The Impact of HWPL Peace Education in Ivory Coast and Papua New Guinea

Ivory Coast and Papua New Guinea are nations marked by political instability, ethnic conflicts, and internal strife, fostering a deep yearning for peace and reconciliation. Consequently, citizens of both countries hold a profound interest in peace. In these regions of West Africa and the southwestern Pacific, HWPL's peace education has become a beacon of hope for locals. Particularly, individuals exposed to HWPL peace education express positive responses, acknowledging the importance of teaching peace for future generations.

Image from HWPL Homepage

Transmitting 'Peace' through HWPL Peace Camps

As part of HWPL's peace education initiative, Peace Camps aim to nurture students into peace-loving citizens who understand the value of peace and grow into leaders capable of resolving global peace and security issues. In December 2019, a Peace Camp was held at an elementary school in Ivory Coast. This event carried special significance as Ivory Coast was experiencing turmoil between French forces and Islamist extremists while the peace camp was held, making the message of 'peace, security, respect, and cooperation' conveyed by HWPL Peace Camps particularly poignant.

Image from HWPL Homepage

Structured around themes such as 'Peace within Me,' 'Peace We Create Together,' and 'Peace We Build Together,' the curriculum empowered students to become ambassadors of peace, spreading a culture of peace from individuals to organizations and society at large. Various activities during the camp provided students with opportunities to understand the causes of conflict and effective conflict resolution methods. Moreover, the inclusion of a 'practical education program' enabled students to apply what they learned directly in real-life situations, resulting in high engagement levels.

Image from HWPL Homepage

Recognizing the importance and necessity of peace education, the UNESCO National Commission of Ivory Coast organized meetings for UNESCO officials and educators to understand the significance of peace education. Subsequently, through the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with HWPL, a framework for continuous collaboration in peace education was established. Presently, 15 schools and organizations in Ivory Coast have entered into MOUs with HWPL, actively integrating peace education into their systems.

Image from HWPL Homepage

The Emergence of 'Peace Teachers' in Papua New Guinea

In Papua New Guinea, two organizations have signed MOUs with HWPL, leading to the training of three peace teachers through peace education programs. Although peace education is currently conducted online with limited participation, the response has been significant.

Nickson Whalelo, representative of the Neutral Association and the World Kickboxing Federation West Highlands, praised the values of peace education. Highlighting the ethnic diversity and religious tensions in Papua New Guinea, Whalelo emphasized the widespread desire for peace among all citizens. Recognizing the urgency of fostering peace in Papua New Guinea, he pledged to promote HWPL peace education within his organization and community.

In addition to Whalelo, other participants of peace teacher training expressed their intentions to introduce HWPL peace education to their communities, aspiring to become educators who impart peace. Through HWPL's peace education, individuals in Ivory Coast and Papua New Guinea harbor hope that the seeds of peace can be sown in their respective countries, envisioning a future generation where genuine peace prevails.