Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay’s talk on ‘Enlightened Leadership’ at Chulalongkorn University in Bangkok today received a rousing response from the attendees. In his talk, the prime minister stated that the overall purpose of academic excellence, research and innovation, cultural transformation, enhancing global partnerships, engaging with communities, and promoting sustainable development is to produce leaders.
Professor Surakiart Sathirathai, the chairperson of the Chulalongkorn University Council, received the prime minister at the university.
After signing the university’s visitor book, the prime minister interacted with the university council chairperson, acting president, and other invitees.
While speaking to dignitaries, faculty, and students, the prime minister used the analogy of Bodhisattvas or Jangchusempas to describe the qualities leaders need.
“We have many, very good Bodhisattvas, and we draw inspiration from them. But there is a group of Bodhisattvas, the Trinity of Bodhisattvas, three bodies of Bodhisattvas that I consider special in the area of leadership… The first one, Jampelyang, is a Bodhisattva of wisdom. The second, Chanadorjee, is the Bodhisattva of courage. The third, Chenrizee, is a Bodhisattva of compassion. Wisdom, courage, and compassion.”
He also said that leaders should understand the current situation, envision a better future, and guide people toward that future.
“It will be painful to go out of their comfort zone into a new place. The objective of which? The goal of which? The idea of which is that it is a better place. Wisdom. Courage. Compassion. But driven by selfless service. Like the bodhisattva. These are the attributes of what I call enlightened leaders. To be an enlightened leader, you must practice the attributes.”
In his closing statement, the prime minister said that Chulalongkorn University should not forget to produce leaders as they continue striving to be a centre of academic excellence.
“As you continue to nurture innovation and research, partner with communities, enhance global partnership, develop sustainability, and protect your cultural heritage. Don’t forget to produce leaders. Don’t forget to produce enlightened leaders. Leaders who are fearless. Leaders who are wise. Leaders who are compassionate, who practice the attributes of Bodhisattvas.”
The prime minister also took questions from the audience, addressing topics ranging from the purpose of his visit to Thailand to the role of artificial intelligence in leadership.
The university also hosted a reception for the prime minister.
Sherub Dorji, Bangkok
