The Urgent Need for Peace Education – Dr Obijiofor Aginam, Director UNESCO MGIEP

2 October 2024, 9:30 am

By Annet Nakato.

As conflicts continue to ravage various parts of the world, the International Day of Non-Violence, observed annually on October 2, serves as a poignant reminder of the enduring relevance of non-violence in today’s turbulent times.

The United Nations established this day in 2007 to honor the legacy of Mahatma Gandhi, a leader of the Indian independence movement and a pioneer of the philosophy of non-violence. This commemoration urges individuals, organizations, and governments to promote the principles of peace, tolerance, and respect for human rights.

In today’s world, where conflicts in places such as Ukraine, Myanmar, Gaza, Sudan, and Yemen claim millions of lives, destabilizing entire societies and creating humanitarian crises, the philosophy of non-violence is more pertinent than ever.

Wars and violence often lead to the destruction of critical social infrastructure, including schools and hospitals, and undermine communities’ ability to coexist peacefully. The consequences of these conflicts extend far beyond physical damage, severely disrupting education, healthcare, and the overall well-being of societies.

Education, as emphasized by UNESCO’s 2023 landmark recommendation on Education for Peace, Human Rights, and Sustainable Development, is vital in shaping conscience and consciousness, offering a path to sustainable peace.

The report reaffirms the critical role of education in empowering individuals with the knowledge, values, and skills needed to become agents of peace in their communities.

As the world faces 21st-century threats, the need to instill these values through education becomes alarmingly.

Secretary-General António Guterres, in a statement, highlighted the relevance of Gandhi’s words: “Our ability to reach unity in diversity will be the beauty and the test of our civilization.” His call echoes the need for global solidarity and individual responsibility in constructing the pillars of peace within the minds of men and women.

In commemorating the International Day of Non-Violence, the global community is reminded that peace is not merely the absence of war but a continuous effort to build tolerance, understanding, and mutual respect. Now more than ever, the world must embrace the philosophy of non-violence and prioritize peace education to ensure a sustainable and peaceful future for all.