Norway funds Buddhist Education Institute

Asela Kuruluwansa and Bandara Pilawala

The Norwegian Government provided Rs. 300 million for the establishment of the International Buddhist Education Institute here.

"Buddhism gives a rational explanation of life and today it is more appropriate to the society than any other time," Norwegian Ambassador Tore Haltrem said speaking at a ceremony at the Sri Dalada Maligawa to present the Memorandum of Understanding to Diyawadana Nilame, Dela Bandara.

According to Buddhism we are masters of our own destiny and also custodians of our environment as well, the ambassador said. Lord Buddha's message of peace has to be practised as a way of life. Referring to the new educational institute, he said, the curriculum basically provides for teaching of Buddhism, Languages, Education & Sociology, Crisis Management, Human Rights and particularly Gender Rights.

Ven. Galagama Sri Athadassi Anunayake of Asgiri Chapter said, he appreciated the Norway Government's change of stand in not promoting terrorism, having understood the true nature of the North-East conflict of Sri Lanka even at a later stage.

"The Sri Lankans had their strong displeasure forwards the manner with which the Norway Government acted in our ethnic confict during the past," the Venerable Thera stressed.