Lumbini Buddhist University has announced the establishment of a study center in California, USA. The center will offer postgraduate and short-term educational programs under the Faculty of Buddhist Studies.
The university’s Vice Chancellor, Prof. Subarna Lal Bajracharya, announced at an event in Lumbini today. He stated that the enrollment process for students interested in short-term Buddhist studies from California will begin within a few weeks.
The university has signed a cooperation agreement with Enlight International Zen Meditation Center for conducting Buddhist educational programs in California. Twenty-five students from this center have already arrived in Lumbini, where they are taking a two-credit course.
During the event, the university’s Registrar Dr. Tilakram Acharya mentioned that the university has signed cooperation agreements with over 40 institutions to expand international relations. He also emphasized the university’s mission to spread Buddhist teachings globally by establishing study centers, as per the announcement of the International Buddhist Conference.
Dean of the Faculty of Buddhist Studies, Dr. Manikratna Shakya, highlighted the growing attraction of foreign students to short-term educational programs. He expressed gratitude that students from the USA have chosen Lumbini Buddhist University for Buddhist studies. Previously, a group of Chinese students also participated in short-term Buddhist studies.
The head of the Enlight International Zen Meditation Center in California, Bhikkhuni Jyu Ne, expressed excitement about the collaboration with Lumbini Buddhist University and mentioned they would continue to work together to promote Buddhist education.
Dr. Sagar Neupane, the Associate Professor who facilitated the short-term educational programs, noted that foreign students have shown increasing interest in these programs. He explained that students visiting Lumbini, the birthplace of Lord Buddha, can also take part in short-term educational programs, benefiting from the experience.
The university has announced various short-term educational programs under the Faculty of Buddhist Studies, ranging from three to fifteen days. These programs have been approved by the Academic Council. Dean Shakya mentioned that both individuals and groups can engage in these short-term Buddhist study programs, which include courses on Buddhist studies, Lumbini’s significance, and Vipassana meditation.
