Foundation Stone Laid for Wat Charoen Wannaram and Lampang Theological College
A foundation stone ceremony was held in Lampang for a new temple and theological college aimed at expanding Buddhist education in Northern Thailand.
On October 3, 2026, a foundation stone ceremony took place for Wat Charoen Wannaram in Phichai, Lampang Province. Representing the Supreme Patriarch of Thailand, Somdet Phra Maha Wirawong presided over the event. The project is supported by the Siriwattana Bhakdi Foundation and involves the establishment of the Lampang Theological College under Mahamakut Buddhist University.
This initiative serves to fulfill the Supreme Patriarch’s vision of increasing access to higher education in Buddhist studies, philosophy, and related disciplines for monks, novices, and the general public in Northern Thailand. By creating a regional center for learning, the university aims to reduce travel barriers for students and foster a community grounded in both wisdom and ethics. Officials from the Office of the Permanent Secretary to the Prime Minister were also in attendance to mark the commencement of the construction.
For residents and visitors, this development signifies a new cultural and educational landmark in Lampang. While the ceremony marks the official start of the project, details regarding the timeline for the completion of the temple and the official opening date for the college’s academic programs remain to be confirmed by the university and the foundation.
