Role of peace education stressed

Updated on: Tuesday, December 07, 2010

The importance of imparting peace education to combat the increasing incidents of conflict, violence and unrest all over the world was underscored by speakers at the inauguration of a workshop in Madras Christian College on Friday.

The two-day national workshop for curriculum development on peace education was organised by the Institute for Advanced Christian Studies of MCC and sponsored by Hong Kong-based United Board for Christian Higher Education in Asia. Delivering the inaugural address, Prince of Arcot Nawab Mohammed Abdul Ali said living in peace with neighbours had become a thing of the past due to turbulence caused by globalisation, terrorism, religious disharmony and caste system in the country.

Stating that there was a need for paving the way for a better understanding among people, especially among the minority communities, he made it clear that respecting the constitutional rights of minorities was not appeasement. The Nawab said India was a diverse and pluralistic society and communalism brought about death, destruction and horror.

The participants in the workshop would interact with experts and identify key areas of peace education relevant to college students. The proposed curriculum would be of prime importance to the progress and development of the nation, he said.Speaking on the occasion, Avron Boretz, Director of Projects, United Board for Christian Higher Education in Asia, outlined the activities of his organisation.

Delivering the presidential address, Alexander Jesudasan, the college principal, said incidents of unrest, conflict and confrontation were on the rise and it was relevant and appropriate that there should be a dialogue on peace education. V.S.George Joseph, Dean, Sathia Nilayam and Head, Department of Philosophy, Loyola College, who delivered the keynote address, said peace education extended beyond academic training and that it also included giving greater role for non-governmental organisations in governance.

Joseph Barnabas, Associate Professor, Department of History, proposed a vote of thanks.

Role of peace education stressed

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