On January 13, 2026, the Graduation Research Presentation Conference of the 31st class of the Gakurin Kaichōon Program was held at the Gakurin Ome Campus. The conference aimed to explore contemporary social and global challenges through reflective practice grounded in Buddhist thought, while identifying values that can be shared across religious and cultural boundaries and translating them into concrete, collaborative proposals.
Three members of the 31st class from Bangladesh and India, who had studied as Kaichōon Program students at Gakurin for approximately two years, presented their research papers. Approximately 50 participants joined both in person and online. Each presentation began with personal self-reflection and expanded its scope to the family, local communities, national contexts, and ultimately the international sphere.
A presenter from India addressed the theme “Realizing Social Equality in India: A Perspective from Buddhism and the Lotus Sutra” examining structural inequalities based on caste, gender, and religion. Grounded in the view that every human being possesses inherent dignity, the presentation explored pathways toward overcoming discrimination through interreligious dialogue and collaboration with civil society. These insights resonated strongly with international discussions on inclusion, equality, and sustainable social development.
One presenter from Bangladesh focused on “Personal Awakening and Family Education” analyzing educational and social challenges faced by families today. The presentation emphasized that inner awareness and self-reflection form the foundation of peace within the family and contribute to the stability and well-being of local communities.
Another presenter from Bangladesh examined “Reaffirming a Common Identity to Build Peace in Bangladesh” analyzing divisions arising from differences in religion, ethnicity, and language. Building on universal values such as human dignity, compassion, and mutual respect, the presentation proposed a framework for peacebuilding that transforms diversity into a foundation for coexistence.
During the question-and-answer session, participants discussed how dialogue and cooperation can be practiced in real-world settings. The importance of attentive listening, self-reflection, and respect for others was emphasized as essential to building trust and coexistence.
This conference demonstrated how Gakurin’s international and practice-oriented education fosters perspectives that extend from personal awakening to society, nations, and the wider world. The graduates are expected to contribute to peaceful and inclusive societies through dialogue and cooperation in their respective contexts.
