Introduction
Humanitarian action to alleviate the suffering of victims of armed conflict has been a preoccupation of Humankind throughout history. Rules that limit the use of violence and protect the life and dignity of those not participating in hostilities have been laid down in all cultures and civilisations. In the modern world, many rules, and customs to protect human life and dignity in times of war have been codified in International Humanitarian Law (IHL) – and the 1949 Geneva Conventions, the main instruments of IHL, are universally accepted by all States.
The interface between International Humanitarian Law (IHL) and Buddhism is considerable, and those limitations can be alleviated, and adherence to common humanitarian norms improved, by more energetic engagement with religious circles, thereby reconnecting IHL to its religious roots. Religion laid many of the foundations of IHL and still possesses the influence and moral authority to back it up. The immense resources of religions and thereby mobilized to complement and reinforce IHL, and to regulate armed conflict on their own terms.
To achieve the above aim, the University of Colombo and the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) commenced engagement with academic experts in International Humanitarian Law and Buddhism to develop a course on identifying convergence between International Humanitarian Law and Buddhism.
Objectives
(a) To disseminate and promote knowledge on the interface between IHL and Buddhism
(b) To ensure this knowledge is sustained within Sri Lanka
(c) To encourage undergraduates to learn IHL in their post-graduate studies
(d) To encourage law professionals, military, and postgraduate students to engage themselves in research and dialogue in relation to the interface between IHL and Buddhism.
Who Should Apply?
Anyone who is interested to learn about the convergence of IHL and Buddhism can apply for the course, though candidates who possesses a sound knowledge of Buddhism and/or law will be prioritized. In particular, Buddhist Monks, lawyers, military personnel and professionals working in governmental institutions, civil society and academia are encouraged to apply.
Non-Sri Lankans are encouraged to apply if they can properly attend (online) the course and follow the study program remotely. CSHR and ICRC will jointly select successful candidates from the applications based on the candidates’ suitability.
Program Highlights
(a) Scholarship Opportunities: Financial aid is available for deserving Local candidates, including those from diverse geographical backgrounds and genders.
(b) Flexible Learning: Offered in English and in hybrid mode
(c) Accredited Program: Meets Sri Lanka Qualifications Framework (SLQF) Level 1 requirements.
(d) Experienced Faculty: Taught by renowned academics and practitioners.
(e) Interactive Learning: Participant-centered approach with workshops and group activities.
A) This Programme is intended to:
(i) To disseminate and promote knowledge on interface between International Humanitarian Law (IHL) and Buddhism
(ii) To encourage professionals in law, military, post-graduate students and others. Who are interested in engaging themselves in dialogue and research in relation to interface between IHL and Buddhism
B) The candidates are expected to:
(i) Explain the basic principles of International Humanitarian Law (IHL)
(ii) Describe the basic principles of Buddhism
(iii) Examine the relevance of selected Buddhist principles on means and methods of warfare under IHL
(iv) Apply Buddhist principles to mitigate the sufferings during armed conflicts
a) Completion of junior secondary level, which is Grade 9 or an equivalent.
or
b) Completion of primary education and certified work experience equivalent to a minimum period of two years in a particular field may also be considered as an equivalent qualification for admission to SLQF level 1 provided that the applicant is at least 16 years of age.
or
c) Any other relevant qualifications and/or experiences accepted by the Academic Committee of the CSHR and approved by the Faculty Board of the Faculty of Law.
And
A good working knowledge of the language in which the course will be followed.
Application Fees: Rs.500
Course Fee:
Local Candidates – Rs. 20,000
Foreign Candidates – Rs. 40,000
Scholarships (Full/partial) are available for local applicants based on criteria
Completed application along with certified copies of the certificates and the payment receipt (Non-refundable application fee) to be scanned and emailed to ihlb@cshr.cmb.ac.lk and should be sent by registered post on or before 20th November 2024
Payment of the application fee can be done through the following options.
Option 1:
Paid to any branch of the People’s Bank, in favour of ‘University of Colombo – Main Collection Account’ to the Accounts number stated in the application form.
Please note that you cannot make direct transfers through online banking to the account number given above and can only make the transaction through the web portal mentioned in the option 2.
Option 02
Through the university web portal available at https://pay.cmb.ac.lk/ (Online payment)
Use the following details;
Fee Type : Application Fee-CSHR
Account reference Number: The account number indicated in the application form
Apply Now!
Contact Us:
Telephone: 0112500879 / 0112503017
WhatsApp: 0776596256