Charter » Preamble

 

We, THE DELEGATES representing many countries and numerous organizations from all parts of the world and attending the 20th General Conference of  The World Fellowship of Buddhists (WFB) in New South Wales, Australia from October 29 - November 2, B.E. 2541 (1998), are determined to establish THE WORLD BUDDHIST UNIVERISTY (WBU) as recommended by the 56th Meeting of the WFB Executive Council held at the Headquarters of The World Fellowship of Buddhists, Bangkok, the Kingdom of Thailand on December 4, B.E. 2540 (1997). The main objective of the University is to conduct advanced Buddhist studies and coordinate with the Buddhist universities and institutions which offer Buddhist studies and related subjects all over the world in the field of research, training, spiritual practice, cultural exchange and education for enhancement and realization of the aims of The World Fellowship of Buddhists as follows :
 
1.        To promote among the members strict observance and practice of the teaching of the Buddha;
2.        To secure unity, solidarity and brotherhood amongst Buddhists:
3.        To propagate the sublime doctrine of the Buddha;
4.        To organize and carry on activities in the field of social, educational, cultural and other humanitarian services; and
5.       To work for securing peace and harmony amongst men and happiness for all beings and collaborating with other organizations working for the same ends.
 
The mission of the University is in accordance with the instruction gyeven by the Buddha to the first group of Buddhist disciples prior to their going forth to different regions of the world  "Go  now, and wander for the gain of the many, for the welfare of the many, out of compassion of the world, for the good, for the gain and for the welfare of deities and human beings. Preach, Bhikkhus, the doctrine (the Dhamma) which is glorious in the beginning, glorious in the middle, glorious at the end, in the spirit and in the letter, proclaim a consummate, perfect and pure life of holiness".  With such perspective, the University shall, among others, encourage the scholars to become well versed in Buddhist scriptures and to experience the profundity of the Dhamma through spiritual development. English, Pali, Sanskrit and other related languages shall be taught in the University.
 
Finally, we appreciate the initiative and support given by H.E. Prof. Sanya Dharmasakti, President of The World Fellowship of Buddhists in establishment of the World Buddhist University which can be regarded as and outstanding achievement of his tenure and coincides with two special occasions:
 
1.       The World Fellowship of Buddhists will celebrate its 50th Anniversary in B.E. 2543 (2000) for its mission to bring about peace, happiness and harmony amongst mankind; and
2.       The Government of the Kingdom of Thailand the country where the permanent Headquarters of The WFB is located has celebrated the 84th Birthday Anniversary of His Holiness, Somdej Phra Nyansamvara, the Supreme Patriarch of the Kingdom of Thailand for the duration of one year (October 3, B.E. 2540/1997 - October 2,B.E. 2541/1998) due to the fact that the Supreme Patriarch plays an active role in promoting Buddhism at both national and international levels. He also fully supports the work of The WFB in his capacity as the leading Patron (Ref. Article 5 of WFB Constitution).
 
          In pursuing the fulfillment of our desires, we extend our thanks and appreciation to the Following bodies: