Ven. Dr. Kirinde Assaji Thero honoured with Lifetime Achievement Award by Canterbury Christ Church University

In a significant recognition of global spiritual leadership and community service, Canterbury Christ Church University has conferred its prestigious Lifetime Achievement Honour Award upon Most Venerable Dr. Kirinde Assaji Thero, one of Sri Lanka’s most respected Buddhist leaders.

The award ceremony took place at the University Chapel within the Anselm Building, as part of an official visit by the venerable monk to the University. The recognition celebrates his decades-long contribution to spiritual leadership, interfaith harmony, education, and community development, both in Sri Lanka and internationally.

Most Ven. Dr. Assaji Thero, the Chief Incumbent of the Hunupitiya Gangaramaya Temple in Colombo and Sanghanayaka of the Western Province, has long been regarded as a transformative figure in both religious and social spheres.

The award citation highlighted his extraordinary lifelong commitment to promoting peace, compassion, and unity, as well as his efforts to uplift rural communities, empower women and children, and advance sustainable development initiatives.

University officials noted that his work represents “a rare combination of spiritual wisdom and practical leadership that has positively impacted thousands of lives.”

The event brought together a distinguished gathering of academic leaders, diplomats, and community representatives.

Among the notable attendees was Sri Lankan High Commissioner to the UK Nimal Senadheera, who delivered a special address recognising the global influence of Sri Lankan spiritual traditions.

Further, Sri Lanka Tourism and Cultural Task Force Chairman and Colombo University Visiting Lecturer Dr. Dulan Hettiarachchi also participated, highlighting the strategic importance of tourism and cultural collaboration. IDM Nations Campus International Sri Lanka Chairman Dr. Janagan Vinayagamoorthy also participated and was recognised by the University.

Senior representatives from the University, including Vice-Chancellor Prof. Rama Thirunamachandran and Pro Vice-Chancellor Prof. Mohamed Abdel-Maguid, officiated the ceremony and formally presented the award.

In his acceptance speech, Most Ven. Dr. Assaji Thero expressed deep humility and gratitude, describing the honour as not only personal but shared with the communities he has served throughout his life.

He emphasised the enduring relevance of Buddhist teachings in today’s divided world, stating that: “True peace begins within ourselves. When there is peace in the mind, there will be peace in the world.”

He further highlighted the importance of combining modern education with moral and spiritual values, noting that sustainable progress can only be achieved through compassion, understanding, and wisdom.

Most Ven. Dr. Assaji Thero’s visit also included engagements aimed at strengthening cultural and academic ties between Sri Lanka and the UK, including a campus tour, interfaith discussions, and a visit to Canterbury Cathedral, which symbolises dialogue between traditions. His broader work continues to focus on community development programs, agricultural sustainability projects, educational outreach, and environmental awareness initiatives.

More than an award, the event is widely seen as marking the beginning of a deeper partnership between Sri Lanka and the UK. It reflects growing opportunities for collaboration in higher education and academic exchange, cultural and religious dialogue, sustainable development initiatives, tourism and heritage promotion, and the strengthening of people-to-people connections. 

Observers note that this milestone sets the foundation for long-term cooperation and meaningful engagement between institutions and communities in both nations.

This recognition by Canterbury Christ Church University reflects the growing global appreciation for leaders who combine spiritual insight with practical societal impact.

As Most Ven. Dr. Assaji Thero concluded in his speech: “This honour does not belong to me alone. It belongs to every individual who has been part of this journey.”

The award marks a meaningful moment not only for Sri Lanka but for the wider international community, reinforcing the importance of peace, compassion, and shared human values in shaping the future.