THE International Institute of Abhidhamma will host a seminar on Theravada Buddhism at 1pm on June 20, at YMCA Hall in Botahtaung township, Yangon. U Mya Than, the pro-rector of the institute, said the seminar will focus on Theravada Buddhism and the art of living according to the Dhamma (teachings of the Buddha).

“We hold seminars not only about Buddhism but also about other religions like Christianity and Islam for the interest of the public,” he said. “We plan to host more seminars in future because IIA is becoming an important university that can educate people in a wide range of religious topics.”

U Mya Than said the institute’s Applied Abhidhamma diploma course is very popular with students.

“We plan to offer more courses in the future,” he said, adding that analytical and research techniques must be improved in the teaching of Abhidhamma because IIA is involved with activities along with Sitagu International Buddhist Academy, now a member of Association of Theravada Buddhist Universities.

“There will be many activities and challenges for IIA as we work to bring our techniques in line with international standards,” U Mya Than said.

The Abhidhamma is the last of the three books (pitakas, or baskets) of the Pali-language Buddhist canon. It is generally considered to be the most analytical and the most metaphysically challenging of the three volumes.

Anyone interested in applying for courses or visiting the institute’s campus can call 561-650 , 570-837 or 254-102 in Yangon for more information.