International Training to Empower Social and Professional Activities Based on Compassion, Kindness, and Mindfulness
On July 23, 2026, INEB’s Program Director traveled to Sri Lanka to conduct a training workshop for Buddhist monks and lay practitioners. The training was conceived and organized by Venerable Karavilakotuwe Dhammathilaka Thero, Deputy Director of the Ministry of Education, a member of the Sangha for Peace Program, and the Sri Lanka Network of Engaged Buddhists.
This training workshop is designed to cultivate the inner qualities needed for compassionate engagement in both personal and professional life. Drawing from the Theravāda, Zen, and Vajrayāna Buddhist traditions and rooted in the principles of Socially Engaged Buddhism, the workshop follows a coherent pedagogical journey from inner transformation to outer transformation.
The Venerable members of the Sangha, together with the lay practitioners, engaged wholeheartedly in the experiential learning process. Through exercises that encouraged participants to recognize our shared humanity, activities that explored the diverse ways people communicate and respond under stress, and reflections on the moment in which one can pause and consciously choose how to respond to the impulses of greed, hatred, and delusion, all participants embraced the learning journey with openness, curiosity, and kindness.
The workshop also introduced an ecological dishwashing practice using a four-bin system. The venerable monks and lay participants carefully practiced each step, from finishing the food on their plates and removing food scraps before washing to minimizing water use throughout the process. They expressed a clear understanding of how this simple yet meaningful practice could be adapted and implemented in their own temples or workplaces, contributing to environmental sustainability through mindful daily living.
Another key activity invited participants to design a project to support youth in their local communities. This exercise encouraged them to reflect deeply on the needs and challenges facing young people in their respective communities. As each group presented its project, participants learned about the diverse issues affecting different communities while also practicing respect for differing priorities and perspectives.
The workshop concluded with an introduction to analyzing social issues through the framework of the Four Noble Truths. Although time did not permit a deeper exploration of this practice, participants expressed great interest in continuing their learning.
The INEB Program Director will return to Sri Lanka in December to facilitate Part II of the training workshop, building upon the strong foundation established during this first session.
