The Department of Pali and Buddhist Studies, University of Kelaniya, formally inaugurated a new hostel complex for foreign students on 15 December 2025 at the Faculty of Social Sciences Auditorium, University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka.

This inauguration represents a significant institutional milestone, reflecting the University’s continued commitment to the advancement of international Buddhist education and the provision of enhanced residential facilities for overseas students engaged in Pali and Buddhist Studies.

The event was graced by a distinguished international delegation, including Emeritus Professor Ven. K. L. Dhammajoti Thera, Chairperson of Buddha-Dharma Centre, Hong Kong; Mr Y. C. Leong, a representative from Glorious Sun Charity Fund; Ms Jonna Choi, Chairperson of the Dhammajothi Mission; Ven. Bhikkhuni Sing Kan Theri; and sister May Kong from Malaysia. Their participation underscored the strong academic, cultural, and spiritual linkages fostered by the University of Kelaniya with international Buddhist institutions and organizations.

The occasion was further honored by the presence and guidance of Senior Professor Ven. Makuruppe Dhammananda Thera, Head, Department of Pali and Buddhist Studies. There, several eminent scholars and academic administrators participated in the ceremony representing Sri Lanka, including Professor M. M. Gunathilake,  Dean of the Faculty of Social Sciences; Dr Sudath Senarath, Dean of the Faculty of Humanities; and Chair Professor Ven. Nabirittankadawara Gnanaratana Thera, Senior Professor Ven. Therele Dhammaratana Thera, Senior Professor Ven. Naotunne Wimalagnana Thera, Senior Professor Udita Garusinha, Professor Rajitha Pushpakumara, and Dr Ven. Dodamkumbure Dhammadassi Thera from the Department of Pali and Buddhist Studies.

The event was also attended by Mr. K. K. K. Dharmathilake, Registrar, University of Kelaniya, along with several members of the academic staff and non-academic staff, reflecting broad institutional participation and support for the initiative.

In their addresses, speakers emphasized the importance of fostering a supportive residential and academic environment for international students and reaffirmed the University of Kelaniya’s role as a leading global centre for Buddhist scholarship, intercultural dialogue, and academic excellence.

The newly inaugurated hostel complex is expected to make a significant contribution to enhancing the welfare and academic experience of foreign students, thereby further strengthening the University of Kelaniya’s international standing in the fields of Buddhist Studies and the Humanities.