Afghanistan's Journey Towards Peace with HWPL

Afghanistan, a nation nestled against the Iranian border in the Middle East, is a country where many citizens fervently desire social peace. Despite challenges such as the Taliban's suppression of women's education, dedicated educators in Afghanistan are actively working towards peace and education in collaboration with the global civilian peace organization, Heavenly Culture, World Peace, Restoration of Light (HWPL), led by Chairman Man Hee Lee.

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Afghanistan’s work toward Peace Education

In the wake of the Taliban's resurgence in August 2021, following the withdrawal of NATO forces, the socio-political landscape of Afghanistan underwent significant changes. The Taliban altered the country's name from the 'Islamic Republic of Afghanistan' to the 'Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan' and imposed restrictions, particularly on women's education, under Islamic law.

Despite these challenges, an educator, greatly touched by HWPL’s peace movement, have taken a proactive role in imparting HWPL peace education to the youth. The impact of HWPL’s peace education on students' attitudes and academic performance has been remarkable, transforming classrooms into hubs of improved discipline and enhanced learning.

Mohammad Nader Azadfana, the principal of Mukta School in Afghanistan, shared his experience of implementing HWPL's peace education curriculum, emphasizing the positive changes observed in students' behavior and academic achievements. He was appointed as HWPL's Peace Ambassador in August 2022 and passionately advocates for peace education, even presenting on the topic at the UN Human Rights Council's 52nd session's side event on March 31st, focusing on "The Right to Education for the People of Afghanistan."

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Path toward Peace beyond Classrooms

The commitment of the local educator to peace education is evident in their active participation in events like the Peace Summit and their eagerness to incorporate HWPL's peace education into their curriculum. Schools such as Mukta School have become focal points for commemorating global peace initiatives like the Peace Summit, providing students with opportunities to engage in peace activities.

HWPL's efforts extend beyond individual schools, as demonstrated by the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signed with various local education institutions. The collaboration includes teacher training sessions, educational exchanges, and the adoption of HWPL's peace education curriculum in multiple schools, such as New Alpala High School, Mukta School, and Amazon English Academy.

In addition to formal education, HWPL's peace initiatives extend to practical activities, such as the Eco-plogging event held on August 13th during the 9th-anniversary celebration of the Peace Summit. Students who received HWPL's peace education actively participated, engaging in activities like jogging while picking up litter, contributing to environmental improvement and promoting a peaceful world.

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Afghanistan's journey toward peace education, led by committed educators and supported by HWPL's initiatives, reflects a resilient spirit in the face of adversity. The transformative impact on students and the collaboration between local education institutions and HWPL underscore the potential for positive change, fostering hope for a peaceful and harmonious future in Afghanistan.