Declaring Open of the Multipurpose Building with Auditorium and Felicitation Ceremony in appreciation of Anuradhapura Atamasthanadhipathi Nayaka Thero
The Bhikkhu University of Sri Lanka marked a historic milestone with the ceremonial opening of its newly constructed Multipurpose Building Complex with a modern auditorium on 07th March 2026 at 2.00 p.m. at the university premises in Anuradhapura.
This significant development, one of the largest infrastructure projects undertaken by the University, reflects the institution’s continued commitment to strengthening its academic environment and expanding institutional facilities for the advancement of Buddhist higher education.
The building complex was ceremonially declared open by the Prime Minister of the Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka and the Minister of Education, Higher Education and Vocational Education, under the patronage of Most Venerable Karagoda Uyangoda Maithree Moorthi Nayaka Thero, Most Ven. Chancellor and Honorary Mahanayaka of the Sri Lanka Amarapura Maha Nikaya on the honourable invitation of Vice Chancellor of the University, Most Ven. Senior Professor Kanattegoda Saddharatana Anunayaka Thera. The event was attended by Mr. S. Aruna Indika Somarathna, Registrar of the University and a distinguished gathering of members of the Maha Sangha, the Bursar, Librarian and University officials, academic and non-academic staff and invited dignitaries.
The newly constructed building complex features a state-of-the-art auditorium with a seating capacity of 1,100, equipped with modern sound systems, advanced lighting technology, and dining facilities. The facility has been designed to host University Convocation Ceremonies, International Conferences, Academic Seminars, Workshops, and Cultural Events, thereby significantly enhancing the university’s capacity to conduct large-scale academic and ceremonial programmes.
In addition to outsource, for the academic needs of the university community, and a long-standing requirement of the wider Anuradhapura region for a high-quality venue suitable for large-scale academic, cultural, and community events. Accordingly, the facility will also function as an important platform that strengthens the connection between the University and the broader society.
A Felicitation Programme in honour of the Anuradhapura Atamasthanadhipathi, Most Venerable Pallegama Hemarathana Nayaka Thero, was also held during the event. The programme highlighted the outstanding leadership of Nayaka Thero and devoted service in safeguarding Buddhism and preserving the sacred heritage of Anuradhapura, as well as his continued guidance and blessings extended to the University and its academic mission. Besides, the contribution made as a lyrist to the world of arts was appreciated, as his songs written have made an indelible imprint in the Sri Lankan history.
During the same occasion, a ceremony in appreciation of the yeoman services was also conducted to acknowledge the valuable contributions made to the University by Most Venerable Pallegama Hemarathana Nayaka Thero, Emeritus Professor Madduma Bandara, and Mr. M. S. B. Relapanawa, whose dedication and support have greatly contributed to the progress and development of the University.
As a prelude to the opening ceremony, a Pirith Chanting Programme was held on 05th March 2026, invoking blessings for the successful completion of the new facility and for the continued growth and prosperity of the University and its staff.
The opening of this modern multipurpose building complex, together with the felicitation and appreciation programmes held alongside it, marks a memorable and significant chapter in the history of the Bhikkhu University of Sri Lanka, while also contributing to the educational and religious heritage of Anuradhapura.
