Kadampa Buddhism was first introduced into the west in 1977 by the renowned Buddhist Master Geshe Kelsang Gyatso. Since then Geshe Kelsang has worked tirelessly to spread Kadampa Buddhism throughout the world by giving extensive teachings, writing many profound books on Kadampa Buddhism, and establishing over 300 meditation centres. Each centre offers study programmes, meditation instruction, and retreats for all levels of practitioner. The emphasis is on integrating Buddha's teachings into daily life to solve our problems and to spread lasting peace and happiness throughout the world. The New Kadampa Tradition (NKT) is an association of Buddhist Centres and practitioners that derive their inspiration and guidance from the example of the ancient Kadampa Buddhist Masters and their teachings, as presented by Geshe Kelsang Gyatso. The Kadampa Buddhism of the NKT is an entirely independent Buddhist tradition and has no political affiliations.