The first International Buddhist College( IBC) convocation, since its inception in2002, was convened on 20th August 2008 at 1pm in IBC Multipurpose hall The convocation attracted both local and foreign dignitaries in the Buddhist and academic fields to witness the event.
IBC is the realization of the vision of establishing an international institute of higher learning offering quality education within a spiritually dedicated, non-sectarian, modern and scholastic environment.
IBC declares itself the heritage belonging to all the Buddhists in the world and not to any individual or organization.

It is a joyous moment for the graduates, lecturers, college authorities and all those who have helped to make the college a success in one way or another. Our heartfelt congratulations to the graduates for their perseverance and hard-work. Hats off also to Than Hsiang Temple, its abbot in particular for his vision and contributions in the field of Buddhist education.

With the advent of the twenty first century- an age of information and communication technology, Buddhism finds itself at the crossroad of realigning itself to keep abreast with the changing world. IBC provides students at undergraduate as well as post-graduate levels, a unique opportunity to acquire a comprehensive and in-depth knowledge and understanding of the different Buddhist traditions.

The first batch of graduates comprises 10 BA and 8 MA of sangha as well as lay members.
The invited distinguished guests present were the IBC founder, Ven Wei Wu,
Ven. Prof. K.L. Dhammajoti, Phra Ratchaworathamkoson, Pro. Li Chor Feng, Prof. Kapila Abhayawansa, Dr. OoiChoi Lian,Ven. Zhen Chan, Dr. Thongchai Chewprecha, Mr. Puthsup Maneesri, Prof. Prasert Na Nagara, Prof. Udom Warotamasikkhadit, Dr. Fa Qing, Dr. Balee Buddharaksa, Mr. Yew Cheng Keat and Ms. Koh Bee Ling.

The ceremony began with the singing of the National anthem and the triple Gem eulogy and after the lamp lighting by the guests-of-honour Ven.Prof. Dhammajoti, the rector of IBC declared the convocation opened.

Prof. C.F. Lee, the vice chancellor of Hong Kong University and the chairman of Tung Ling foundation was then invited by Prof. Kapila to take the floor.

In his convocation address, Prof. Li thanked the organizing committee for the invitation and complimented Ven. Wei Wu, the IBC founder for his role model and leadership that contribute to the success of IBC.

He reiterated the importance of keeping pace with the rapidly changing world with regard to social, psychological, economic and technological changes in order to make Buddhism relevant to the need of the people.

He further added that the fact that many prestigious universities in the world, such as Harvard, Yale, Oxford etc., are now paying more attention to the Buddhist studies is an indication that Buddhism has now provided a viable avenue for finding solutions to problems besetting the world.

Therefore, the graduates bear a heavy responsibility as missionaries to preach what they learned for the good of the many, he reminded.

Ven. Prof. Dhammajoti gave away the scrolls to the following graduates:

Master of Arts (Buddhist Studies) with Distinction
1. Li Xue Ping
2. Jiang Yong Chao
3. Neo Bok Yin
4. Zue Xiao Ning
5. Phanuthep Sutthithepthamrong
6. Lee Dai Choo

Master of Arts (Buddhist Studies)
1. Siriporn Chammanowong
2. Saroeun Chun

Bachelor of Arts (Religious Studies) with First Class Honours
1. Karmananda
2. Karuna Priya
3. Satyajit Barua
4. Sajal Barua
5. Dilokananda Sraman

Bachelor of Arts (Religious Studies)
1. Molayon Chakma
2. Ratna Kirti Chakma
3. Gmana kirti Sraman
4. Shanti Moy Tongchangya
5. Kong Sophal

Ven. Wei Wu also gave away certificates of appreciation to the following awardees in recognition of their contributions to IBC.

Prof. Dr. Prasert Na Nagara
Prof. Dr. Udom Warotamasikkhadit
Mr. Prawit Phongprapat
Dr. Somboon Duaangsamosorn
Dr. Fa Qing.

The following recipients also received their outstanding academic performance and conduct

Master of Arts (Buddhist Studies)
1. Li Xue Ping
2. Jiang Yong Chao
3. Phanuthep Sutthithepthamrong

Bachelor of Arts (Religious Studies)
1. Karmananda
2. Satyajit Barua
3. Sajal Barua

Before the curtains were drawn down to a close for the convocation, Ven. Prof Dhammajoti, the rector, signed the Register of Graduates and thereafter declared the graduation ceremony closed, bringing the historical first IBC convocation to a successful ending.

PS. To witness the historical event, Than Hsiang temple sponsored the trip to attend the graduation ceremony for all well-wishers and devotees in appreciation of their support over the years. A convoy of 11 buses from Penang Island and the mainland started the journey as early as 7 am in the morning on 20 Aug 2008 and returned to Than Hsiang at a quarter to midnight.