Andhra University Launches MA in Pali, Buddhist Studies
VISHAKHAPATNAM: Andhra University introduced online Master of Arts (MA) programme in Pali and Buddhist studies on Saturday. The launching ceremony of the new course was organised at the Executive Council Hall wherein several dignitaries, academic leaders, and scholars from Andhra University and Sri Jayewardenepura University in Sri Lanka, were in attendance.
Senior prof. Pathmalal Manage, vice-chancellor of the University of Sri Jayewardenepura, was the chief guest. Speaking on the occasion, he commended the Andhra University’s initiative in developing the collaborative programme and emphasized the importance of two-year MA courses in Pali and Buddhist studies for the contemporary society.
Prof. Kishor Babu, in-charge vice-chancellor of the university, who was presiding over the event, held discussion on the significance of the joint initiative. He was joined by prof. Narasimha Rao, principal of Arts and Commerce College, and prof. K. Ramesh Babu, head of the department of yoga and consciousness.
Ven. prof. Madagoda Abhaya Tissa spoke about the role of new programme in fostering cross-cultural exchange and preserving the Buddhist heritage. His insights were complemented by Ven. Madagampiye Vijitha Mamma Thero, who elaborated on the curriculum’s structure and its relevance to modern Buddhist studies.
Former registrar V. Krishna Mohan stressed on the importance of MoU between the Andhra University and Sri Jayewardenepura University, underlining that it will enhance the tie-up under the New Education Policy-2020 framework.
The event was coordinated by professor Thakshila of the department of yoga and consciousness.