Lumbini, Nepal – September 27, 2024
Lumbini Buddhist University (LBU) hosted a grand opening ceremony for its 2024 International Students’ Master and Doctoral Program today, welcoming students from around the world to study Buddhism and related fields at the sacred birthplace of the Buddha. The event marked the start of an exciting academic year and was attended by university officials, government dignitaries, and students from diverse countries.
Vice Chancellor Prof. Dr. Subarna Lal Bajracharya inaugurated the ceremony with an encouraging speech, warmly welcoming international students to Lumbini Buddhist University. He assured students that LBU is fully committed to supporting all of their academic needs. “The university will facilitate all requirements of international students here at Lumbini. We aim to provide an environment that is conducive to both study and research,” he stated, emphasizing LBU’s dedication to fostering a rich educational experience.
Dr. Manik Ratna Shakya, Dean of the Faculty of Buddhist Studies, spoke next, highlighting the university’s commitment to student-friendly teaching methods and an experienced faculty. “Our focus is on creating a student-centered learning environment with the best faculty to support your academic journey,” he said, underscoring the institution’s efforts to offer an outstanding educational foundation in Buddhist studies.
Honorable Chief Minister of Lumbini Province, Chet Narayan Acharya, expressed his pride in welcoming students from abroad to Lumbini, a place historically tied to Buddhist learning. “In the fifth century, Chinese monk Fa Xian visited Lumbini, and in the seventh century, Master Xuanzang came here to study Buddhism. Today, I see many Chinese students among us; you are the Faxian and Xuanzang of our time,” he remarked, drawing connections between past cultural exchanges and today’s academic aspirations. He assured full provincial support for international students, recognizing the importance of their presence in strengthening cross-cultural bonds.
Qijingjing, an international student representative, delivered a heartfelt speech on behalf of her peers. She expressed gratitude for the chance to study at Lumbini, especially in 2024—a year that marks the 20th anniversary of LBU’s founding and the 69th year of Nepal-China diplomatic relations. “Studying here at the birthplace of Buddha is an honor for us all. We aim to follow in the footsteps of historic scholars, promoting Buddhism and enhancing the friendship between China and Nepal,” she noted.
The event concluded with optimism and excitement as both students and faculty members look forward to an enriching academic journey, strengthening the ties between Nepal and the international Academic community.