Spreading the culture of peace in Zambia together with HWPL

Amidst the prolonged challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, many students have found themselves unable to attend school, excluded from their fundamental right for education. In response, HWPL has initiated the 'Teaching Goes On (TGO)' campaign worldwide, emphasizing the necessity of continuous education even amid the significant obstacle of the pandemic. Particularly in Zambia, where schools and educational institutions are lacking, the TGO campaign has gained traction. Alongside peace education, activities such as drawing and singing contests have been organized, creating a satisfying atmosphere for both teachers and students.

 

Image from Cheonji Ilbo

HWPL organized two contests – drawing and singing – as a part of TGO campaign aiming to raise awareness among children about the desire for peace. The drawing contest served as a means to impart the values of peace learned by students attending school to those who cannot. 397 students from nine schools have participated in the TGO Drawing Contest, receiving peace education through artistic expression. 2,208 students from seven schools have participated in the singing contest. This contest was organized after conducting peace educations in classes, aiming to spread messages of peace through music. Both of contests are great examples of HWPL’s mission for spreading a culture of peace.

Image from HWPL Facebook

Moreover, as a part of continuing their effort to spread the culture of peace, HWPL conducted peace citizen education three times online, involving 30 individuals from various sectors in Zambia and Malawi. The program opened the stage to discuss ways to achieve a harmonious society in these countries where there are ongoing conflicts and discrimination which comes from the historical context of these nations, countries emerged from combining different colonials without regard for ethnic diversity.

Image from HWPL Facebook

Through these initiatives, HWPL addressed the importance of diversity recognition, the value of harmony, and the necessity of coexistence, fostering a mindset shift towards peace. Teachers who received peace education training expressed their eagerness to share their newly acquired knowledge with others, emphasizing the transformative nature of peace education in promoting understanding and cooperation among diverse communities.

Image from Cheonji Ilbo

Currently, 21 schools and organizations has signed MOUs with HWPL and 56 local teachers have been appointed as peace educators which became the foundation for peace education in Zambia. HWPL's endeavors in Zambia signify a step towards fostering peace through education, demonstrating the potential for positive change when communities come together to prioritize harmony and mutual respect. As educators and students alike embrace the values of peace, they contribute to building a brighter and more inclusive future for all.