International Conference at the University of Oxford

Reported by: Usha Chakma
As a Ph.D. candidate in Buddhist Studies at the International Buddhist College (IBC), I had the opportunity to participate in the international conference “Asian Global Networks and Relationships in the Modern Spread of Buddhism” held from 30 June to 1 July 2026 at the Department of Continuing Education, Rewley House, University of Oxford, United Kingdom.

The conference was organized by the Faculty of Asian and Middle Eastern Studies, University of Oxford, and the Yin-Cheng Buddhist Studies Network in collaboration with the London Buddhist Vihara and the American Buddhist Study Center (ABSC). The programme brought together scholars, researchers, monastics, and graduate students from around the world and featured 19 research paper presentations and three keynote lectures.

During the conference, I presented my paper, “Reviving the Bhikkhunī Saṅgha in the Chittagong Hill Tracts through Global Networks.” My presentation explored how international Buddhist networks have contributed to the revival of the Bhikkhunī ordination tradition in the Chittagong Hill Tracts of Bangladesh. Presenting my research at the University of Oxford was one of the most memorable moments of my academic journey. The thoughtful questions, comments, and discussions with scholars provided valuable feedback and encouraged me to look at my research from new perspectives.

One of the most rewarding parts of the conference was meeting scholars and researchers whose work I had studied during my Ph.D. I am especially grateful to Dr. Pyi Phyo Kyaw, Professor Kate Crosby, and Mr. Bikash Bhattacharya for their kindness and support throughout the conference. I also enjoyed spending time with Professor Catherine Gidney while exploring Oxford. In addition, I had the honour of meeting and exchanging ideas with Professor Steven Kemper, Professor Elizabeth Harris, Professor Mark Unno, Berthe Jansen, Aaron Shōken Proffitt, William McGrath, Tony Scott, Hoshina Seki, Amal Jivaka Abeyawardene, and Dr. Enrique Galván-Álvarez. These conversations became one of the highlights of my visit and broadened my understanding of current research in Buddhist Studies.

After the conference, I participated in the Archival Research Workshop. The workshop introduced practical methods of archival research that will be valuable for my future work. I also had the opportunity to explore the University of Oxford. Visiting Oxford’s historic colleges, libraries, and museums gave me a deeper appreciation of its rich academic heritage. After my stay in Oxford, I visited the University of Cambridge and spent a few days in London, where I experienced some of Britain’s historic universities, landmarks, and cultural heritage.

Overall, this conference was one of the most meaningful experiences of my academic life. It gave me the opportunity to present my research at one of the world’s leading universities, learn from internationally respected scholars, and build valuable academic friendships. Finally, I would like to express my sincere gratitude to my Ph.D. supervisor, Dr. Ooi Eng Jin, for informing me about this conference and encouraging me to participate. I am also thankful to the International Buddhist College for supporting my academic journey. This experience has inspired me to continue my research and strengthen my commitment to contributing to the field of Buddhist Studies.