The SSBU 12th International Conference on Buddhist Studies

In Honour of the 61st Birthday of the Most Venerable Oxford Sayadaw, Prof. Dr. Khammai Dhammasami (DPhil, Oxford) Shan State Buddhist University (SSBU) hosts the 12th International Conference on Buddhist Studies from 31 October to 1 November 2025 at SSBU, Taunggyi, Shan State, Myanmar. This year’s conference is held in conjunction with the birthday celebrations and blessing of the venerable. 

The SSBU International Conference serves as an annual platform for scholars, monastics, and practitioners to explore and exchange perspectives on contemporary and classical Buddhist thought. Over the years, it has evolved into one of the region’s leading academic gatherings dedicated to Buddhist philosophy, ethics, and practice in dialogue with global intellectual traditions.

For the 2025 conference, a total of 94 papers have been accepted for presentation across four  different language panel:
English papers: 24
Myanmar papers: 26
Shan papers: 21
Pāli papers: 23

These contributions reflect the university’s multilingual and intercultural commitment to Buddhist scholarship. Presenters represent a diverse array of institutions and traditions, with participants joining from India, Thailand, Vietnam, Sri Lanka, the United Kingdom, Uganda, and other countries. This international participation continues SSBU’s vision of fostering a transnational academic network dedicated to both the study and practice of Buddhism.

This year’s conference continues to promote rigorous dialogue between the textual, philosophical, and lived dimensions of Buddhist traditions. While maintaining a strong foundation in Theravāda textual studies, the conference also welcomes comparative and interdisciplinary approaches, including philosophy, psychology, anthropology, education, and peace studies.

A significant emphasis is placed on how Buddhist principles can address contemporary moral, social, and environmental challenges, bridging classical insight with modern relevance. Papers in Pāli and vernacular languages provide an essential space for local scholars and monastics to contribute original research grounded in canonical sources and community experience.

The 2025 conference is organized in honour of the 61st birthday of Prof. Dr. Khammai Dhammasami, whose academic and spiritual leadership has guided the growth of Shan State Buddhist University since its founding. Educated at the Oxford University, Sayadaw Dr. Dhammasami has worked extensively to promote Buddhist higher education and cross-cultural understanding through scholarly exchange and monastic education.
His contribution exemplifies the integration of traditional Buddhist training with modern academic standards, inspiring new generations of scholars and practitioners. The celebration of his 61st birthday underscores the conference’s dedication not only to academic excellence but also to gratitude and spiritual friendship within the Buddhist community.
The conference is generously supported by Wichien and Patchathorn’s family, whose contribution helps sustain this important academic gathering.