INTRODUCTION & SUMMARY

Is there value in the Buddhist culture of Tibet and the Himalayas? And in developing and diffusing a clear, accurate and sympathetic understanding of it? Is it therefore important that this culture should be carefully studied in all its aspects and contexts? Would you be willing to consider support for such an enterprise?

The Oxford Centre for Buddhist Studies (OCBS) is combining with the Aris Trust Centre for Tibetan and Himalayan Studies to mount this appeal for an endowed Lectureship in Tibetan and Himalayan Buddhist Studies. This document says why, and outlines what we can together achieve.

Oxford has a successful Tibetan Studies programme. To complement what has so far been achieved, it is vital that a Lectureship now be endowed to provide teaching and research in Buddhist Studies.

Buddhist Studies likewise is making great strides in Oxford. The opportunity exists to capitalise on established initiatives and so to make a real, long-term difference. There is scope for much important new work, and the OCBS will be at the forefront.