Conflict management and Peace Education
Introduction-
The state of ASSAM, located in the north-eastern part of Indian is the poorest among all the north-eastern states. The project region, particularly Bodoland Territorial Council (BTC), is marked by its multi-ethnic composition. There is an atmosphere of mistrust and split among the grouping. Every now and then there erupt bloody conflicts which result in persecution. Instability and recurring persecution lead to stubborn poverty and bad infrastructure in the region. The situation in education is bad; many children disrupt their schooling voluntarily. Child labour, child marriage, exploitation and migration of adolescents to cities are only some of its consequences.
Objectives-
Understanding and Resolving Conflicts-
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The project aims to help children and youth in 10 villages understand the cycle of violence and demonstrate positive conflict resolution attitudes by the project's end.
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To achieve this, 10 comprehensive village action plans were developed and 10 children/youth centers were established.
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Children’s councils and youth peace volunteer groups were formed in each village, with volunteers receiving regular training.
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Monthly peace sessions and activities were conducted to improve conflict resolution skills and enhance social cohesion and harmony.
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Integrated village planning involved engaging community members and integrating with local governance to develop and update action plans regularly.
Safe and Inclusive Educational Environments-
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The project aims to transform schools and educational institutions into safe, peaceful, inclusive spaces that provide quality education.
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Enrollment and retention campaigns were conducted to bring out-of-school children back into the education system.
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Training sessions were held for school administrations and School Management Committees (SMCs) to equip them with the skills needed to maintain peace and inclusivity.
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Regular peace sessions were conducted in schools to instill values of harmony, equality, and democracy in students.
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Quarterly meetings with parents encouraged their active participation in the educational process, leading to increased school enrollment and retention.
Strengthened Community Networks for Peace Building
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The project aims to strengthen community networks and stakeholder involvement in peacebuilding.
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Community-based peace-building committees were formed in 10 villages, holding monthly meetings to discuss peace and strategies to prevent conflicts.
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Training sessions for committee members enhanced their skills and knowledge in peacebuilding.
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Important days were celebrated, and activities were organized to restore and appreciate collective heritage, strengthening social bonds and mutual respect among community members.
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These efforts empowered communities to take a proactive role in maintaining peace and resolving conflicts.
Additional Activities
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Sports clubs were established in 10 villages to promote mental health and social integration through sports.
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Literary, film, and theatre clubs were formed to promote peace and harmony through the arts, including weekly film screenings, book readings, and the annual publication of stories by children and youth.
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Youth were engaged as reporters to advocate for their communities and participate in local planning and meetings with legislators and public authorities.
Peace is not just the absence of conflict; peace is the creation of an environment where all can flourish, regardless of race, colour, creed, religion, gender, class, caste, or any other social markers of difference.
---Nelson Mandela