In a first, female Buddhist monks awarded doctorates

Tibetan spiritual leader, the Dalai Lama, on Thursday, awarded the Geshema (equivalent to doctorate in Buddhist philosophy) to around 20 female monks, a first in Tibetan history.

The monks were awarded certificates along with a graduation cap in the traditional red and yellow colours at a convocation held at the Drepung Lachi monastery.

Among the recipients were five from the nunnery at the Mundgod camp and 15 from Himachal Pradesh, who have completed 18 years studying Buddhist philosophy.

Speaking on the occasion, the Dalai Lama said men and women have equal rights in Buddhist studies and that he was happy to award the degrees to female monks. Lobsang Sangay, the Tibetan prime minister-in-exile and other dignitaries were present on the occasion.