Cultivating a Culture of Peace through HWPL's Peace Education in Malawi

In the quest for a harmonious world, organizations like the Heavenly Culture, World Peace, Restoration of Light (HWPL) play a pivotal role in fostering peace education. This article sheds light on HWPL's peace education, emphasizing its purpose, criteria for peace teachers, and the theme of the 9th World Peace Conference. Delving into the impact of HWPL's initiatives, we specifically explore the case of Malawi and the transformative journey undertaken by the Jinwang'a High School under the guidance of its principal, Mr. Steven Kungarla.

Image from HWPL Africa Facebook 

Malawi as a Country

Malawi, known as the "Warm Heart of Africa," boasts breathtaking landscapes, with Lake Malawi, the third-largest freshwater lake in Africa, serving as a picturesque backdrop. The nation's diverse population, encompassing various races and cultural backgrounds, contributes to its rich tapestry.

Image from Pixabay

HWPL’s Peace Education

HWPL's peace education aims to instill a profound understanding of the value of peace in both students and teachers. A key feature is the inclusivity of all, as HWPL Peace Schools serve as platforms for individuals to internalize the significance and worth of life and lay the foundation for treating all humanity with dignity and equality. Many teachers participating in HWPL’s Peace Education speak with same voice: HWPL Peace Education is an effective tool in recognizing the values of peace and spreading a culture of peace.

Image from HWPL Africa Facebook 

Implementation of HWPL’s Peace Education in Malawi

Inspired by the call to action during the 9th HWPL World Peace Conference, Mr. Steven Kungarla, the principal of Jinwang'a High School in Blantyre, Malawi, swiftly introduced HWPL's peace education upon returning home. Kungarla shares, "The most impressive part was Chairman Man Hee Lee's speech, urging not to delay peace activities but to start them 'right now, today.'" This impassioned urge from Chairman Man Hee Lee spurred Kungarla to implement HWPL's peace education in his school.

 

Image from Cheonji Ilbo - Principal Kungarla participating in the 9th HWPL Peace Summit

Peace Education through Peace Club Activities

Leveraging Malawi's vibrant culture of extracurricular activities, Principal Kungarla established a "Peace Club" within Jinwang'a High School. On October 13^th, 2024, not only 'HWPL ZGSS Peace Club' opening ceremony was hold but also Jinwang'a High School signed an MOU for HWPL Peace Education. During the opening ceremony, Principal Kungarla gave a speech emphasizing the role of the club in promoting peace education within the school. He highlighted the importance of addressing issues like school violence and harassment, ultimately protecting students from such difficulties and creating a peaceful environment. ZGSS Peace Club is serving as a platform for students to actively engage in HWPL's peace education, fostering a sense of unity and understanding among diverse individuals.

 

Image from Cheonji Ilbo - Picture from the opening ceremony of ZGSS Peace Club

Raising Peace Educators

Kungarla, having become the first to implement peace education in Malawi, is committed to spreading the initiative further. Receiving the training for Peace Educator himself, he has initiated training programs to equip ten teachers in his school with the skills and knowledge required to impart peace education to students. Reflecting on the impact, one teacher stated, "Today’s youth, when instilled with peace, will carry the same spirit forward, creating a peaceful society for future generations." Teachers also expressed admiration for HWPL and Chairman Manhee Lee’s efforts towards achieving peace.

Image from Cheonji Ilbo - Picture from the opening ceremony of ZGSS Peace Club 

Cultivating a Culture of Peace through HWPL's Peace Education in Malawi

As Malawi strides towards a brighter future, the integration of HWPL's peace education sets the stage for the cultivation of a culture of peace. With initiatives like the "Peace Club" and dedicated training programs, Principal Kungarla envisions a ripple effect, spreading peace education across Blantyre and potentially the entire nation. Quoting his vision for the future, Kungarla emphasizes, "As the next generation of peace educators, you must not only execute peace activities in various forms but also take peace education classes. The World Peace Summit in 2024 awaits, and Malawi's Ministry of Peace Education hopes for a substantial participation from Blantyre." In a nation known for its natural beauty, Malawi is now becoming a beacon of hope for peace education, proving that even in the heart of Africa, the seeds of peace can be sown, nurtured, and spread throughout society.