Guided meditation centers participants during the Peace Training workshop.
The Peacebuilding Leadership Training workshop, held on September 22-23, 2024, marked a significant initiative aimed at fostering social cohesion and character and leadership development of future leaders dedicated to peace. Hosted at Indira Gandhi Technological and Medical Sciences University (IGTAMSU), the workshop drew around 100 enthusiastic students from various departments, including nursing, naturopathy, and yoga science, medical laboratory technology, physiotherapy, and business studies.
The first day began with engaging introductions between facilitators and students, highlighting the workshop’s aim to transform youth into moral and innovative leaders. Participants learned that peacebuilding is a collaborative process rooted in friendship and shared responsibility.
Dr. Markandey Rai, chairman of GPF India, inspired attendees with insights on the essential role of youth in peacebuilding, emphasizing qualities like empathy and active listening. He advocated for interfaith leadership, noting that diverse religious beliefs can foster dialogue and understanding, drawing on Mahatma Gandhi’s vision of a “peace army.”
Participant shares during the peacebuilding workshop hosted by GPF India.
Ms. Anjali then introduced peace and conflict resolution, detailing various types of conflicts and their impacts, encouraging participants to recognize their potential roles in promoting civic virtue. Ms. Priya Raghav followed with a presentation on GPF India’s initiatives, discussing “digital peace” and the importance of community engagement in fostering social cohesion.
The first half concluded with a mindfulness activity led by Ms. Shaivya, enhancing self-awareness and character development. After lunch, she focused on internal peace, encouraging students to share their interpretations of peace as a universal principle.
A discussion on the interconnectedness of all life forms emphasized the necessity of peace for human existence. The session ended with a powerful call for “One Family under God,” encapsulating the shared quest for peace.
On the second day, the program began with a refreshing meditation session by Ms. Toko Aniaa, centering participants on peace. Ms. Anjali then discussed interfaith dialogue, equipping students with practical strategies for community peacebuilding and highlighting the importance of empathy and active listening.
Ms. Priya introduced the role of international institutions in peacekeeping, explaining how they mediate conflicts and empower individuals through diplomacy. She also presented the Global Peace Leadership Corps, which aims to develop youth leadership skills for global peace initiatives.
The day concluded with a session on women’s leadership, where Ms. Priya shared inspiring stories of women leaders worldwide, emphasizing that empowering women and strengthening families are crucial for fostering a peaceful society.
Students express their vision for peace in the Paint Peace project.
The Youth Peace Clubs were launched to encourage students to actively participate in peacebuilding activities. Guided by Dr. Markandey Rai, Chairman of GPF India, hundreds of students joined the club, pledging to uphold the values they learned during the training. This collaboration between IGTAMSU and GPF India demonstrates a shared commitment to fostering a culture of service and social cohesion.
The workshop also included creative activities like “Paint for Peace,” where students expressed their visions of peace through art. A communication exercise highlighted the importance of clear dialogue, demonstrating how meaningful ideas can evolve through shared interactions.
GPF India conducts a Peace Training Workshop for youth.
The program concluded with a vibrant certificate distribution ceremony, celebrating participants’ commitment to a peaceful future. Cheers and laughter filled the room, reflecting the camaraderie and hope that had blossomed over the two days.
In summary, the Peacebuilding Leadership Training workshop not only equipped participants with essential skills for conflict resolution and community engagement but also fostered a deeper understanding of the interconnectedness of humanity. By focusing on character and leadership development, fostering civic virtue, and embracing interfaith leadership, the program laid important pathways for national transformation and a more harmonious world. The shared experiences and collaborative spirit forged during this training promise to ripple out into the broader community, nurturing a future rooted in peace and understanding.
Learn more India | Global Peace Foundation
