A virtual discussion on future academic endeavors was held between the Nāgānanda International Institute for Buddhist Studies (NIIBS) and Mahachulalongkornrajavidyalaya University (MCU), Thailand, on March 14th, 2025. Representing MCU, Associate Prof. Ven. Dr. Walmoruwe Piyaratana Nayaka Thero and Associate Prof. Dr. Natthee Sridee, Deputy Dean for Administration of the Faculty of Buddhism, participated in the discussion, offering valuable insights.
From NIIBS, contributions came from Ven. Dr. Dampe Vijitaratana Thero, Dean of the Faculty of Buddhist Studies; Senior Prof. Wasantha Priyadarshana, the Academic Consultant; Mr. Suneth Bandara, Head of the Department of Pali and Buddhist Studies; Dr. Kumari Madanayake, Head of the Department of Applied Buddhism; Miss. Pushipini Kavindya, Assistant Registrar; and other distinguished faculty members, all of whom made meaningful contributions to the conversation.
The event was organized by Mr. Samantha Opanayake, the Foreign University Coordinator, under the guidance of Ven. Sooriyawewa Sumedha Thera, Coordinator to the Vice-Chancellor of NIIBS.
During the discussion, scholars from both institutions agreed to collaborate on various academic initiatives, including the development of Certificate, Diploma, and Degree programs in Buddhist Studies, Buddhist Meditation, Buddhist Psychology and Counselling, and Modern Trends in Buddhist Studies. The collaboration will also include faculty and student exchanges, as well as joint research projects.
This collaboration promises to be instrumental in promoting Buddhism globally and addressing contemporary challenges through the wisdom and practices of Buddhist teachings.
