Sri Lankan spiritual leader 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 The Most Venerable Dr Kirinde Assaji, 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.  

In recognition of a life dedicated to service the Most Venerable Dr Kirinde Assaji, 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 ceremony was attended by distinguished guests and the event brought together a distinguished gathering of academic leaders, diplomats, and community representatives.  

Among the notable attendees was Nimal Senadheera, Sri Lanka’s High Commissioner to the United Kingdom, who delivered a special address recognizing the global influence of Sri Lankan spiritual traditions.  

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

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

With a message of peace and global unity in his acceptance speech, 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 emphasized 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. Bridging cultures through education and spirituality Dr Assaji Thero’s visit also included engagements aimed at strengthening cultural and academic ties between Sri Lanka and the United Kingdom, including a campus tour, interfaith discussions, and a visit to Canterbury Cathedral, which symbolizes dialogue between traditions. His broader work continues to focus on community development programmes, agricultural sustainability projects, educational outreach, and environmental awareness initiatives.

His broader work includes initiatives such as community development programmes, agricultural sustainability projects, and educational outreach, as well as media efforts promoting environmental awareness and social harmony.

More than an award, the event is widely seen as marking the beginning of a deeper partnership between Sri Lanka and the United Kingdom. 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.

A Global Recognition with Lasting Impact  

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

As Dr Assaji 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.