is widely recognized as one of the most powerful tools to end poverty and improve societies. Each girl at Dhammajarinee Witthaya School not only transforms her own life—but also contributes to positive social change in her family, community, and the nation.

How You Can Help

Donate to DWS

Your tax-deductible gift directly supports the full range of student needs—education, food, clothing, healthcare, and personal care—for over 1,000 girls.

Sponsor a Student

For just $96/month, you can change a girl’s destiny. Your monthly sponsorship provides everything she needs to thrive—academically, emotionally, and holistically. Sponsorship is simple and secure via PayPal. Just enter your amount, click “Donate,” and follow the instructions.

We are deeply grateful for your support, which brings hope, safety, and opportunity. Together, we can empower the next generation of women leaders in Thailand.