Professor Colin Butler, Emeritus Professor at the Australian National University, visited the College of Buddhist Studies on May 13 together with his wife for an academic exchange. The visit was hosted by full-time faculty member Professor Lin Hsin-yi, who guided the guests throughout the program and facilitated an in-depth dialogue integrating academic, cultural, and Buddhist educational perspectives.

During the exchange, Professor Butler shared insights from his long-term research on public health and climate change, while also reflecting on his enduring interest in Buddhism since his youth. He expressed particular interest in the historical interactions between Chinese Buddhism and Tibetan Buddhism. Professor Lin, in turn, introduced her own research in the fields of Buddhism and medical humanities, leading to a dynamic and intellectually enriching discussion between both parties.

Professor Lin subsequently guided Professor Butler and his wife on a tour of the College of Buddhist Studies, introducing the academic structure of the Department of Buddhist Studies, including its curriculum, scholarship opportunities, international student body, and faculty specializations. The visit highlighted the college’s diverse and internationalized learning environment.

During the tour, special attention was also given to the Department of Buddhist Studies’ Xingmen Education program, as well as the library’s collection of various editions of the Buddhist Canon (Tripiṭaka). In the course of the exchange, Professor Butler expressed his intention to donate part of his personal collection of Tibetan Buddhist materials, hoping to contribute to the advancement of Buddhist academic research.

This visit not only strengthened international academic exchange, but also opened further possibilities for future collaboration in cross-cultural and Buddhist studies research.