The Ambassador’s Speech: Ceremonial Opening of the new building complex of the Sri Lanka International Buddhist Academy, 10th August 2010.
The Most Venerable Mahanayake Theros of the Asgiriya and Malwatte Chapters and all other Religious Leaders, Hon. D M Jayarathne, the Prime Minister of the Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka, Pradeep Nilanga Dela Bandara, the Chief Custodian of Sri Dalada Maligawa, Honorable S B Disanayake, Minister of Higher Education, Mr Tikiri Kobbekaduwa, Hon Governor of the Central Province, Mr Sarath Ekanayake Chief Minister of the Central Province, ladies and gentleman.
It is indeed a great honour and privilege to be able to attend this opening ceremony. I am so happy to see this new construction completed, as I am well aware of this project from the stage of its’ planning. I came to Kandy several times for the discussions on the formation of the Buddhist Academy before we agreed to provide financial support to the project. I can remember the day I read the curricular of this Academy. I was very impressed about the subjects and the ultimate vision of this Academy. I came here to see the project when the constructions were on. Today I am very happy to see the completed building complex. I am much pleased to see that Norwegian funding has been used for such an important construction.
Also, this event is a very significant one for me. Today is my last day as the Norwegian Ambassador to Sri Lanka and this is the last official event I am attending. I am so glad that I have the opportunity of ending my diplomatic posting in Sri Lanka with such a successful event.
We appreciate that the Academy is open to students of all backgrounds and that the curriculum covers important academic areas in addition to the teaching of Dammha such as languages, social and natural science, conflict resolution, human rights, gender, etc” .
“What makes Buddhism unique is its scientific and logical explanation of life. The Buddha tells us we are responsible for our lives and environment and the Buddha’s teachings of peace are practiced as a way of life and are more relevant today than ever before” I know that the International Buddhist Academy programmes are balanced between studies in Philosophy, theory and texts that show how to implement it in our lives.
Once again, I congratulate you with the successful establishment of this new building complex of the Sri Lanka International Buddhist Academy. It is a great achievement.
Thank you!