On June 1st, 2024, the Lumbini Buddhist University (LBU) Faculty of Buddhist Studies hosted its annual Ph.D. Orientation Program at the LBU Central Office. This one-day event welcomed a new cohort of aspiring scholars, formally inducting them into the rigorous world of Ph.D. research in Buddhist Studies.
Distinguished Guests and Program Chair
The program commenced with Dr. Manik Ratna Shakya, Dean of the Faculty of Buddhist Studies, chairing the event. Professor Dr. Subarna Lal Bajracharya, the esteemed Vice-Chancellor of LBU, graced the occasion as the Chief Guest. Dr. Tilak Ram Acharya, a renowned scholar, served as the Special Guest, lending his presence and wisdom to the incoming Ph.D. candidates.
Introducing the New Cohort: Proposal Presentations
The core of the program revolved around the introduction of the new Ph.D. candidates. Each candidate had the opportunity to present a brief description of their research proposal, offering a glimpse into their chosen area of study within Buddhist Studies. This not only allowed the faculty and fellow students to gain insights into the diverse research interests but also provided a platform for initial discussions and feedback.
Learning from the Journey: Scholarly Reflections
The program was further enriched by the presence of two Ph.D. graduates. Venerable Malasiddhi from Myanmar, a graduate of the 2021 batch, shared their experience navigating the Ph.D. program at LBU. This insightful reflection on the challenges, triumphs, and learnings offered invaluable guidance to the new cohort. Similarly, Mr. Milan Ratna Tuladhar from Russia, who graduated in 2022, provided a peer-to-peer perspective, fostering a sense of camaraderie and shared purpose among the incoming students.
Understanding the Landscape: Expert Insights
Following the scholar reflections, Professor Basanta Bidari delivered a captivating presentation titled “Introduction to Lumbini, the Buddha.” This session offered the new Ph.D. candidates a deeper understanding of the historical and cultural significance of Lumbini, the birthplace of Lord Buddha. The program then transitioned to Professor Bimalendra Kumar’s session on “Introduction to Ph.D. Research on Buddhist Studies in LBU.” This comprehensive presentation provided a detailed overview of the Ph.D. program structure, research methodologies, and resources available at LBU.
Charting the Course: Rules and Regulations
Dr. Manik Ratna Shakya concluded the program with a presentation on the “Basic Description of Rules and Regulations of the Ph.D. Program of LBU.” This session ensured that all Ph.D. candidates were well-informed about the program’s requirements, evaluation processes, and important deadlines.
A Journey of Exploration and Growth
The Ph.D. Orientation Program at Lumbini Buddhist University served as a significant stepping stone for the new cohort. The event not only provided them with crucial information but also fostered a sense of community and belonging. As these aspiring scholars embark on their research journeys, the program’s insights and guidance will undoubtedly equip them to navigate the challenges and contribute meaningfully to the field of Buddhist Studies.
Expanding on the Details:
Individual Scholar Spotlights: Briefly highlight several Ph.D. candidate presentations, focusing on their research areas and potential contributions.
- Faculty and Research Areas: Introduce key faculty members within the Faculty of Buddhist Studies, outlining their research expertise and potential areas of supervision for Ph.D. candidates.
- Research Resources at LBU: Provide details on the library resources, research facilities, and collaborative opportunities available to Ph.D. students at LBU.
- Beyond the Program: Explore career opportunities for Ph.D. graduates in Buddhist Studies, encompassing academic and non-academic spheres.
By incorporating these details, you can create a more comprehensive and informative article about the LBU Ph.D. Orientation Program.