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, themed ‘Collecting Wisdom, Sharing Peace’, is the visionary concept of 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, Porage envisioned the initiative as a means to provide monastics and teachers with the linguistic tools necessary to engage with the modern world.
Global Outreach for Peace
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 vital role of the program in global outreach.
“The need has arisen to take the Buddha’s message of peace to the world. Proficiency in English language skills is essential to achieve this,” the Mahanayake Thero stated. “Bhikkhus are messengers of peace and non-violence. This is an excellent contribution 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 led 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 Jayewardenepura—which 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 with an elementary foundation. By offering this training free of charge, the Centre is removing barriers to education, allowing the monastic community to focus entirely on their mission.
* Target Audience: Buddhist Monks and Dhamma School Teachers
* Schedule: Every Friday at 3.00 p.m.
* Venue: Pali and Sanskrit Cultural Exchange Centre, No 330/7B, Devamitta Place, Heiyanthuduwa
* Cost: Completely free of charge
Registration: Interested applicants are invited to register via WhatsApp. 0777 044 088
