Sabroom, Nov 29, 2022, TRIPURATIMES Desk

Sabroom Nov 29: Foundation stone of Dhamma Dipa International Buddhist University was laid at Durganagar of West Jalefa in Sabroom on Tuesday in presence of 25 Buddhist monks including monks from seven countries under the initiative of ‘Bahujana Hitaya Education Trust’ of Manubankul.

Once completed, this University will be the first of its kind in the country.

Chief Monk of World Buddhist Pope Organization from the Republic of Korea Ven. Shakya Gasan, an eminent Buddhist Nun from the Republic of Korea Vhikshuni Mani, Chairman of Bahujana Hitaya Education Trust Ven Dhammadipa and MLA Sankar Roy were present in the programme.  

Initially, the State Government gave 25 Acre land to the University – and an agreement was signed to provide the University with more 200-acre land.

Speaking on the occasion, Ven Shakya Gasan said Buddhism had a special relationship with India in the past. By laying the foundation stone of the Dhamma Dipa International Buddhist University, Korea's relationship with India has been further strengthened today, he commented.

MLA Sankar Roy said the dream of the University is set to become a reality due to the special efforts of former Chief Minister Biplab Kumar Deb who is the RS MP from the State, at present.

Chairman of Bahujana Hitaya Education Trust Dr. Dhammadipa said the construction works of the University can be started this year if the Central Government gives the required permission.   

He also said, “the university will follow the guidelines of UGC of India”.

There are only fifty thousand Buddhists in the state of Tripura mainly Uchai, Mog, and Chakma Buddhists. He sought everyone's cooperation for the successful functioning of the International Buddhist University. The students of different schools presented beautiful cultural programs on the occasion.

The University will be an institution of higher education offering Government-recognized degrees in the liberal arts, sciences, and different professional fields by utilizing Buddhist principles in education. This unique institution will be run by Indian Buddhists and will benefit Buddhists from all over the world, especially students from Tripura and other parts of the country, students from Southeast Asian Buddhist countries will also be benefitted.

The University will impart education upholding all the core values and principles of the Constitution of India. Religion impartial education will be emphasized along with cultural and philosophical aspects.

In addition to students from India, students from Myanmar (Burma), Thailand, Sri Lanka, Cambodia, Laos, Vietnam, Malaysia, Singapore, Korea, and Japan will also have the opportunity to study at this university.