23 October 2026 | Nagarjuna Training Institute, Nagaloka, Nagpur
Nagarjuna Training Institute (NTI) organized an interactive session with Mr. Vidyananda on 23 October 2026 at the Nagaloka campus. The session focused on personal development, ethical decision-making, social responsibility, and the importance of developing clear principles to guide one’s choices in life.
Vidyananda (KV Soon), is an Executive Committee member of International Network of Engaged Buddhists (INEB). Vidyananda is Buddhist practitioner and entrepreneur who has been teaching Buddhism for many years. Together, Wai Leng & KV Soon founded Learning Beyond Schooling to encourage and explore alternatives in education, i.e., homeschooling and other approaches and help parents understand their children, as well as maximize their potentials. He continues to be very passionate in the use of technology in community development, teaching and education, leading to spiritual & social change.
The programme began with a welcome address by Ms. Renuka, who introduced the speaker and welcomed him to interact with the students.
Personal Journey: Learning, Experience and Professional Growth
During the session, Mr. Vidyananda shared experiences from his personal and professional journey. He spoke about the educational challenges faced by his family, particularly his father’s struggles to access schooling, and explained how these experiences influenced his own approach to education and life.
He described how he developed his professional career by combining his interest in Buddhist studies with Information Technology. He also shared his experience of spending eight years living in a Buddhist institution and his involvement with the International Network of Engaged Buddhists (INEB) since 1986.
Drawing on his professional experience, including his work as an advisor to the Malaysian government in developing digital services, he highlighted the importance of self-directed learning, determination, and continuously acquiring new skills. He mentioned that much of his knowledge of Information Technology was gained through independent study and practical experience.
Making Choices with Social Responsibility
A central theme of the session was the importance of making thoughtful choices and understanding their wider impact on society.
Mr. Vidyananda encouraged students to identify their interests and aspirations while considering how their decisions could contribute to the well-being of others. He emphasized that individual choices should not be viewed in isolation but should also consider their impact on future generations and their opportunities.
He discussed how social challenges extend beyond individual experiences and can be rooted in broader structural inequalities. He referred to discrimination based on gender, social status, and economic circumstances, as well as systemic issues such as patriarchy and the caste system in India.
The discussion encouraged students to examine these challenges critically and understand the importance of creating a more equal and inclusive society.
Developing Strong Principles and Personal Discipline
Mr. Vidyananda highlighted the importance of having clear ethical principles in both personal and professional life. Drawing from his own experiences, he spoke about maintaining integrity, avoiding corruption, and ensuring that professional relationships and institutional connections are never misused for personal advantage.
He also encouraged students to cultivate passion in their chosen fields, manage anger constructively, remain calm when facing difficulties, and develop perseverance through repeated efforts.
He emphasized that meaningful achievements require patience, consistency, and a willingness to learn from experience rather than giving up when challenges arise.
Interactive Discussion with Students
The session included an interactive question-and-answer segment in which students raised questions about their personal aspirations, career choices, challenges, and responsibilities.
Mr. Vidyananda responded by sharing practical guidance and encouraging students to make decisions based on their interests, abilities, and ethical values. He also expressed his willingness to remain in contact with the students and continue supporting their learning and development.
Conclusion
The programme concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Ms. Abhaya, who expressed appreciation to Mr. Vidyananda for sharing his valuable experiences, insights, and guidance with the students. She also thanked everyone who contributed to the programme.
The session concluded with a group photograph.
The interaction provided students with an opportunity to reflect on their personal goals, professional aspirations, ethical responsibilities, and the importance of contributing positively to society. It reinforced Nagarjuna Training Institute’s commitment to leadership development, critical thinking, ethical education, and preparing young people to become responsible contributors to social progress.
