The World's 40 Most Religious Colleges

11. Buddhist Institute of Phnom Penh – Phnom Penh, Cambodia

The Buddhist Institute of Phnom Penh serves as a vital center for preserving and advancing Theravada Buddhist traditions in Cambodia. Established in the 1930s, it plays a crucial role in the study and promotion of Buddhist philosophy, literature, and culture. The institute’s serene campus, surrounded by lush gardens and traditional Khmer architecture, provides an ideal setting for contemplation and learning. Students engage in a curriculum that combines Pali literature, meditation techniques, and Buddhist ethics with courses in history, linguistics, and cultural studies. Monks, scholars, and laypeople alike benefit from the institute’s resources, which include a vast library of Buddhist scriptures and research materials. Community outreach is a core component of the institute’s mission. Students participate in initiatives that promote mindfulness, conflict resolution, and social harmony, applying Buddhist principles to address societal challenges. By nurturing both academic inquiry and spiritual growth, the Buddhist Institute of Phnom Penh serves as a beacon of hope and wisdom in Cambodia’s cultural landscape.