The African Buddhist Seminary, ABS, was established by Ven. Hui Li to realize the compassionate vow of Master Hsing Yun: "Let us bring the Buddha's light to the three realms, that the Dharma waters may flow throughout the five continents.

     The Fo Guang Shan Nan Hua Temple African Buddhist Seminary began recruiting students in October 1994. By the year 2001, 164 students from Brazil, Israel, Congo/Brazzaville, Kenya, Madagascar, Malawi, New Zealand, Rwanda, South Africa, Tanzania, and Zimbabwe have come to study Buddhism at the seminary.

     Students who come to the Seminary will live as temporary novice monks for three years. Their home will be the Seminary. They will live, study and grow there. The objective of the seminary is to provide people of all nations with an environment to develop their full potential. Emphasis is also placed on teaching the students valuable skills that they can use throughout their lives.

      The first year is Orientation to Buddhism, the second year is Chinese Language and Culture, and the third year is deeper level Buddhist studies and philosophy. After completing the three-year program we will offer appropriate students the opportunity to study at the Fo Guang Shan Buddhist Monastery in Taiwan. Upon completion of their studies at Fo Guang Shan they will return to Nan Hua Temple for one year experiential learning to help teach Buddhism in Africa.

     The Seminary places equal importance on teaching the Buddhist Dharma as well as its practical application. Novices gain theoretical knowledge as well as practical and social skills necessary for leading a tranquil, pure, unselfish and productive life.