The Department of Pali and Buddhist Studies at the University of Kelaniya officially commenced its academic year for global scholars with the grand Inauguration Ceremony of the Diploma in Buddhist Studies (35th Batch). The event, held on 26 May 2026 at the Boardroom of the Faculty of Humanities, was graced by university administrative heads, distinguished faculty members, non-academic staff, and an enthusiastic cohort of newly enrolled foreign students. 

Prof. Chaminda Abeysinghe, Dean of the Faculty of Social Sciences, and Dr Sudath Senarath, Dean of the Faculty of Humanities, honored the occasion as chief academic dignitaries. Their presence underscored the interdisciplinary significance and institutional support given to international programs within the university.

The official proceedings opened with a warm welcome address delivered by Senior Lecturer Ven. Deniyaye Paññāloka Buddharakkhita Thero, Head of the Department of Pali and Buddhist Studies. In his address, Ven. Buddharakkhita welcomed the foreign students into the university’s scholarly community and provided essential guidelines, structural instructions, and academic insights to help the incoming batch navigate their upcoming year of study seamlessly.

Following the welcome, Senior (Chair) Prof. Ven. Nabirittankadawara Gnanaratana Thero provided a comprehensive and illuminating introduction to the Course History and Structure. He traced the rich legacy of the diploma program over its 35 intakes and outlined how the curriculum is meticulously designed to provide global students with a profound, authentic understanding of Buddhist philosophy, text, and culture.

The event also featured a thought-provoking Keynote Speech by Prof. Ven. Miriswaththe Wimalagnana Thero, who inspired the students to pursue deep analytical research during their stay.

The ceremony was heavily attended by a distinguished gathering of Professors, Senior Lecturers, and Lecturers from both the department and the wider faculty, alongside the dedicated non-academic staff whose behind-the-scenes efforts ensured the event's success.

With this successful inauguration, the University of Kelaniya continues to strengthen its global outreach, fostering an international environment for the preservation, study, and dissemination of Buddhist heritage.