Courses to be offered in 1st Sem. (July – November) of Academic Year 2014/15
B. A. First Year (1st Sem.)
EN101- English Structure
PL101- Pāli Grammar I
SS101- Man and His Society
SM106- Computer Literacy and Skills
BH203- History of Buddhism in India

B. A. Second Year (1st Sem.)
HU106 -Thai Language and Culture
SK301 - Sanskrit: Grammar and Syntax I
SS101- Man and His Society
SM106- Computer Literacy and Skills
BH203- History of Buddhism in India

B. A. Third Year (1st Sem.) Pāli Sanskrit Major:
BL401- Pāli Jātaka Literature
BL307-The Chinese Buddhist Canon: An Introductory Study
ST311-(TB401)- Tibetan Buddhism
BP209- The Theory and Practice of the Bodhisattva Ideal
PL301- Pāli: Prescribed Readings-I

B. A. Third & Fourth Year (1st Sem.) Buddhist Studies:
BP307- Sarvāstivāda Abhidharma
BP319- Social Philosophy of Buddhism
TB401- Tibetan Buddhism
BP209- The Theory and Practice of the Bodhisattva Ideal
PL301- Pāli: Prescribed Readings

M. A. (Eng) First & Second Year (1st sem)
ME6103 - History of Indian Buddhism
ME6211 - Abhidharma Doctrine and Controversies
ME6230- Research Methodology Course
PL101- Pāli Grammar I

MC (Chinese) Academic Year 2014/15
MC First & Second Year 1st Sem

MC6101 -上座部佛
MC6102 -大乘佛教
MC6213-龙树《根本中观颂》中的空的教义
SK301- Sanskrit: Grammar and Syntax I

=================
Furthermore you find the academic calendar with all the important dates and deadlines under the following link:

The course gives a comprehensive coverage of Indian Buddhism from its origin to the decline and disappearance of Buddhism in India, with focus on the Nikāya Buddhism, the rising of Mahāyāna and its significance in the development of Chinese Buddhism.

The course will cover methods and methodologies used in religious studies, and may require students to do a project in analyzing Buddhist literature in various languages and from various sources. Topics in research methodology include ethics, objectives of the research, formulating the problem or issues, design and planning of research, data collection (qualitative and quantitative) and analyses, research report writing and presentation in writing and orally. Writing and presentation skills would also be analyzed using selected journal articles.

International Buddhist College (Korat Campus)
442/1, Mu 1, Thumbol Muang Pak,
Amphoe Pak Thong Chai,
Nakhon Ratchasima 30150, Thailand
Tel: +66-444-52530, Fax: +66-444-52521

E-mail us 电邮

Invitation to the New Student Orientation Program (July 3 – 5, 2014)

The "New Student Orientation Program" (NSOP) is a very important and special time on campus. It is an opportunity for us to welcome you into our community and to assist you in making the smoothest transition possible.

We have a series of exciting and informative activities lined up for you. The Orientation Program will help you to build relationships with fellow new students, returning students, faculty, and staff.

Why should you attend?

As you acclimate to the campus and the location where you will live, study, relax, and play, you will also learn many important aspects of College life, including:

• The mission of the college
• What our faculty expect and how you can become a successful student
• Introductory meeting with IBC founder and faculty from different departments
• Our student services, insightful and helpful advice from current students
• Comprehensive knowledge on curriculum and courses on offer, academic rules and regulations, registration process and other related matters from our qualified faculty members
• Campus life outside the classroom
• Gaining essential information, particularly through our website and the campus web portal (intranet)

The NSOP is a required program for all new students. We look forward to personally welcoming you to the IBC community. If you have any questions about the Orientation Program, please feel free to contact us by phone at (+66) 44 452 521 between 8:30 a.m. and 5:30 p.m. on weekdays or through e-mail: studentaffairs@ibc.ac.th
Please see the PDF file for detailed program schedule.

The International Buddhist College (IBC) organized a three days orientation program for new students to welcome the new Academic Year 2014-2015. The event took place at the Korat Education Center July 3, 4 and 5, 2014.

The opening ceremony began with an offering to the triple gem by Ven. Satyajit, Director of General Affairs. The welcoming speech for the new students delivered by Most Venerable Dr. Wei Wu, Founder of IBC. The speech went through with updating of the IBC activities like new academic building built up for new students and so on. He extended his best wishes for the new students to strive for inner qualities such as patience, tolerance, loving kindness and compassion through the IBC community way of life. In additional, Ven. Satyajit warmly welcome to all the new students and gave thanks to all student for joining the ceremony.

The program was run smoothly throughout a series of activities and speeches from senior faculty members. e.g. speech on “ How to prepare Oneself to Study in Higher Academic World” by Prof. Kapila Abhayawansa, Vice-rector for Academic Affairs; speech on “Value of Buddhist Education for Adapting Different Culture & Environment.” by Prof. Tilak Kariyawasam, Dean of Graduate School; speech on “IBC Philosophy, Vision, Mission and Objectives” by Ven. Satyajit, Director of General Affairs; speech on “Education, Career and Life Goals of the Students.” by Ven. Dr. Dhammanandi, Dean, Faculty of Liberal Arts; speech on “Knowledge VS Wisdom” by Ven. Zhen Chan, Lecturer of International Buddhist College. Sharing of Senior Students; Ice-breaking, Cultural Exchange etc.

On the second day of the program, the committee arranged different countries cultural food and offered a delicious lunch was prepared by senior students of IBC.

On the third day of the program, the committee of IBC organized a trip around Nakhon Ratchasima Province in order to let the newcomers get familiar and be acquitted with the local environment.

IBC would like to take this opportunity to express sincere thanks and appreciation to all the committee members for their hard work to complete New Student Orientation Program with successfully.

(July 07, 2014) International Buddhist College (IBC) ushered in the eleventh Academic year with higher levels of achievements at its Korat campus. This year saw the opening of the three-storey academic building and a hostel block for 24 monastic students. Another academic milestone that was attained was the expansion or diversification of Academic programs and services. IBC is now offering a new major in the Undergraduate program namely the Bachelor of Arts Program in Pāli and Sanskrit Language and Literature. True to its Mission –Vision of constantly aiming for quality and excellence, students following this program will gain deeper knowledge of the Buddhist scriptural languages like Pāli and Sanskrit. This move will upgrade the College towards that of a full-fledged university.
True to its name, IBC is not only international in its concept but in its composition of students; who are from all over the globe including Asia, Europe and America; who possess diverse background, culture and tradition; its dedicated teaching faculty and supporting staff are also multi-national hailing from Bangladesh, Belgium, China, India, Malaysia, South Korea, Sri Lanka and Thailand.
From its inception ten years ago, IBC has flourished under the abled leadership of the Most Venerable Dr. Wei Wu, the founder and Council Chairman of IBC. The college not only offers quality education but a breakthrough management style in its academic endeavors and social services in the Academic and spiritual world. Ven. Dr. Wei Wu, in his welcoming address to new students and staff in the New Student Orientation Program held from July 3-5, 2014, invited everyone to work hand in hand to ensure a lifelong holistic education and community service for a global community.
The following Programs available in IBC for new students:

Certificate Courses are available in Sadao Campus:
Chinese Preparatory Course and Chinese Monastic Training
English Preparatory Course and Chinese Monastic Training

Bachelor Degree
Bachelor of Arts in Buddhist Studies
Bachelor of Arts in Pāli and Sanskrit Language and Literature

Master Degree
Master of Arts in Buddhist Studies (English and Chinese Medium)
Master of Arts in Buddhist Studies (e-Learning in English and Chinese Medium)

Doctor of Philosophy
Doctor of Philosophy in Buddhist Studies(English and Chinese Medium)

On Tuesday, July 8, 2014, the International Buddhist College presented the Award of Dean’s List to outstanding students in recognition of their academic achievements and excellence. A certificate and a token of encouragement of 5,000 Baht and 7,000 Baht respectively has been handed over to the awarded BA and MA students. The presentation ceremony was conducted by Most Ven. Dr. Wei Wu, the Founder and Council Chairman of IBC and was witnessed by the faculty members and students of the IBC Korat Education Center.

Name List of Dean’s List awardees:

BA:
1. Ven. Cui Yanju Student ID: 201011117
2. Ven. Suresh Tanchangya Student ID: 200 910213
3. Ven. Susirigama Wajiraseeha Student ID: 1211002

MA:
1. Ven. Joymony Tanchangya Student ID: 1026151
2. Ven. Huynh Thi Ha Vy Student ID: 201312004

Dean's List is awarded every semester to student who achieves a minimum combined G.P.A. of 3.76 and above, and conduct grading of 3.01 and above in the semester.

A well known Buddhist magazine by the Young Buddhist Asscciation of Malaysia, the Eastern Horizon, is offered to the students of the International Buddhist College thrice a year.

Today (July 21, 2014) many of the IBC students received their first two issues of the magazine offered by generous supporters from Malaysia.

Eastern Horizon magazine would be a valuable source of reference for academic study as well as spiritual practice for the students of IBC.

Students thanked all the sponsors and organizers of the magazine for offering this valuable gift to them.

Mr. Tan Poh Beng
MA student
Malaysia
This may be the first time I am reading the "Eastern Horizon", a journal by the Young Buddhist Association of Malaysia, I am impressed by its rich and vast content adopting a non-sectarian approach, covering Eastern and Western Buddhist topics, inter-social and joint-cultural activities in schools and universities, missionary and leadership training, and so on. May be the journal could consider making soft-copies of past issues which were a couple of years old available freely on-line to reach out to more readers globally.

Ven Zhen Ti
MA student
Malaysia
I would like to express my deepest appreciation to the Young Buddhist Association of Malaysia for sponsoring the "Eastern Horizon" Buddhist journal. The scope and topics in the journal are very beneficial and interesting. From the experiences shared by the authors, it convinced me that Dharma is truly wonderful and precious. As the Buddha says: "When we see the Dharma, we see the Buddha." May the "Eastern Horizon" Buddhist journal reach out to more people from all parts of the world and bring benefit to all sentient beings. Thank you!

Ven. Nirupam Chakma
MA student
India
I am very delighted to have the opportunity to have this great sharing of wisdom through this magazine. I really appreciate the EASTERN HORIZON as it is very helpful not only in my daily practice but also academically. Indeed, this magazine is of great help to me in my studies and development of wisdom and compassion. Once again I would like to thank the donors for this great sharing and also to those who are responsible in the production of this great magazine.
May You and All Beings Be Happy Forever !!
Yours in Dhamma

Ven. Susirigama Wajiraseeha
BA student
Sri Lanka
Reading helps to make a person perfect.
Reading is a one of the ways of getting knowledge. The most important thing is how it changes one’s life after reading. Considering the essence of all the topics included in the EASTERN HORIZON, I find that it is very useful and attractive to students, enabling them to gain vast knowledge in various matters. I would like to sincerely thank YBAM for making this magazine available to all the students in IBC and I would like to express my appreciation for their contribution in the propagation of Buddhism.
Triple Gem Bless You...!
Sincerely yours,
With Metta,

Ven Anik Barua
BA student
Bangladesh
When I was studying in the Sadao campus I came across a few old copies of the Eastern Horizon and found them very interesting. It is a very good opportunity that we have each and every issue of the Eastern Horizon from now on. It will benefit us in our studies and practice.
I wish that all the organizers and supporters will be well and happy!

On the afternoon of July 24th students at IBC noticed that a fire had started at the nearby market. The fire caught the wooden structures and burned them to the ground, leaving many people without homes and work.

After some discussion amongst the IBC staff it was decided to organise a quick fund raising to try and help those in distress. That day Ven Dilokananda (Ananda) and Ven. Dipananda started raising money from amongst the students and academic staff, who all generously gave to the good cause.

A few days later representatives of the IBC met with occupants of the houses which were affected by the fire and handed over the monies they had collected for them.

This is not the first time that there has been a fire in the market area, which is built of poor wooden materials, a fire previously occurred in 2011, which also caused extensive damage to the area.

Everyone at IBC very much hopes that there will not be a fire in the future, and that the poor people who live and work in the area of the market will be able to live their lives and support their families without fear and further suffering.

At the International Buddhist College, Pak Thong Chai, Nakhon Ratchasima
Sunday, August 31, 2014

Dear Respected Lecturers, Staff, Students, Alumni and Volunteers,

After the successful accomplishment in its ten years of academic endeavor and social services, IBC is going to celebrate its 10th Anniversary, 15th Anniversary of Klintiendharm foundation in conjunction with celebrating its 7th Convocation and Opening of the New Academic block in Korat campus, Thailand on August 31, 2014 (Sunday).

This quadruple commemoration also includes tree plantation ceremony, chanting and blessing ceremony, offering to the guest monastic, donation collection for the new academic block and vegetarian meal provision in order to create opportunity to all to making merit, and make good relation between IBC, its supporters and local citizens.

On behalf of the International Buddhist College, we would like to kindly invite all IBC lecturers, staffs, students, alumni and volunteers to attend first ever such ceremony in Korat campus. We should feel extremely honoured to have your esteemed presence on this special occasion.

Program:

7.45 am Tree Plantation Ceremony by Most Venerable Dr Wei Wu, Founder of IBC

8.00 am Chanting from three traditions.

10.00 am Opening Ceremony of IBC Korat Academic Block.

11.00 am Lunch

11.10 am 27th Council meeting at the Administrative meeting room of IBC, Korat.

11.40 am Graduands leave for SUT followed by special guests and others.

12.30 pm Rehearsal for Graduands led by Ven Zhen Chan at SUT.

1.00 pm All Graduands and IBC Students gather in front of Auditorium

1.30 pm Arrival of Council Members, Rector, Vice Rector, Deans, Directors, Staff and Distinguished Guests

1.45 pm Procession of Academic Staff and Graduands

2.00 pm The Triple Gem Eulogy

2.10 pm Lamp Lighting

2.15 pm Speech by Most Venerable Dr Wei Wu, Chairman of IBC Council

2.25 pm Citation for Honoured Speaker by Prof. Kapila Abhayawansa, Vice Rector for Academic Affairs

2.30 pm Convocation Address by Prof. Noranit Setabutr

2.45 pm Conferment of Degrees

2.55 pm Presentation of Award for Outstanding Academic and Conduct Performance

3.00 pm Presentation of Certificate of Appreciation by Most Venerable Dr Wei Wu, Chairman of IBC Council

3.05 pm Speech by Prof. Charles Willemen, Rector of IBC

3.10 pm Rector signs the Register of Graduates

3.15 pm IBC Theme Song “For The Good Of The Many” by IBC Choir Group

3.25 pm Ceremony adjourned

3.30 pm Group Photo and Refreshment

Thank you for your kind attention.

The Office of Student Affairs
International Buddhist College, Thailand.
​Tel & Fax: (+66) 044 452 521; (+66) 08 7378 6856​
Website: www.ibc.ac.th

Starting with the Triple Gem Eulogy followed by lighting of the Lamp, the Council Chairman delivered speech, Professor Noranit Setabutr addressed the convocation address on the subject of "Personal Experience and Value of Life”.

The following are the names of the graduates who have successfully completed their degrees and received certificates:

Doctor of Philosophy
No. Name Country
1 Ashin Vasava Myanmar

Master of Arts in Buddhist Studies (with Distinction)
No. Name Country
1 Aparekke Sirisudhamma Thero Sri Lanka
2 Arkady Fayngor Russia
3 Bai Yue (Shi Yao Fa) China
4 Dhananjoy Barua (Dipananda) Bangladesh
5 Lin Jing Hu (Shi Zong Cheng) China
6 Megan Elizabeth Mook USA
7 Nelliwela Sumedhalankara Thero Sri Lanka
8 Shi Yong Hua China
9 Sven Wittemann Germany
10 Tian Xiao Hua (Shi Pu Yuan) China

Master of Arts in Buddhist Studies
No. Name Country
1 Damsopura Sugathananda Thero Sri Lanka
2 Hakwatunawe Sarananda Thero Sri Lanka
3 Khen Sokheng Cambodia
4 Kham Rinh Svang Cambodia
5 Khemawati Bhikkhuni Nepal
6 Lee Tao Dana (Shodo Jishin) USA
7 Lin Yuan Dan (Shi Zhi Yang) China
8 Mahendradatta Jayadi Indonesia
9 Phil Spitze USA
10 Padalangala Rewatha Thero Sri Lanka
11 Pandava Myanmar
12 Raniswala Sunanda Thero Sri Lanka
13 Shi Da Quan China
14 Singha Phuthirach Laos
15 Tian Ke Ming (Shi Ben Xing) China
16 Warukandeniye Piyarathana Thero Sri Lanka
17 Xaixana Bounthavong Laos
18 Yang Xiu Fen China
19 Yi Sa (Shi Ming Yun) China
20 Zheng Dong Xiao (Shi Jue Zhao) China

Bachelor of Arts in Buddhist Studies (First Class Honours)
No. Name Country
1 Cui Yanju China

Bachelor of Arts in Buddhist Studies (Second Class Honours)
No. Name Country
1 Ashin Fussadhaza Myanmar
2 Suresh Tanchangya Bangladesh

Bachelor of Arts in Buddhist Studies
No. Name Country
1 Aeknarin Uaddee Thailand
2 Charan Sathan Thailand
3 Khamdee Vilaisack Laos
4 Kitichai Yungsanpoo Thailand
5 Khamvilay Pattathammavong Laos
6 Lee Kibbeum South Korea
7 Meschai Jaisamran Thailand
8 Narongrit Tarsuk Thailand
9 Qingkan Ge China

Postgraduate Certificate in Buddhist Studies

No. Name Country
1 Mariano Facundo Ramos Villarreal Mexico

Certificate of Achievement

No. Name Country
1 Jin Hao (Shi Guo Ci) China

Certificate in Buddhist Studies (Counselling)

No. Name Country
1 Choo Kim Inn Malaysia
2 Hew Baw Jen Malaysia
3 Hooi Gan Lau Malaysia
4 Irene Yeoh Li Hua Malaysia
5 Kang Mei Yin Malaysia
6 Khoo Chin Hee Malaysia
7 Khoo Chong Sing Malaysia
8 Kor Oon Eng Malaysia
9 Lee Pey Jiuan Malaysia
10 Lo Ya Yeing Malaysia
11 Loh Chun Yean Malaysia
12 Ng Kai Yean Malaysia
13 Saw May Lee Malaysia
14 Ong Mooi Lin Malaysia
15 Sor Lee Ting Malaysia
16 Survene Cheah Malaysia
17 Tan Lee Lee Malaysia
18 Tan Li Huang Malaysia
19 Wong Wai Pieng Malaysia

Awardees of Outstanding in Academic and Conduct Performance
(Master of Arts in Buddhist Studies)
No. Name Country
1 Arkady Fayngor Russia
2 Dhananjoy Barua (Dipananda) Bangladesh
3 Lin Jing Hu (Shi Zong Cheng) China
4 Shi Yong Hua China

Awardees of Outstanding in Academic and Conduct Performance
(Bachelor of Arts in Buddhist Studies)
No. Name Country
1 Cui Yanju China

Certificate of Appreciation
Sangha Members:
1. Most Venerable Professor Dhammajoti
2. Most Venerable Zhen dun
3. Venerable Shih Wei-Che
4. Venerable Dr. Dhammanandi
5. Venerable Zhen Ru
6. Venerable Zhen Chan
7. Venerable Satyajit Barua (Satyajit Bhikkhu)
8. Venerable Zhen Yuan
9. Venerable Zhen Man
10. Venerable Dr. Zhen Jue
11. Venerable Maechee Yupin Duangchan
12. Venerable Maechee Srisalab Upamai

Lay Members:
1. Professor Prasert Na Nagara
2. Professor Udom Varothsikkhadit
3. Dr. Arporn Brikshasri
4. Dr. Li Kwok Fu
5. Mr. Leong Kok Hin
6. Dr. Fa Qing
7. Professor Charles Willemen
8. Professor Kapila Abhayawansa
9. Professor Tilak Kariyawasam
10. Dr. Krishna Ghosh Della Santina
11. Mr. Khoo Ban Tong
12. Ms. Saranya Kulwatanawimon
13. Ms. Kankamon Siripunyaporn
14. Ms. Chew Suan Bee
15. Mr. Yew Cheng Keat
16. Ms. Koh Bee Ling
17. Dr. Boonplook Chaiket
18. Ms. Arunee Muangnoicharoen
19. Dr. Thongchai Chewprecha
20. Dr. Tavivat Puntarigvivat
21. Assistant Professor Porntipha Bantomsin
22. Dr. Tan Liok Ee
23. Dr. Balee Buddhraksa

August 31, 2014 is a historical date for the International Buddhist College as a quadruple celebration was held to commemorate its 10th Anniversary, the 7th Convocation; 15th Anniversary of its licensee foundation, Klintiendharm foundation and the opening ceremony of the Academic Block in Korat campus.
Prior to the grand events, a blessing ceremony was held at 8 in the morning to seek the blessings of the Triple Gems. The chanting was held by the honorable Mahasangha and Venerable Dr. Wei Wu.
Before delivering his welcoming speech, the Most Venerable Dr. Wei Wu declared the ceremony opened at 10.00 a.m. by offering lights to the Triple Gem in the event graced by some three hundred guests and participants both local and abroad. This was followed by speeches from Professor Charles Willeman, the rector and Professor Prasert, the first council chairman. Distinguished guests, sponsors and donors were then invited to inaugurate the Korat Academic Block in a ribbon pulling and balloon releasing ceremony.
Lunch for participants and guests was served at 11:30 a.m.. Meanwhile the Councils lead by the Most Venerable Chairman Ven. Dr. Wei Wu gathered and held its 27th meeting at the Administrative Room.
The 7th Convocation ceremony, held at the auditorium of the Suranaree University of Technology, Korat, commenced at 1.30 sharp with the Triple Gem Eulogy. The Rector Professor Charles Willemen declared the Convocation officially opened for the Conferment of the Degrees. Professor Noranit, former Rector and current president of the Council of Thammasat University, Bangkok delivered the 7th Convocation address.
Forty-two graduates from the BA, MA and PhD programs received their degrees from the Rector and Council Chairman in the simple but grand ceremony. More than three hundred people were present at the ceremony which ended at 3.00 p.m. with a group photo taking session and high tea.

The Mid-Autumn Festival is a harvest festival celebrated by ethnic Chinese and Vietnamese peoples. The festival is held on the 15th day of the eighth month in the Chinese Han calendar and Vietnamese calendar, on the night of the full moon between early September and early October of the Gregorian calendar. The festival is also celebrated in Korea and Japan.

The Mid-Autumn Festival is the second most important festival after the Spring Festival to the Chinese people. The Chinese people believe a full moon is a symbol of peace, prosperity and family reunion. On the Mid-Autumn Festival night the moon is at its brightest and fullest, which is why the festival is also known as the “Moon Festival” or “Reunion Day”.
To commemorate the event and worship to the Buddha, the International Buddhist College celebrated the Mid-Autumn Festival in cooperation with the Chinese and Vietnamese students. The celebration included evening refreshments (Vietnamese cuisine) and Dharma Sharing, together with Tea Arts vs. Buddhist Culture, Chinese tea with mooncakes, appreciation by Ven. Zhen Chan, Buddhist hymns appreciation presented by IBC Choir Group, lantern procession, Endless Light Ceremony and transference of merits.

Our sincere thanks to all the lecturers, staff, students and the organizing committee members for their contribution and mutual support in various ways.

The World Buddhist University (WBU) hosted an international conference with the theme “Buddhist Studies in AEC” from 10 till 13 July, B.E. 2557 (2014) at the College of Innovation, Thammasat University in Pattaya, Thailand. The main objective of the conference was to create a specific network and cooperation with healthy academic intercourse among Buddhist scholars in the ASEAN Economic Community (AEC) and Australia, and as part of the preparation to welcome and celebrate the establishment AEC in the year 2015. The whole duration of the conference was well organised with a welcoming dinner on 10th, the conference proper on 11th and a guided tour to temples and a turtle conservation centre on 12th. There was good food and luxurious accommodation at the scenic and serene learning resort. It was well attended by sixty over delegates from WBU affiliated institutions and Buddhist organizations of ASEAN countries namely Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia, Indonesia, Singapore and Malaysia with special delegates from China, Australia and Columbia. The International Buddhist College (IBC) sent many participants to support the Conference.

The Master of Ceremony was Dr. Chris Stanford from WBU. The Opening Ceremony Report was delivered by Dr. Tavivat Puntarigvivat, the Conference Organiser of WBU. The Opening Address and welcoming speech to delegates and honourable guests by Professor Norannit Setabutr, Rector of WBU was read by Dr. Pataraporn Sirikanchana in his absence.
The Keynote Speech on “Buddhist Studies in AEC” was given by Ven. Dr. Wei Wu, abbot of Than Hsiang Temple in Penang, founder of IBC and Chairman of International Buddhist College Council.

In his address, the Venerable touched on the Christian religious crises in the west which forced the Christians to shift their resources to Asia. Over the last couple of decades, Christianity has established its influence in South Korea. This implies that the next target is China and ASEAN. The Venerable is concerned that Buddhists in ASEAN have little crisis-consciousness and Buddhism is losing its appeal to the youths of ASEAN but Christianity has made significant inroads into the poor villages in many ASEAN countries.

Buddhist monasteries used to provide the best education and parents of old send the best among their children to these monasteries to become monks and receive good education but this is no longer the case. The general level of education of lay Buddhists has risen but the Buddhist monks’ educational level has lagged behind. So he is very concerned that in future the monks will not be able to retain the respect of lay Buddhists if the present situation is not arrested.
He also highlighted on the gigantic economic potential of China. Many Chinese are now hungry for spiritual things and Christianity has gone into China very agressively. There is a big opportunity in China today for Buddhism.

The morning plenary was addressed by Dr. Taviavat, a distinguished Buddhist scholar and practitioner who is currently the Director of the Institute of Research and Development at the WBU in Bangkok. He spoke on the syncretistic nature of Buddhism in Southeast Asia with elements from Animism and Brahmanism. In the past, Brahmanism and Buddhism had competed and exerted its influence especially in the Kingdoms of Khmer, Srivijaya and Majapahit . He also touched on the three major forms of Buddhism – Theravada, Mahayana and Vajrayana. He said Buddhism over time has developed its own characteristics in each of the ASEAN countries. And now the intra-religious dialogue among Buddhists in ASEAN will contribute to the peace and harmony of the region.

After the coffee break, a panel discussion on “The Cooperation for Buddhist Studies in AEC” spearheaded by Assoc. Prof. Dr. Pataraporn Sirikannchana, WBU.
In the afternoon the plenary sessions were divided into four closely related themes. The papers which were presented for discussion by their respective speakers were as follows.

Theme A: Buddhism in AEC
1. Buddhist Ethics and Its Relevance in Southeast Asian Society by Rev. Dr. Nguyen Thi Cam Nhung (Vietnam, Gia Lai Buddhist University)
2. Buddhist Activism in Singapore by Jack Meng-Tat Chia (Singapore, Cornell University)
3. A Case Study on Inevitability Consequence of AEC from Buddhist Perspective by Ms Swe Swe Mon (Myanmar, ITBMU)
4. Buddhist Education with Emphasis on Kindergarten Education by Ven. Dr. Wei Wu (Malaysia, IBC Council Chairman)
5. Buddhist Teacher Education in Indonesia: One of the Improvements of Buddhist Studies by Ven. Budi Utomo Ditthisampanno (Indonesia, Principal, Smaratungga Buddhist College)

Theme B: Buddhism, Conflict Resolution and Modernity
6. The Survival of Buddhism in the Dark Ages of Cambodian History by Mr. Sokkhim Dim (Cambodia, IBC Alumni)
7. Buddhist Solution(s) for Conflict Transformation by Dr. Anja Zalta (Australia, Assistant Professor, Nan Tien Institute)
8. Philosophy of Buddhist Humanism: Buddhism and Persons with Disabilities by Dr. Voranong Kowitsthienchai (Thailand, Ratchasuda College, Mahidol University)
9. Buddhism for the Global Benefits and its Challenges in Modern Times by Mr. Tan Poh Beng (Malaysia, IBC)

Theme C: Buddhism, Meditation and Psychology
10. Personality Development: A Psychological Analysis of Āhāra by Ven. Dr. Naw Kham La Dhammasami (Myanmar, MCU)
11. Western Engagement with Mindfulness by Dr. Kathleen Gregory (Australia, La Trobe U)
12. Towards Buddhist Meditation in Buddhist Education by Ms. Soong Wei Yean (Malaysia, IBC Alumni)
13. Significance of Abhidhamma in Relation to the Path of Liberation by Ven. Pandava (Myanmar, MCU Ph.D. Candidate)

Theme D: Buddhism and Socio-Economics
14. The Happiness Paradox in Western Economics: A Buddhist Explanation by Dr. Soontaraporn Techapalokul (Thailand, MCU Special Instructor)
15. Buddhist Middle Way Theory and Models of Industrial Relations by Dr Chokchai Suttawet (Thailand, Mahidol U)
16. Buddhist sustain able development through Inner Happiness by Dr. Sauwalak Kittiprapas (Thailand, International Research Associates for Happy Societies (IRAH)
17. Peaceful Coexistence for Economic Growth by Mr. Phyu Mar Lwin (Myanmar, ITBMU)

After the plenary session all delegates and participants gathered back in the main auditorium to hear the reports from the four moderators and participate in the closing ceremony with the issuance of certificates of appreciation. Ven Dr. Wei Wu kindly offered to host the next conference in Penang in 2015 which was gratefully accepted by all.

The outcome of the conference was new friendships were forged. A network of Buddhist scholars was set up and important contacts were made especially with researchers from Australia. In conclusion, the conference was a great success and I was able to achieve my objectives as I gained an overview of different aspects of Buddhism and how it can be applied in the economic and social fields of ASEAN countries. I made some new contacts and along the way renewed old friendships. Finally I am grateful to Ven. Wei Wu and Dr. Tavivat for granting me the opportunity to participate and I have benefitted much from this experience.