Buddhist scholars have stressed the need for the government’s special attention to promote and develop Lumbini Buddhist University.

Speaking at a symposium on entitled ‘Lumbini Buddhist University, Past and Present’,  jointly organised by the university and the Nepal Paramparagat Boudha Dharma Sangh in Kathmandu on Saturday, they said that the office-bearers appointed to the university should be those individuals who are knowledgeable about Buddhism.

Dr Naresh Man Bajracharya, the university vice-chancellor, said the varsity was being developed as the centre to produce experts in Nepal’s Lumbini, Khasti, Swayambhu, Namobuddha and others areas of Buddhism.

Stating that the university is now providing studies in Pali, Sanskrit and Tibetan languages, Dr Bajracharya said Buddhist studies will also be available in Chinese language in the future.

The university currently has 736 students.

Kaudinya, general secretary of All Nepal Bhikshu Federation, called for development of infrastructure for opportunity to research Buddhist religion.

Buddhist scholar Jigdol Lama said study of Buddhist philosophy was essential to live a happy life.

Dr Bajra Raj Shakya said Buddhist religion is an ideology that benefits all and is essential to liberate any soul from pain and sorrow.