Study and examinations
Funding helps meet the practical costs attached to advanced study and the examinations that complete the Geshema path.
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Women in the lineage
Female Geshe-mas and Buddhist nuns
The Geshema path takes decades of disciplined study. Maitri helps remove practical barriers so women can complete the highest level of scholarly training in the Tibetan Buddhist tradition.
Creating the conditions for women to complete their training
In 2016, the first women were awarded the Geshema degree. Reaching that milestone requires years of study, debate, examinations, and commitment. For many women, the intellectual work is only part of the challenge: stable housing, medical care, study expenses, and examination costs can determine whether the path remains possible.
The Maitri Project supports female monastics and women pursuing the Geshema degree across Asia. We also help practitioners without the protection or financial backing of a large institution, including Western monastics whose modest needs can otherwise interrupt a life devoted to practice.
Housing and healthcare
Safe housing and necessary medical care protect the stability that long-term scholarship and practice require.
Direct relationships
Maitri remains in relationship with practitioners and institutions so support responds to needs identified by monastics themselves.
Help a woman continue her path
Your gift supports housing, healthcare, study, and examination costs.