HEIYANTHUDUWA — In a landmark initiative to bridge the gap between ancient wisdom and
modern communication, the Pali and Sanskrit Cultural Exchange Centre has launched the “Dhamma Bridge: English Language Program.”
The program, titled “Collecting Wisdom, Sharing Peace,” is a visionary concept of Dr. Damenda Porage, Chairman of the Pali and Sanskrit Cultural Exchange Centre and the Foundation for Buddhist Brotherhood. A former educator for the Government of Sri Lanka, Dr. Porage envisioned the program as a way to provide monastics and teachers with the linguistic tools necessary for the modern era.
The initiative has received high-level endorsement from Most Venerable Dr. Waskaduwe Mahindawansa Mahanayake Thero, President of the International Buddhist Confederation (IBC), who emphasized the program’s vital role in global outreach.
“Now the need has arisen to take the peace message of the Buddha to the world. Proficiency in English language skills is essential to do that,” the Mahanayake Thero stated.
“The Bhikkhu are messengers of peace and non-violence. This is an excellent input from the Pali and Sanskrit Cultural Exchange Centre to create an international Dhamma Duta team to heal the world.”
Academic Excellence in Curriculum Design
To ensure the highest educational standards, the comprehensive syllabus was designed by a specialized team headed by Dr. Shermila Milroy, a veteran senior teacher with extensive experience in both the government and private sectors of Sri Lanka.
Dr. Milroy noted that her multidisciplinary PhD from the University of Sri Jayawardenapura—which uniquely combines Education and Buddhist Philosophy—was instrumental in shaping the curriculum.
“This academic background helped immensely when designing a syllabus that is pedagogically sound while remaining deeply rooted in the philosophical context required for Dhamma educators,” she said.
Program Details:
The one-year course is structured into three progressive levels, making it accessible to those starting from an elementary foundation.
- Target Audience: Buddhist Monks & Dhamma School Teachers
- Schedule: Every Friday at 3:00 PM
- Venue: Pali and Sanskrit Cultural Exchange Centre, No 330/7B, Devamitta Place, Heiyanthuduwa.
- Cost: Completely Free of Charge
By offering this training free of charge, the Centre is removing barriers to education, allowing the monastic community to focus entirely on their mission of “healing the world” through the Dhamma.
How to Register: Interested applicants are invited to register via WhatsApp. Please send your name and details to 0777 044 088.
