CCAs of NTU 25’: NTU Buddhist Society
Written by: Wilfred Alexander Lee, Vice-President (Event)
When you hear the name “NTU Buddhist Society,” you might imagine a purely religious club focused on in-depth Buddhist study. But NTUBS is much more than that. I joined without much deep knowledge of Buddhism, and I quickly learnt that this is a warm, inclusive community open to everyone, regardless of background, nationality, or experience. Whether you're exploring Buddhism for the first time or looking for like-minded individuals in your university journey, you’ll find your place here. Along the way, you’ll also build friendships that last beyond university life, like I did here.
Curious About Buddhism? Start Here!
If you’re seeking to deepen your understanding of Buddhism, NTUBS offers many Dharma-based events designed to explore Buddhist teachings in a relatable and engaging way. One of our key initiatives is Bodhi and Kensho sessions, typically held every month or two. These feature guest speakers or fellow members sharing insights on Buddhist concepts and how they apply to daily life. These sessions are open spaces for reflection, learning, and dialogue, regardless of your level of Buddhism knowledge!
Another major event is Buddhist Week, a campus-wide initiative to introduce Buddhism through interactive booths, games and activities. It’s a fun and educational way for the NTU community to learn more about Buddhist practices and values while promoting respectful interfaith understanding.
We also organise retreats to temples, providing a peaceful space to take a break from busy student life. These retreats are usually scheduled over weekends or school holidays, making them accessible for everyone.
Building Bonds Beyond Beliefs
NTUBS isn’t just about spiritual growth – it’s also about bonding, well-being, and giving back. Our Metta volunteering activities offer members the chance to serve the community through efforts like beach cleanups, senior home visits, and children’s engagement. These acts of compassion embody the values of loving-kindness and generosity.
Our Exam Welfare Dinner is one of our most popular events. Members come together to enjoy a free meal, receive welfare packs, and unwind with relaxing activities like assembling 3D wooden puzzles or making terrariums – just in time for the stressful exam season.
Other highlights include Bonding Day, Vesak Day Celebration, and our Anniversary event, often filled with games, team-building activities, and celebrations that strengthen community spirit while keeping us grounded in Dhamma.
Our Flagship Camps
Two of our biggest annual events are Dharma Camp and Camp Nirvana Singapore (CNS). Both are typically held over a weekend from Friday night to Sunday at a temple, with food and accommodation provided.
Dharma Camp, held at the start of Semester 2, offers a deeper dive into Buddhist values through insightful talks, interactive activities, group reflections, and mindfulness practices. It’s a safe space for self-discovery and spiritual growth.
Camp Nirvana Singapore, our orientation camp, welcomes new members into the NTUBS family. Through fun, friendship, and Dhamma, participants gain firsthand experience of what NTUBS is all about. So if you’re curious to find out more, you are welcome to join CNS 2025 from 22nd to 24th August! (Details to be published on our Linktree and social media soon!)
Connecting with the Buddhist World
NTUBS also actively collaborates with other Buddhist organisations across Singapore. We participate in inter-university events, large-scale celebrations, and special workshops, giving members opportunities to meet peers from different institutions and experience diverse practices within the Buddhist tradition. These external engagements broaden our members’ horizons and deepen their sense of connection with the wider Buddhist youth network.
So, why join NTUBS?
Great news – no requirements needed to join as our member, just a willingness to participate and learn at your own time! Once you become a member, all of our events are free to attend. Whether you’re here to explore Buddhism, make new friends, serve the community, or simply try something new, NTUBS welcomes you.
So, what’s the next step? Do visit our Welcome Week booth (which is happening on 11th to 13th August), check out our Linktree below, or follow us on social media to learn more and sign up as a member.
We can’t wait to welcome you into the NTUBS family!
Other Information:
For enquiries, contact Wilfred Alexander Lee, Vice President (Event) (email: ntubs-vp_event@e.ntu.edu.sg)
For more information (including events and membership sign up), visit linktr.ee/ntubs and our Instagram page @ntubuddhist!
