SOUTH ASIA CENTRE FOR PEACE RESEARCH AND SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT
The South Asia Centre for Peace Research and Sustainable Development, launched on October 2, 2024, by the South Asia Foundation-Nepal in collaboration with State-run Lumbini Buddhist University, an initiative to promote Gautam Buddha’s teachings for peacebuilding and sustainable development. This Centre is part of a broader mission of setting up a State-of-the-Art Light and Sound Project on the life of Gautam Buddha, the first ever in Nepal and one of its kind in the world, in collaboration with the State-run Lumbini Development Trust.
Vision and Objectives
This Centre is envisioned as a comprehensive knowledge hub, offering:
Resource Centre
A collection of resource and original research materials, books, periodicals on Gautam Buddha’s teachings and contemporary issues. It will provide online access for scholars and general public.
Research and Learning
Opportunities for research scholars and academics to explore aspects of peacebuilding and sustainable development inspired by Gautam Buddha’s teachings.
By fostering dialogue, encouraging interdisciplinary collaboration, and bridging academic inquiry with public interest, the Centre proposes to disseminate Gautam Buddha’s enduring message for peacebuilding, compassion, human integrity, and social development.
Highlights of the Centre
1. Academic Excellence:
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Collaboration with renowned scholars and institutions to organize lectures, seminars, and research presentations on Buddha's teachings and contemporary context.
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Diploma, Undergraduate, and Postgraduate Programs on peacebuilding, sustainable development, conflict management, diplomacy and entrepreneurship development with plans for online, offline, and residential courses.
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A focus on entrepreneurship development and structured banking system keeping in view Buddhist ethics.
2. Comprehensive Resources:
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A digital archive of research materials to preserve and share knowledge across the region.
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Access to research papers, books, and reference materials for visiting scholars and researchers.
3. Cultural Engagement:
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Hosting cultural events and festivals celebrating Gautam Buddha’s teachings through arts and crafts.
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Engaging school students to promote awareness of Buddha’s legacy.
4. Resource building to Buddha’s Heritage:
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Focus on key sites like Lumbini, Kapilvastu, and Tilaurakot, etc. offering insights into Gautam Buddha’s early life and historical significance.
These academic activities, enriched by contributions from renowned scholars and academic institutions, position the Centre as a hub for exchange of knowledge and learnings. Additionally, the Centre places significant emphasis on Buddha's profound legacy in Nepal and India, with a special reference to South Asia, highlighting the rich historical, cultural, and spiritual heritage.
Significance of Lumbini as a Hub for Buddha’s Teachings
Lumbini, the birthplace of Gautam Buddha, as well as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, attracts thousands of visitors daily. The Centre would be a vital place to share Buddha’s message of peace and compassion with a global audience. By serving as an interface between visitors and Gautam Buddha’s legacy, the Centre reinforces Lumbini’s status as a destination for intellectual, cultural, and spiritual exploration.
The Light and Sound Project: A Transformative Experience
The Centre is intricately linked with the upcoming State-of-the-Art Light and Sound Project of the Foundation, which will provide an immersive journey into Buddha’s life, his enlightenment and teachings. This project will make Lumbini an important destination for spiritual, rich cultural journey and intellectual engagement.
Centre’s Initiatives for Peacebuilding and Research
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South Asia News and Views Platform: An online platform to publish original research and ideas from scholars worldwide, enhancing the Centre’s global reach.
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Diploma, Undergraduate and Postgraduate Degree Programs: Courses on peacebuilding, sustainable development, and conflict management tailored to contemporary global challenges.
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Integrated Diploma Course on:
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Conflict Management, Peacebuilding and Diplomacy and Relevance of Gautam Buddha’s Teachings.
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Contemporary Development Theory and Sustainable Development.
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Conflict Resolution, Entrepreneurship Development, Structured Banking System and Buddhist Ethics.International Relations, Peace Education and Development Cooperation.
The South Asia Centre for Peace Research and Sustainable Development is poised to become a State-of-the-Art facility, fostering academic excellence and cultural enrichment while propagating Buddha’s timeless message to a global audience. With the support of Lumbini Buddhist University, and other regional institutions, the Centre promises to transform Lumbini into a comprehensive hub for Buddha’s teachings, emphasizing his profound legacy in South Asia, particularly of Nepal and India.
This Centre stands as a testament to Gautam Buddha’s enduring relevance, offering a space for academic inquiry, spiritual reflection, and the propagation of peace and compassion in today’s complexed world.
The Centre is situated at Lumbini Buddhist University in Parsa, Lumbini, Nepal.
Signing of Memorandum of Agreement with Lumbini Buddhist University for setting up the SACPR-SD
