HWPL Peace Education: Transforming Gambia Through Practical Peacebuilding

Rebuilding Unity and Harmony Through Education in Gambia

For decades, Gambia faced challenges of division and unrest, particularly during a 22-year period of military dictatorship that left the nation deeply polarized. Today, the country is striving to rebuild unity and harmony through HWPL’s Peace Education program, which provides a unique, practical approach to fostering peace. Let’s explore how HWPL’s initiative is inspiring change in Gambia and its education sector.

 

A Practical Approach to Peace Education

In Gambia’s journey toward reconciliation, HWPL’s Peace Education stands out as a transformative force. Unlike abstract theories, this program addresses real-world issues, enabling individuals to incorporate peacebuilding into their daily lives. Bubacarr Sambou, a coordinator at Gambia College, shared his insights on the program’s impact.

“HWPL’s model is closely connected to reality,” Sambou explained. “It helps people see peace as a tangible, achievable goal, influencing both personal and community life.” After completing an 8-week Peace Educator Training (PET) course in late 2022, Sambou became a leading advocate for integrating HWPL’s curriculum into Gambia College.

 

Establishing a Foundation for Peace at Gambia College 

Under Sambou’s leadership, Gambia College has taken significant steps to institutionalize peace education. The establishment of an HWPL club allows students to participate in workshops and activities that promote peace. Additionally, instructors dedicate at least 30 minutes of their lectures to peace education, encouraging students to apply these lessons during internships and in their future careers.

Annual events, such as the May 25 commemoration of the Declaration of World Peace, provide opportunities for students and staff to engage in meaningful discussions about peace and unity. Through these initiatives, Gambia College is nurturing a generation of peacebuilders who are ready to bring positive change to their communities.

 Fostering Change Through Education

The impact of HWPL’s Peace Education at Gambia College is profound. Students have developed a deeper understanding of coexistence, environmental protection, and social responsibility. Living in college dormitories has become a platform for practicing tolerance and celebrating diversity.

“Each session with students feels rewarding,” Sambou reflected. “Knowing I’m contributing to shaping even one peaceful citizen makes this work deeply fulfilling.”

 

 Why Peace Education Matters in Gambia 

Gambia’s history underscores the critical need for peace education. The military dictatorship of 1994–2016 fragmented the nation, fostering distrust among ethnic groups and weakening national unity. Although Gambians successfully ousted the regime, rebuilding trust and cohesion remains an ongoing challenge.

HWPL’s Peace Education offers a pathway to healing and reconciliation. By addressing historical grievances and promoting values like tolerance and mutual respect, the program empowers Gambians to forge a future rooted in harmony and understanding.

 A Vision for a Peaceful Future

Looking ahead, Sambou envisions a broader implementation of peace education across Gambia. His goal is to equip students with the skills to become peace mediators, both locally and internationally.

“Peace begins in the mind,” Sambou emphasized. “Through education, we can cultivate the character and values needed for a harmonious society.”

 Join the Movement for Peace in Gambia

HWPL’s Peace Education is transforming lives in Gambia, turning past struggles into opportunities for growth and unity. By training educators and empowering students, the program is laying the foundation for a peaceful, prosperous future.

Let’s support HWPL’s mission and work together to make peace a reality in Gambia and beyond. 🌍🕊️