Three-Year Program in Logic and Debate
The Art of Reasoning in the Nālandā Tradition
un progetto
in collaborazione con
Start date
The inaugural program will begin in October 2025.
Location
The program is principally offered online, accessible from anywhere in the world, and includes optional in-person intensives offered at Sera Jey Monastic University (India) and Lama Tzong Khapa Institute (Italy) for those wishing to engage in extra practice.
Pre-registration
This is free and already open (see details at the bottom of the page).
Registrations
Open September 1 to October 3, 2025.
Tuition fee
The inaugural program will be offered at the nominal cost of €1 per day, guaranteed for the full three years of the program.
Open Day
Free online presentations introducing the program will be held on: English: Friday September 5 at 15:00 CEST (09:00 EDT, 18:30 IST); Italian: Saturday September 6 at 15:00 CEST (09:00 EDT, 18:30 IST).
What It Is and Why It Might Interest You
In this tradition, debate is considered an essential tool for gaining a deep understanding of the Buddhist teachings and for further developing one’s meditative practice as a result.
Debate invites us to recognize both the strengths and vulnerabilities of our logical reasoning, the limited, yet necessary, nature of conceptual thought, and ultimately to turn that very conceptuality against itself in a process of deconstruction that can reveal the truth beyond it.
In addition to holding a central place on the Buddhist path, the practice of debate serves as a powerful tool for sharpening critical thinking, cultivating active listening, and engaging with one’s own assumptions—both explicit and implicit.
The Program is primarily offered online, is available in both Englishand Italian, and includes the option of attending in-person intensives at major Buddhist institutions in Italy and India.
Con un costo simbolico di 1 euro al giorno*, il programma include:
- Weekly classes;
- Weekly supervised practice sessions;
- Additional self-guided practice sessions;
- Carefully selected study materials;
- Access to an international community of people engaged in study, practice, and research.
*(365 euros per year)
An Ancient Practice
The roots of Buddhist debate go back to Classical India and in particular the vibrant philosophical environment of the monastic university of Nālandā, which was active from the 5th century CE onward. At this great center of study and practice—where masters such as Dharmakīrti, Candrakīrti, and Śāntarakṣita once taught — philosophical inquiry was considered an integral part of the path to awakening.
Under the guidance of these great paṇḍitāḥ, generations of Buddhist practitioners trained to refine their understanding of reality by comparing various interpretations of the Buddha’s teachings. Their goal was not merely doctrinal but profoundly existential: to cultivate an authentic and transformative view of reality.
From its very beginning, the Buddhist tradition placed rational inquiry at the core of its methodology. Rather than relying on faith or scriptural authority, it emphasizes a clear and careful examination of every claim, including those made by the Buddha himself sūtra who famously advised his disciples:“Do not accept my words out of faith. Instead, examine them as a goldsmith tests gold — by cutting, rubbing, and melting it — and only then accept them as true.”
(Gaṇḍavyūha Sūtra)
In this way, Buddhist debate is neither a clash of opinions nor a rhetorical exercise. It is a rigorous dialogue with one’s own thinking — a structured method for uncovering faulty assumptions, testing one’s beliefs, and exploring the limits and potentials of any conceptual perspective. It is a practice of intellectual honesty, active listening, and mindful presence — one that seeks truth not in order to defeat an opponent, but to transform the mind itself.
Why Study Debate Today
The 14th Dalai Lama himself has repeatedly emphasized the importance of debate and logical analysis, stating:
“The Buddha’s teaching is about training the mind, not just on the basis of faith, but through reason and logic.”
(Bodhgaya, January 2018)
Currently, opportunities for non-Tibetan speakers to access formal training in Buddhist debate are limited, for several reasons. On the one hand, outside of the Tibetan-speaking world, few individuals have developed a sufficiently deep understanding of debate to transmit it with accuracy and rigor. On the other hand, translating and adapting the dynamics of debate to modern conceptual and linguistic frameworks presents complex challenges—both theoretical and pedagogical. The Three-Year Program in Logic and Debate has carefully addressed these issues, thanks to the committed efforts of the individuals and institutions who designed the Program.
There is, however, a third point worth considering: learning the art of debate is a demanding exercise that requires time and patience. It invites us to question even our most deeply held cognitive habits and to restructure the way we think. In an era where even in the world of spirituality there is often a preference for easy solutions to life’s difficulties, debate is undoubtedly an uncomfortable practice — one that compels us to face our beliefs, both explicit and implicit, and to recognize their illusory nature.
In this sense, debate is not simply a confrontation between opposing viewpoints—it is a living, dynamic enactment of a dialogue with oneself; it is a tool for exposing deceptive views and arriving, through one’s own effort, at a transformative understanding of reality.
Intended Participants
- Buddhist practitioners;
- Scholars seeking a more technical and in-depth understanding of Buddhist philosophy and dialectical practice;
- Students enrolled in Buddhist study programs that do not include debate;
- Students of Buddhist Studies, Indology, and Tibetan Studies, especially those seeking an emic perspective:
- Individuals interested in classical Indian logic, even beyond the Buddhist context;
- Those passionate about the dialogue between Buddhism, science, and philosophy.
Beyond its specific philosophical and spiritual relevance, debate is also a powerful educational tool in a broader sense. It cultivates critical thinking, communication skills, constructive conflict management , and theability to reason with clarity and compassion. For this reason, the Program is also well suited for:
- Educators and trainers;
- Students of philosophy, cognitive science, and the humanities;
- Helping professionals (psychologists, therapists, counselors, etc.);
- Anyone seeking an intellectually rigorous and personally transformative path.
The Program’s Origins and Collaborations
The Program was born out of a vibrant collaboration among Buddhist, academic, and research institutions committed to making the study of Buddhist debate accessible beyond the monastic world without compromising the depth or rigor of traditional training. It is a unique initiative in which tradition and innovation come together to offer an unprecedented educational experience in Europe, open to students from around the world.
The Program is promoted by the following partners:- Lama Tzong Khapa Institute (Italy). The founding partner of the “Logic and Debate” project, which began here in 2020 under the guidance of Atisha Mathur, the Program’s current main teacher. Thanks to its extensive experience and well-established expertise, the Institute remains a strategic and indispensable partner, playing a key role in the development of the Program and ensuring the authenticity and continuity of the teachings. Furthermore, the Institute is the official retreat center in Italy, offering international students a unique opportunity to deepen their debate practice in an immersive and authentic setting.
- Research Center of the Italian Buddhist Union. As of 2025, the Program has become part of the educational offerings of the Italian Buddhist Union’s Research Center, expanding the Program’s training and research activities on Buddhist debate as well as exploring its potential applications in secular contexts.
- Sera Jey Monastic University (India). Founded in the 15th century in Lhasa (Tibet) and now located in South India, it is one of the foremost Tibetan monastic universities. Here, the practice of debate has been preserved, refined, and transmitted without interruption to this day. The close connection with this institution brings the living expertise of a tradition that has shaped generations of Buddhist scholars and practitioners, while also offering a vibrant setting for some of the Program’s in-person intensives.
- Mind and Life Europe. A strategic partner in the project, Mind and Life Europe brings extensive expertise in fostering the intersection of contemplative practice and scientific research. Its involvement supports the contemporary relevance of the Program and enables integration with interdisciplinary research initiatives aimed at exploring the benefits of debate.
The Introductory Module
This is the starting point of the Program and is designed to offer participants the essential foundations needed to engage in debate in a grounded, gradual, and thought-out way. It is also ideal for those who wish to get a first taste before committing to the full three-year Program, as well as for those who are simply interested in acquiring a basic understanding of Buddhist debate.
The module takes place online over two weekends, for a total of 16 hours of live instructionIt is available in both Italian and English. Its semi-intensive format
is intended to support participants in overcoming the initial challenges of learning debate, which involve learning new ways of structuring thought and engaging in dialogue.
- An introduction to the fundamental concepts of Buddhist logic;
- An introduction to the fundamental concepts of Buddhist logic;
- The basic tools for navigating its language, roles, and interaction dynamics.
This module serves as an ideal entry point: a safe, engaging, and hands-on environment in which to encounter debate. It is open to all, including thosewith no prior background in philosophy or Tibetan Buddhism. Each session combines formal instruction, guided exercises, opportunities for active engagement, and space for questions. Every group is supported by an experienced tutor who will guide participants step by step in both understanding and practice.
This introductory module is an integral part of the three-year curriculum; its completion is required in order to continue with the rest of the Program. Alternatively, it can also be attended as a stand-alone experience.
Dates and Times
The module will be held over two weekend intensives: October 4–5 and October 11–12, 2025, with theoretical and practical lessons organised as follows, for each of the two weekends:| EDT | IST | CEST | SAT / SUN |
| 07:00 – 08:30 | 16:30 – 18:00 | 13:00 – 15:00 | Class |
| 08:30 – 09:00 | 18:00 – 18:30 | 15:00 – 15:30 | Break |
| 09:00 – 10:00 | 18:30 – 19:30 | 15:30 – 16:30 | Debate Practice - A |
| 10:00 – 10:30 | 19:30 – 20:00 | 16:30 – 17:00 | Break |
| 10:30 – 11:30 | 20:00 – 21:00 | 17:00 – 18:00 | Debate Practice - B |
Registration and Fees
For those registering for the full three-year Program, the cost of the introductory module is included in the first annual installment.
For those who wish to attend only the introductory module, the registration fee is €95. If one later decides to register for the full Program, this amount will be fully deducted from the first installment.
Registration will be open from September 1 to October 3, 2025. However, free pre-registration is already available to reserve a spot.
Overview of the Three-Year Program
The Program is available in both English and Italianinglese.
With the exception of the optional in-person intensives (see bottom of the page), /span>all Program activities are conducted online, making the Program accessible to participants worldwide.
After the introductory module, which has a semi-intensive schedule, the remainder of the three-year Program is comprised of two weekly online sessions settimanaliconducted via Zoom:
- A 90-minute theory class) led by the main teacher;
- A 90-minute review session in which students practice debate with one another under the supervision of an experienced tutor.
Recordings and Study Materials
All sessions are recorded and made available to students via Moodle, an intuitive and user-friendly platform. Moodle serves as the main hub for the Program and provides easy access to all the essential resources for successful participation, including:
- Video recordings of all classes and sessions;
- The main textbook;
- Supplementary study materials (texts, concept maps, articles, etc.);
- Organizational update and announcements from the Program’s administrative team.
Registration and Participation
Registration is for the full three-year Program, but tuition fee payments are made annually(i.e. one year at a time).
The Program is designed as a progressive and unified path; therefore, attending only one of the two main modules is not possible..
A final certificate will be issued upon successful completion of the exam at the end of the three-year Program. Participants who, for any reason, choose to withdraw before completing the Program can request an official certificate of participation for the work completed up to that point.
Curriculum Overview
This module focuses on acquiring the fundamental tools of Buddhist debate and is modeled on the training programs of the Tibetan monastic universities, which carry forward the Nālandā tradition of debate. The curriculum has been slightly adapted to ensure accessibility for a lay audience while fully respecting the rigor and depth of the tradition. It forms the theoretical and practical foundations of the entire three-year Program: training one to have precise thinking, clarity in dialogue, and coherence in one’s view.
It will provide solid and progressive training in three key areas:
- Formal logic understanding how to construct a valid line of reasoning;
- Debate structure: learning to formulate questions, objections, and responses in the formal language of debate;
- Buddhist epistemology: deepening one’s understanding of how valid and non-valid sources of knowledge are defined and distinguished within the Buddhist philosophical framework.
Additionally, the module is divided into three main units:
1) Dudra (Collection of Definitions and Syllogisms)
- General introduction
- Divisions of form
- Established bases
- Cause and effect
- Definition and definiendum, one and different
- Generality and instance
- Contradictory and related
- Negative and positive phenomena
- Eliminative engagers
- Identifying Isolates
2)Tarig (Correct Reasons and Argument Structure)
- Introduction on three different reasons and hidden phenomena
- Three modes of a correct reason
- Divisions of correct reasons
- False reasons and their divisions
- Consequences and proof statements
3) Lorig (Study of the Mind and Objects of Consciousness)
- Sevenfold division of consciousness
- Conceptual and non-conceptual consciousness
- Divisions of objects of consciousness
- Brief presentation of mind and mental factors
Module 2 – Applying Debate to Core Concepts in Buddhist Philosophy
In the second module, the skills developed in the first module will be applied to the critical and analytical study of key concepts in the Buddhist worldview. The main reference text is the second chapter of Dharmakīrti’s Pramāṇavārttika, starting with the section on the Four Noble Truths. When necessary, other key subjects from this chapter, beyond those explicitly addressed in the exposition of the Four Noble Truths, will also be included.
The goal is to bring the practice of debate into the heart of Buddhist philosophy and practice, transforming it into a rigorous method for understanding, deconstructing, and reconstructing our perspective on mind, suffering, and liberation.
The module is divided into four main units:
1) First Noble Truth – Suffering
- Study of the nature of suffering
- Analysis of why consciousness cannot be caused by matter
- Arguments supporting the continuity of mind beyond death
2) Second Noble Truth – Causes
- Explanation of mental afflictions
- Mechanisms of karma
- The twelve links of dependent origination
- Refutation of the idea of a permanent creator
3) Third Noble Truth – Cessation
- Logical demonstration of the possibility of eliminating the afflictions
- Analysis of the nature of and conditions for liberation
4) Fourth Noble Truth – The Path
- Exploration of the path toward enlightenment
- Arguments demonstrating the development of direct non-conceptual (yogic) perception of reality
Who Will Guide You Along the Way
Teachers (for main classes and instruction)
- Atisha Mathur – Project Leader and main teacher, designer of the curriculum.
Atisha was born and raised in New Delhi, where he completed his school education. After studying in India, he graduated in 2008 from the University of Naples “L’Orientale” with a degree in South Asian Languages and Literature, specializing in Tibetan Studies. He continued his training with two years at the Central University of Tibetan Studies in Sarnath, Varanasi, where he was introduced to traditional Buddhist scholarship. In 2010, thanks to the encouragement of his teachers and his strong aspiration to pursue traditional Buddhist studies in depth, he was admitted to the Institute of Buddhist Dialectics in Dharamsala (India). There after six years of advanced studies in Prajñāpāramitā and Pramāṇa, he focused on Madhyamaka philosophy.
- Ven. Lobsang Kunsang
Born in La Spezia in 1982, she received monastic ordination from Geshe Jampa Gyatso in 2007. She studied both the FPMT Basic Program and the FPMT Masters Program at the Lama Tzong Khapa Institute. Later, on the advice of her teacher, Kyabje Dagri Rinpoche, she moved to India to reside at Drolmaling, a non-sectarian monastic debate school for Himalayan nuns under the Tibetan Nuns Project. She lived there for about four years, studying Buddhist philosophy and learning the Tibetan language. She also studied in Nepal, at Kopan Nunnery, and has been an active contributor to the “Logic and Debate” course. She is currently continuing her studies at the Institute of Buddhist Dialectics in Dharamsala (India).
Tutors:
(for the supervision of practice sessions)
- Duccio Pescini (Italian language) Henrik Frölund (English language)
Both students of the earlier version of the Program, they trained intensively under the guidance of Atisha Mathur and Lobsang Kunsang. Over the years, they have developed extensive experience, which they now bring to the Program by supervising practice sessions, offering clarifications when needed, and guiding group exercises.
First-Year Schedule
For the English-language Program
In the first year, the main teacher for the English-language course will be Atisha Mathur. Ven. Lobsang Kunsang will contribute to the introductory module and the more advanced phases of the three-year Program.
Classes will be held weekly starting from October 13, 2025, according to the following schedule:
- Theory classes with Ven. Lobsang Kunsang (90 minutes):
Every Friday
20:30–22:00 IST
(17:00–18:30 CEST / 16:00–17:30 CET)
- Practice/Review sessions with Duccio Pescini (90 minutes):
Every Wednesday
21:30–22:00 IST
(17:00–18:30 CEST / 16:00–17:30 CET)
Winter break: December 15, 2025 – January 15, 2026
Summer break: July 15, 2026 – August 15, 2026
For the Italian-language Program
Classes will be held weekly starting from October 13, 2025, according to the following schedule:
- Theory classes with Atisha Mathur (90 minutes)
Every Friday 18:30–20:00 IST (17:00–18:30 CEST / 16:00–17:30 CET)
- Practice/Review sessions with Henrik Frölund (90 minutes)
Every Tuesday 18:30–20:00 IST (17:00–18:30 CEST / 16:00–17:30 CET)
Winter break: December 15, 2025 – January 15, 2026
Summer break: July 15, 2026 – August 15, 2026
Study Debate for One Euro a Day
We believe that studying Buddhism should not be reserved only for the wealthy; philosophy, debate, mindfulness, and critical thinking are for everyone. In this spirit, the UBI Research Center has worked to remove economic barriers while ensuring a high-quality education experience—making the Program accessible for just one euro per day.
- Therefore, the annual tuition fee is €365, payable at the start of each academic year via bank transfer or PayPal. Access to the introductory module is included in the registration for the first year of the Program (at no extra cost). The €365 yearly fee is guaranteed for the duration of the three-year Program.
- The fee for the standalone introductory module is €95. If you later choose to register in the full Program, this amount will be fully deducted from the first year’s tuition fee.
Discounted rates are available for younger participants and ordained practitioners:
For individuals aged 26 or younger, as well as members of the Sangha (ordained monks and nuns), the annual fee is €250.
Exams and Certification
- A midterm exam, held at the end of the first module (after the first 18 months of the Program)
- A final exam, held at the conclusion of the three-year Program, which is required to obtain the final certificate.
Each exam consists of two components:
- A written test, including multiple-choice questions and short open-ended responses, to be completed remotely in real time via an online form.
- An oral test, consisting of a debate session supervised by an evaluation panel composed of teachers and tutors.
Each exam is assessed on a pass/fail basis.
In the event of a failed exam, a remediation plan will be agreed upon. This may include recommendations to review certain subjects and/or retake portions of the Program (at no additional cost). The exam can then be retaken during one of the regularly scheduled makeup sessions, which are designed to offer further opportunities to continue the Program and obtain the final certificate.
The final certificate, granted upon successful completion of the final exam, certifies the completed training within the context of the education and research institutions that promote the Program. While it is not currently academically accredited, the final certificate may hold value in the fields of Buddhist education, interdisciplinary research on contemplative practices, and professional contexts that require skills in reasoning, analytical thinking, active listening, and effective communication.
In-Person Intensive Modules
Each academic year, students will have the opportunity to participate in an optional in-person intensive module lasting approximately two weeks. While strongly encouraged, these experiences are not mandatory and will involve additional costs.
Participation is not required in order to obtain the final certificate and has been made optional to ensure full accessibility to the Program, even for those who, for any reason, may be unable to attend.
These intensive modules are designed to offer an immersive environment in which to:- Deepen and accelerate assimilation of debate practice through intensive and extended engagement for numerous hours over multiple consecutive days;
- Strengthen the sense of community among students, instructors, and tutors through shared learning experiences condiviso;
- Live and practice in a Buddhist setting that inspires and supports the learning process;
- Explore debate in relation to non-traditional themes, fostering dialogue between Buddhist philosophy and contemporary science. Additional topics that may be addressed during these intensives include quantum physics, neuroscience, the nature of consciousness, and the mind–brain relationship.
Italian-Language Intensive Module
The Italian-language intensive module will be led by Atisha Mathur at theLama Tzong Khapa Institute in Pomaia (Italy).
La durata prevista è di dieci giorni, nel mese di agosto 2026. Le date precise, i dettagli organizzativi e i costi saranno pubblicati prossimamente su questa pagina.
English-Language Intensive Module
The English-language intensive module will be led by Atisha Mathur and take place at the renowned Sera Jey Monastic University, in South India, from January 20 – February 10 (2026).
In addition to the opportunity to deepen one’s debate practice under the direct guidance of the main teacher, the stay will include guided visits to key places of monastic life and opportunities to observe traditional debate sessions held by the monks.
Registration and Contact
However, free pre-registration is already available in order to:
- Reserve a spot in the Program;
- Receive updates from the Program’s administrative team and be contacted as soon as registration becomes available.
Pre-registration is non-binding and can be modified or withdrawn at any time by writing to:
corsi@centrostudiubi.it. For any other inquiries, please feel free to contact us at the same email address.
Pre-registration form
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is the Program only for Buddhist practitioners?
No. The Program is open to everyone, including those who do not identify as Buddhist but are interested in philosophy, debate, critical thinking, or meditation. While the approach is deeply rooted in the Buddhist tradition, it welcomes dialogue across diverse cultural and personal backgrounds.
Do I need prior knowledge of Tibetan Buddhism to participate?
No. The Program is suitable for everyone, including those with no background in Buddhism or philosophy. The introductory module provides the essential foundations needed to navigate the language and practice.
In what languages is the Program offered?
The Program is available in both English and Italian. Students may choose their preferred language at the time of registration.
What is the weekly time commitment for the Program?
The Program includes two weekly online sessions: one 90-minute class with the teacher and one 90-minute review session with the tutor. In addition, students are encouraged to dedicate at least 2–3 hours per week to individual study and review of course materials.
Can I participate if I cannot attend every session live?
Yes. All sessions are recorded and made available to registered students. However, for the best results, regular attendance is strongly recommended—also for the review sessions.
Is there an age limit to participate?
No. The Program is open to adults of all ages, as long as they are motivated and willing to engage in the structured and gradual learning path of the Program.
Can I take only the introductory module?
Yes. The introductory module can be taken as a stand-alone course. If you decide to continue with the full three-year Program, the fee for the introductory module will be fully deducted from the Program’s first-year tuition fee.
Do I need to register now?
No, but you can pre-register for free to reserve a spot and receive updates. Registration will open on September 1 and close on October 3, 2025.
Can I participate if I live outside of Europe?
Yes. The Program is fully online (except for the optional in-person intensives) and the class times are scheduled to accommodate time zones ranging from the Americas to East Asia.
Can I register after the first module has already started?
We typically do not accept new students after the first few months of the first module.
