University of Melbourne honoured as sole Australian recipient of Buddhist translations from Thailand

The University of Melbourne was chosen as the sole Australian recipient of the World Tipitaka 2016 Edition, a phonetic recitation of Buddhist scriptures, presented by the Ambassador of Thailand to University leaders this week.

Ambassador of Thailand to Australia, Her Excellency Ms Arjaree Sriratanaban, presented the collection to University of Melbourne Chancellor Ms Jane Hansen and Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Global, Culture and Engagement) Professor Michael Wesley in a special ceremony at the University’s Parkville campus.

The Tipiṭaka is a treasured cultural asset of Thailand, containing the complete scriptures of Theravāda Buddhism and Pāli Canon in its original language and pronunciation. Its global dissemination reflects Thailand’s commitment to preserving traditional knowledge while fostering international dialogue, reinforcing strong ties between Thailand and academic institutions around the world.

Professor Michael Wesley said the gift of the Tipitakahighlights our joint dedication to preserving cultural heritage and building understanding between nations.

“The University of Melbourne is honoured to receive this generous gift,” Professor Wesley said.

“An intercultural understanding of the world is embedded into the fabric of our institution and gifts like the Tipitaka help to form meaningful relationships with our neighbours in Asia and the Pacific, and across the globe.”

The gift is the third edition of the Tipitaka presented to the University. In the 1890’s, the University received the world’s first printed Tipitaka in Siamese script. In 2005, the World Tipitaka, Roman script edition, was published and presented to over 150 international institutions worldwide, including the University of Melbourne.

The University of Melbourne is the only Australian institution to receive all three editions.