The Buddhist and Pali College of Singapore was founded in Singapore in 1993. It was established to fulfil the need for the learning of Buddhism in allies various facets, in Singapore and the region. It was also formed to provide the opportunity for Buddhists to expand and enhance the knowledge of their own religion.
The College is also open to all interested members of our modern multi-racial, multi-cultural and multi-religious society, enabling them to discover the rich heritage and profound wisdom of one of the world’s most ancient and important philosophies and teachings.
The Buddhist and Pali College of Singapore is located within the premises of the Mangala Vihara Buddhist Temple and is run by the Management Committee of the Temple. It is affiliated to the Buddhist and Pali University of Sri Lanka which was founded in 1982, to provide Buddhist education programmes for monks, nuns and laity.
Its objectives include the propagation of Buddhism, the promotion of Buddhist and Pali studies in Sri Lanka and abroad, and the provision of research facilities for the various fields of Buddhist studies. Its degrees are internationally recognised and it is also a member of the Association of Commonwealth Universities.
The late Venerable M.M. Mahaweera Maha Nayaka Thero was instrumental in founding the Buddhist and Pali College of Singapore in 1993 and the late Venerable P. Gnanarama Maha Thera has been the principal since then. The current acting principal is Venerable P. Seelananda.
The programmes available at the College range from a basic Introduction to Buddhism course, to Diploma, Bachelor’s, Master’s and PhD. degrees. The College thus provides a comprehensive and in-depth knowledge in Buddhism suitable for the educational needs of all sectors of society, from the young to the matured individuals. The courses are conducted in English and all examinations are held in Singapore by the Buddhist and Pali University of Sri Lanka.
Each course furnishes an essential foundation and springboard for aspiring teachers and speakers of Buddhism, imparting a greater awareness of its academic aspects. The programmes also complement the knowledge of serious Buddhist practitioners, providing a deeper understanding of the Buddha’s teachings.
The participants of the various courses can expect to receive a well-rounded, broad and thorough education in Buddhism. All the programmes are conducted by a pool of qualified and experienced lecturers and tutors within a structured and friendly environment.