Jain Journal 1993 01

SR No.: 520109
Original Sutra Author: N/A
Author: Jain Bhawan Publication
Publisher: Jain Bhawan Publication
Publication Year: 1993
Total Pages: 57
Language: English
Classification: Magazine, India_Jain Journal, & India
File Size: 4 MB

Page 29

138
For example, we do not have enough accessible literature, enough manpower-scholars and students-and a negligible number of universities offering courses on Jainism.
JAIN JOURNAL
We believe the first step in bringing Jaina principles to western audiences, where they can be critically studied, examined, accepted or rejected, is through the establishment of courses of studies on Jainism at academic institutions of repute with large student populations.
I think the greatest error that Jaina community in India has committed is failing to establish programs of Jaina studies in Jaina educational institutions. There are hundreds of Jaina colleges across India. Few of them if any, impart any instructions in Jainology. Some of these colleges do not even have majority of Jain staffs.
An all-India Jain educational and cultural foundation is the most appropriate authority to correct this wrong. The first step would be to take a census of all Jain colleges. This foundation can then appoint a professor of Jaina studies in all Jain colleges. Let's say there are a thousand Jain colleges and the cost of appointing a Jain professor is 24,000 rupees (i.e., 500 pounds sterling) per year. There must be one thousand Jains in Britain, Belgium, Canada, USA, India etc. who would be willing to establish Jaina chairs in Indian colleges.
The establishment of such courses will encourage scholars and students associated with these courses to undertake further study and research in Jainism.
We should also impress upon appropriate educational authorities to include Jainism as a part of World Religions courses. Jainism should also receive full and fair attention in Indian religions courses.
We also need to encourage young people, particularly Jains, to subscribe to such courses of study as will introduce them to Jain religion and philosophy with sympathy and understanding.
Furthermore, we need to establish a scholarship fund that will encourage mature students to undertake post-graduate study in Jaina studies.