Dalai Lama honoured for humanitarian achievements

Southern Cross University has awarded His Holiness, the 14th Dalai Lama Tenzin Gyatso, an Honorary Doctorate in recognition of his humanitarian work and his advocacy of world peace.

The Honorary Doctorate was conferred by the University Chancellor, the Honourable John Dowd AO QC, in Melbourne today (June 8).

The ceremony took place at the Rod Laver Stadium immediately following 'Dialogue with the Dalai L ama', a significant schools event involving 10,000 students and hosted by Rove McManus.

The Dalai Lama is recognised as one of the greatest spiritual leaders and has spread his message of peace, non-violence and compassion throughout the world.

The Dalai Lama has been outspoken in his support of respect and understanding among the different faiths, and has made numerous appearances in interfaith services. He is the author of more than 50 books and has met with presidents, prime ministers and royalty of all major nations, promoting his message of compassion, forgiveness, tolerance, contentment, self discipline and universal responsibility.

His Holiness was born on July 6, 1935, to a farming family at the hamlet of Taktser in north-eastern Tibet. At the age of six he began his monastic education and at the age of 23 was awarded the Lharampa degree, a doctorate of Buddhist philosophy.

In 1989 he was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize. He is also the first Nobel Laureate to be recognised for his concern for global environmental problems.

In June 2006 the Parliament of Canada voted unanimously to make Tenzin Gyatso an honorary citizen of Canada, only the third time in history that the Canadian Government has bestowed this honour. In September 2006 the United States Congress voted to award the Dalai Lama the Congressional Gold Medal.

Professor Paul Clark, Southern Cross University Vice-Chancellor, said the University had placed a strong focus on international peace through the School of Law and Justice and the Centre for Peace and Social Justice. The University was also working towards establishing a Buddhist program.

“The University recognises the tremendous humanitarian achievements of His Holiness and his efforts to spread the message of peace throughout the world,” Professor Clark said.

Media contact: Brigid Veale Southern Cross University communications manager 02 66593006 or 0439 680 748.