ICDV IABU-Committees

International Association of Buddhist Universities

Overview

The International Association of Buddhist Universities (IABU) is a prominent global network that connects higher education institutions specializing in Buddhist studies. Established in 2004 during the United Nations Day of Vesak celebrations in Bangkok, Thailand, the IABU was created to strengthen collaboration among Buddhist universities worldwide. Its formation reflects the growing recognition of the importance of fostering international dialogue, promoting cultural understanding, and preserving Buddhist traditions in a modern academic context.

IABU serves as a platform for member institutions to share research, academic resources, and innovative teaching methods. Beyond academic cooperation, it also emphasizes the integration of Buddhist philosophy and ethics into contemporary education, encouraging the development of curricula that cultivate both intellectual knowledge and spiritual understanding.

The organization not only focuses on traditional Buddhist studies but also supports interdisciplinary research, including areas such as philosophy, psychology, environmental studies, and peace studies, reflecting the universal relevance of Buddhist principles. By bringing together universities from diverse cultural and geographic backgrounds, IABU fosters a sense of global community and mutual respect among scholars, educators, and students, while also promoting Buddhist values as a foundation for ethical leadership, social responsibility, and intercultural dialogue.

Through its conferences, publications, and educational initiatives, IABU has become an influential network that contributes to the preservation, dissemination, and modernization of Buddhist scholarship in the 21^st century.

Member Institutions

IABU comprises a diverse range of member institutions from various countries, including:

Mahachulalongkornrajavidyalaya University (Thailand):
The founding institution and host of IABU's secretariat.
Sitagu International Buddhist Academy (Myanmar):
A prominent Buddhist academy in Myanmar.
Dongguk University (South Korea):
A leading university in Buddhist studies.
Vietnam Buddhist University:
An institution dedicated to Buddhist education in Vietnam.
Buddhist Academy of China:
A major center for Buddhist studies in China.
Jagiellonian University (Poland):
A university with a strong focus on Buddhist studies.
Naropa University (USA):
An institution offering programs in Buddhist studies.

Most Ven. Prof. Dr. Phra Brahmapundit

Chairman

Born on September 17, 1955, in Suphan Buri Province, Thailand, Phra Brahmapundit entered the monastic life at the age of 12. In 1976, while still a novice, he was sent to study in Sri Lanka, where he completed his higher ordination and received a Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Sri Lanka. He later earned a Master of Arts and Doctor of Philosophy degrees from the same institution.

Academic and Ecclesiastical Roles

Previous Rector of Mahachulalongkornrajavidyalaya University (MCU): A leading Buddhist university in Thailand.
Abbot of Wat Prayurawongsawas Worawihan: A prominent Buddhist temple in Bangkok.
Member of the Supreme Sangha Council of Thailand: The highest ecclesiastical body in the Thai Buddhist monastic hierarchy.
Ecclesiastical Governor of Region II: Overseeing monastic affairs in Thailand.

International Engagement

Phra Brahmapundit has been actively involved in promoting interfaith dialogue and international Buddhist cooperation:

President, International Council for the Day of Vesak (ICDV)
President, International Association of Buddhist Universities (IABU)
President, National Dissemination of Buddhism Committee
Abbot, Wat Prayurawongsawas
Supreme Sangha Council Member

Phra Brahmapundit has contributed to Buddhist scholarship through various publications and lectures. He is recognized for his efforts in promoting Buddhist education and interfaith understanding.

Most Ven. Yan Jue

Vice Chairman

Born on September 17, 1955, in Suphan Buri Province, Thailand, Phra Brahmapundit entered the monastic life at the age of 12. In 1976, while still a novice, he was sent to study in Sri Lanka, where he completed his higher ordination and received a Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Sri Lanka. He later earned a Master of Arts and Doctor of Philosophy degrees from the same institution.

Academic and Ecclesiastical Roles

Previous Rector of Mahachulalongkornrajavidyalaya University (MCU): A leading Buddhist university in Thailand.
Abbot of Wat Prayurawongsawas Worawihan: A prominent Buddhist temple in Bangkok.
Member of the Supreme Sangha Council of Thailand: The highest ecclesiastical body in the Thai Buddhist monastic hierarchy.
Ecclesiastical Governor of Region II: Overseeing monastic affairs in Thailand.

International Engagement

Phra Brahmapundit has been actively involved in promoting interfaith dialogue and international Buddhist cooperation:

President, International Council for the Day of Vesak (ICDV)
President, International Association of Buddhist Universities (IABU)
President, National Dissemination of Buddhism Committee
Abbot, Wat Prayurawongsawas
Supreme Sangha Council Member

Phra Brahmapundit has contributed to Buddhist scholarship through various publications and lectures. He is recognized for his efforts in promoting Buddhist education and interfaith understanding.

Most Ven. Prof. Dr. Phra Brahmawatcharatheeracharn

Vice Chairman

Born on September 17, 1955, in Suphan Buri Province, Thailand, Phra Brahmapundit entered the monastic life at the age of 12. In 1976, while still a novice, he was sent to study in Sri Lanka, where he completed his higher ordination and received a Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Sri Lanka. He later earned a Master of Arts and Doctor of Philosophy degrees from the same institution.

Academic and Ecclesiastical Roles

Previous Rector of Mahachulalongkornrajavidyalaya University (MCU): A leading Buddhist university in Thailand.
Abbot of Wat Prayurawongsawas Worawihan: A prominent Buddhist temple in Bangkok.
Member of the Supreme Sangha Council of Thailand: The highest ecclesiastical body in the Thai Buddhist monastic hierarchy.
Ecclesiastical Governor of Region II: Overseeing monastic affairs in Thailand.

International Engagement

Phra Brahmapundit has been actively involved in promoting interfaith dialogue and international Buddhist cooperation:

President, International Council for the Day of Vesak (ICDV)
President, International Association of Buddhist Universities (IABU)
President, National Dissemination of Buddhism Committee
Abbot, Wat Prayurawongsawas
Supreme Sangha Council Member

Phra Brahmapundit has contributed to Buddhist scholarship through various publications and lectures. He is recognized for his efforts in promoting Buddhist education and interfaith understanding.

Most Ven. Prof. Dr. Khammai Dhammasami

Executive Secretary

Born on September 17, 1955, in Suphan Buri Province, Thailand, Phra Brahmapundit entered the monastic life at the age of 12. In 1976, while still a novice, he was sent to study in Sri Lanka, where he completed his higher ordination and received a Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Sri Lanka. He later earned a Master of Arts and Doctor of Philosophy degrees from the same institution.

Academic and Ecclesiastical Roles

Previous Rector of Mahachulalongkornrajavidyalaya University (MCU): A leading Buddhist university in Thailand.
Abbot of Wat Prayurawongsawas Worawihan: A prominent Buddhist temple in Bangkok.
Member of the Supreme Sangha Council of Thailand: The highest ecclesiastical body in the Thai Buddhist monastic hierarchy.
Ecclesiastical Governor of Region II: Overseeing monastic affairs in Thailand.

International Engagement

Phra Brahmapundit has been actively involved in promoting interfaith dialogue and international Buddhist cooperation:

President, International Council for the Day of Vesak (ICDV)
President, International Association of Buddhist Universities (IABU)
President, National Dissemination of Buddhism Committee
Abbot, Wat Prayurawongsawas
Supreme Sangha Council Member

Phra Brahmapundit has contributed to Buddhist scholarship through various publications and lectures. He is recognized for his efforts in promoting Buddhist education and interfaith understanding.

Mr. Gabor Karsai

Executive Secretary

Born on September 17, 1955, in Suphan Buri Province, Thailand, Phra Brahmapundit entered the monastic life at the age of 12. In 1976, while still a novice, he was sent to study in Sri Lanka, where he completed his higher ordination and received a Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Sri Lanka. He later earned a Master of Arts and Doctor of Philosophy degrees from the same institution.

Academic and Ecclesiastical Roles

Previous Rector of Mahachulalongkornrajavidyalaya University (MCU): A leading Buddhist university in Thailand.
Abbot of Wat Prayurawongsawas Worawihan: A prominent Buddhist temple in Bangkok.
Member of the Supreme Sangha Council of Thailand: The highest ecclesiastical body in the Thai Buddhist monastic hierarchy.
Ecclesiastical Governor of Region II: Overseeing monastic affairs in Thailand.

International Engagement

Phra Brahmapundit has been actively involved in promoting interfaith dialogue and international Buddhist cooperation:

President, International Council for the Day of Vesak (ICDV)
President, International Association of Buddhist Universities (IABU)
President, National Dissemination of Buddhism Committee
Abbot, Wat Prayurawongsawas
Supreme Sangha Council Member

Phra Brahmapundit has contributed to Buddhist scholarship through various publications and lectures. He is recognized for his efforts in promoting Buddhist education and interfaith understanding.

Ven. Prof. Dr. Pu Zheng

Assistant Executive Secretary

Born on September 17, 1955, in Suphan Buri Province, Thailand, Phra Brahmapundit entered the monastic life at the age of 12. In 1976, while still a novice, he was sent to study in Sri Lanka, where he completed his higher ordination and received a Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Sri Lanka. He later earned a Master of Arts and Doctor of Philosophy degrees from the same institution.

Academic and Ecclesiastical Roles

Previous Rector of Mahachulalongkornrajavidyalaya University (MCU): A leading Buddhist university in Thailand.
Abbot of Wat Prayurawongsawas Worawihan: A prominent Buddhist temple in Bangkok.
Member of the Supreme Sangha Council of Thailand: The highest ecclesiastical body in the Thai Buddhist monastic hierarchy.
Ecclesiastical Governor of Region II: Overseeing monastic affairs in Thailand.

International Engagement

Phra Brahmapundit has been actively involved in promoting interfaith dialogue and international Buddhist cooperation:

President, International Council for the Day of Vesak (ICDV)
President, International Association of Buddhist Universities (IABU)
President, National Dissemination of Buddhism Committee
Abbot, Wat Prayurawongsawas
Supreme Sangha Council Member

Phra Brahmapundit has contributed to Buddhist scholarship through various publications and lectures. He is recognized for his efforts in promoting Buddhist education and interfaith understanding.

Most Ven. Assoc. Prof. Dr. Phra Thamvajirachindaphon

Member

Born on September 17, 1955, in Suphan Buri Province, Thailand, Phra Brahmapundit entered the monastic life at the age of 12. In 1976, while still a novice, he was sent to study in Sri Lanka, where he completed his higher ordination and received a Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Sri Lanka. He later earned a Master of Arts and Doctor of Philosophy degrees from the same institution.

Academic and Ecclesiastical Roles

Previous Rector of Mahachulalongkornrajavidyalaya University (MCU): A leading Buddhist university in Thailand.
Abbot of Wat Prayurawongsawas Worawihan: A prominent Buddhist temple in Bangkok.
Member of the Supreme Sangha Council of Thailand: The highest ecclesiastical body in the Thai Buddhist monastic hierarchy.
Ecclesiastical Governor of Region II: Overseeing monastic affairs in Thailand.

International Engagement

Phra Brahmapundit has been actively involved in promoting interfaith dialogue and international Buddhist cooperation:

President, International Council for the Day of Vesak (ICDV)
President, International Association of Buddhist Universities (IABU)
President, National Dissemination of Buddhism Committee
Abbot, Wat Prayurawongsawas
Supreme Sangha Council Member

Phra Brahmapundit has contributed to Buddhist scholarship through various publications and lectures. He is recognized for his efforts in promoting Buddhist education and interfaith understanding.

Ven. Prof. Dr. Phra Medhivajarapundit (Hansa Dhammahaso)

Member

Born on September 17, 1955, in Suphan Buri Province, Thailand, Phra Brahmapundit entered the monastic life at the age of 12. In 1976, while still a novice, he was sent to study in Sri Lanka, where he completed his higher ordination and received a Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Sri Lanka. He later earned a Master of Arts and Doctor of Philosophy degrees from the same institution.

Academic and Ecclesiastical Roles

Previous Rector of Mahachulalongkornrajavidyalaya University (MCU): A leading Buddhist university in Thailand.
Abbot of Wat Prayurawongsawas Worawihan: A prominent Buddhist temple in Bangkok.
Member of the Supreme Sangha Council of Thailand: The highest ecclesiastical body in the Thai Buddhist monastic hierarchy.
Ecclesiastical Governor of Region II: Overseeing monastic affairs in Thailand.

International Engagement

Phra Brahmapundit has been actively involved in promoting interfaith dialogue and international Buddhist cooperation:

President, International Council for the Day of Vesak (ICDV)
President, International Association of Buddhist Universities (IABU)
President, National Dissemination of Buddhism Committee
Abbot, Wat Prayurawongsawas
Supreme Sangha Council Member

Phra Brahmapundit has contributed to Buddhist scholarship through various publications and lectures. He is recognized for his efforts in promoting Buddhist education and interfaith understanding.

Ven. Prof. Dr. Thich Nhat Tu

Member

Born on September 17, 1955, in Suphan Buri Province, Thailand, Phra Brahmapundit entered the monastic life at the age of 12. In 1976, while still a novice, he was sent to study in Sri Lanka, where he completed his higher ordination and received a Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Sri Lanka. He later earned a Master of Arts and Doctor of Philosophy degrees from the same institution.

Academic and Ecclesiastical Roles

Previous Rector of Mahachulalongkornrajavidyalaya University (MCU): A leading Buddhist university in Thailand.
Abbot of Wat Prayurawongsawas Worawihan: A prominent Buddhist temple in Bangkok.
Member of the Supreme Sangha Council of Thailand: The highest ecclesiastical body in the Thai Buddhist monastic hierarchy.
Ecclesiastical Governor of Region II: Overseeing monastic affairs in Thailand.

International Engagement

Phra Brahmapundit has been actively involved in promoting interfaith dialogue and international Buddhist cooperation:

President, International Council for the Day of Vesak (ICDV)
President, International Association of Buddhist Universities (IABU)
President, National Dissemination of Buddhism Committee
Abbot, Wat Prayurawongsawas
Supreme Sangha Council Member

Phra Brahmapundit has contributed to Buddhist scholarship through various publications and lectures. He is recognized for his efforts in promoting Buddhist education and interfaith understanding.

Dr. Jenny Quek (Quek Hwee Huang Jenny)

Member

Born on September 17, 1955, in Suphan Buri Province, Thailand, Phra Brahmapundit entered the monastic life at the age of 12. In 1976, while still a novice, he was sent to study in Sri Lanka, where he completed his higher ordination and received a Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Sri Lanka. He later earned a Master of Arts and Doctor of Philosophy degrees from the same institution.

Academic and Ecclesiastical Roles

Previous Rector of Mahachulalongkornrajavidyalaya University (MCU): A leading Buddhist university in Thailand.
Abbot of Wat Prayurawongsawas Worawihan: A prominent Buddhist temple in Bangkok.
Member of the Supreme Sangha Council of Thailand: The highest ecclesiastical body in the Thai Buddhist monastic hierarchy.
Ecclesiastical Governor of Region II: Overseeing monastic affairs in Thailand.

International Engagement

Phra Brahmapundit has been actively involved in promoting interfaith dialogue and international Buddhist cooperation:

President, International Council for the Day of Vesak (ICDV)
President, International Association of Buddhist Universities (IABU)
President, National Dissemination of Buddhism Committee
Abbot, Wat Prayurawongsawas
Supreme Sangha Council Member

Phra Brahmapundit has contributed to Buddhist scholarship through various publications and lectures. He is recognized for his efforts in promoting Buddhist education and interfaith understanding.

Prof. Dr. Soonil Hwang

Member

Born on September 17, 1955, in Suphan Buri Province, Thailand, Phra Brahmapundit entered the monastic life at the age of 12. In 1976, while still a novice, he was sent to study in Sri Lanka, where he completed his higher ordination and received a Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Sri Lanka. He later earned a Master of Arts and Doctor of Philosophy degrees from the same institution.

Academic and Ecclesiastical Roles

Previous Rector of Mahachulalongkornrajavidyalaya University (MCU): A leading Buddhist university in Thailand.
Abbot of Wat Prayurawongsawas Worawihan: A prominent Buddhist temple in Bangkok.
Member of the Supreme Sangha Council of Thailand: The highest ecclesiastical body in the Thai Buddhist monastic hierarchy.
Ecclesiastical Governor of Region II: Overseeing monastic affairs in Thailand.

International Engagement

Phra Brahmapundit has been actively involved in promoting interfaith dialogue and international Buddhist cooperation:

President, International Council for the Day of Vesak (ICDV)
President, International Association of Buddhist Universities (IABU)
President, National Dissemination of Buddhism Committee
Abbot, Wat Prayurawongsawas
Supreme Sangha Council Member

Phra Brahmapundit has contributed to Buddhist scholarship through various publications and lectures. He is recognized for his efforts in promoting Buddhist education and interfaith understanding.

Samdech Preah Maha Ariyavamsa Dr. Yon Seng Yeath

Member

Born on September 17, 1955, in Suphan Buri Province, Thailand, Phra Brahmapundit entered the monastic life at the age of 12. In 1976, while still a novice, he was sent to study in Sri Lanka, where he completed his higher ordination and received a Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Sri Lanka. He later earned a Master of Arts and Doctor of Philosophy degrees from the same institution.

Academic and Ecclesiastical Roles

Previous Rector of Mahachulalongkornrajavidyalaya University (MCU): A leading Buddhist university in Thailand.
Abbot of Wat Prayurawongsawas Worawihan: A prominent Buddhist temple in Bangkok.
Member of the Supreme Sangha Council of Thailand: The highest ecclesiastical body in the Thai Buddhist monastic hierarchy.
Ecclesiastical Governor of Region II: Overseeing monastic affairs in Thailand.

International Engagement

Phra Brahmapundit has been actively involved in promoting interfaith dialogue and international Buddhist cooperation:

President, International Council for the Day of Vesak (ICDV)
President, International Association of Buddhist Universities (IABU)
President, National Dissemination of Buddhism Committee
Abbot, Wat Prayurawongsawas
Supreme Sangha Council Member

Phra Brahmapundit has contributed to Buddhist scholarship through various publications and lectures. He is recognized for his efforts in promoting Buddhist education and interfaith understanding.

Ven. Prof. Dr. Medagamoitiye Wijitadhamma

Member

Born on September 17, 1955, in Suphan Buri Province, Thailand, Phra Brahmapundit entered the monastic life at the age of 12. In 1976, while still a novice, he was sent to study in Sri Lanka, where he completed his higher ordination and received a Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Sri Lanka. He later earned a Master of Arts and Doctor of Philosophy degrees from the same institution.

Academic and Ecclesiastical Roles

Previous Rector of Mahachulalongkornrajavidyalaya University (MCU): A leading Buddhist university in Thailand.
Abbot of Wat Prayurawongsawas Worawihan: A prominent Buddhist temple in Bangkok.
Member of the Supreme Sangha Council of Thailand: The highest ecclesiastical body in the Thai Buddhist monastic hierarchy.
Ecclesiastical Governor of Region II: Overseeing monastic affairs in Thailand.

International Engagement

Phra Brahmapundit has been actively involved in promoting interfaith dialogue and international Buddhist cooperation:

President, International Council for the Day of Vesak (ICDV)
President, International Association of Buddhist Universities (IABU)
President, National Dissemination of Buddhism Committee
Abbot, Wat Prayurawongsawas
Supreme Sangha Council Member

Phra Brahmapundit has contributed to Buddhist scholarship through various publications and lectures. He is recognized for his efforts in promoting Buddhist education and interfaith understanding.

Ven. Dr. Siddhartha Maharjan (Bhikshu Nigrodha)

Member

Born on September 17, 1955, in Suphan Buri Province, Thailand, Phra Brahmapundit entered the monastic life at the age of 12. In 1976, while still a novice, he was sent to study in Sri Lanka, where he completed his higher ordination and received a Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Sri Lanka. He later earned a Master of Arts and Doctor of Philosophy degrees from the same institution.

Academic and Ecclesiastical Roles

Previous Rector of Mahachulalongkornrajavidyalaya University (MCU): A leading Buddhist university in Thailand.
Abbot of Wat Prayurawongsawas Worawihan: A prominent Buddhist temple in Bangkok.
Member of the Supreme Sangha Council of Thailand: The highest ecclesiastical body in the Thai Buddhist monastic hierarchy.
Ecclesiastical Governor of Region II: Overseeing monastic affairs in Thailand.

International Engagement

Phra Brahmapundit has been actively involved in promoting interfaith dialogue and international Buddhist cooperation:

President, International Council for the Day of Vesak (ICDV)
President, International Association of Buddhist Universities (IABU)
President, National Dissemination of Buddhism Committee
Abbot, Wat Prayurawongsawas
Supreme Sangha Council Member

Phra Brahmapundit has contributed to Buddhist scholarship through various publications and lectures. He is recognized for his efforts in promoting Buddhist education and interfaith understanding.

Ven. Dr. Budi Utomo Ditthisampanno

Member

Born on September 17, 1955, in Suphan Buri Province, Thailand, Phra Brahmapundit entered the monastic life at the age of 12. In 1976, while still a novice, he was sent to study in Sri Lanka, where he completed his higher ordination and received a Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Sri Lanka. He later earned a Master of Arts and Doctor of Philosophy degrees from the same institution.

Academic and Ecclesiastical Roles

Previous Rector of Mahachulalongkornrajavidyalaya University (MCU): A leading Buddhist university in Thailand.
Abbot of Wat Prayurawongsawas Worawihan: A prominent Buddhist temple in Bangkok.
Member of the Supreme Sangha Council of Thailand: The highest ecclesiastical body in the Thai Buddhist monastic hierarchy.
Ecclesiastical Governor of Region II: Overseeing monastic affairs in Thailand.

International Engagement

Phra Brahmapundit has been actively involved in promoting interfaith dialogue and international Buddhist cooperation:

President, International Council for the Day of Vesak (ICDV)
President, International Association of Buddhist Universities (IABU)
President, National Dissemination of Buddhism Committee
Abbot, Wat Prayurawongsawas
Supreme Sangha Council Member

Phra Brahmapundit has contributed to Buddhist scholarship through various publications and lectures. He is recognized for his efforts in promoting Buddhist education and interfaith understanding.

Prof. Dr. Joanna Grela

Member

Born on September 17, 1955, in Suphan Buri Province, Thailand, Phra Brahmapundit entered the monastic life at the age of 12. In 1976, while still a novice, he was sent to study in Sri Lanka, where he completed his higher ordination and received a Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Sri Lanka. He later earned a Master of Arts and Doctor of Philosophy degrees from the same institution.

Academic and Ecclesiastical Roles

Previous Rector of Mahachulalongkornrajavidyalaya University (MCU): A leading Buddhist university in Thailand.
Abbot of Wat Prayurawongsawas Worawihan: A prominent Buddhist temple in Bangkok.
Member of the Supreme Sangha Council of Thailand: The highest ecclesiastical body in the Thai Buddhist monastic hierarchy.
Ecclesiastical Governor of Region II: Overseeing monastic affairs in Thailand.

International Engagement

Phra Brahmapundit has been actively involved in promoting interfaith dialogue and international Buddhist cooperation:

President, International Council for the Day of Vesak (ICDV)
President, International Association of Buddhist Universities (IABU)
President, National Dissemination of Buddhism Committee
Abbot, Wat Prayurawongsawas
Supreme Sangha Council Member

Phra Brahmapundit has contributed to Buddhist scholarship through various publications and lectures. He is recognized for his efforts in promoting Buddhist education and interfaith understanding.