The Possibility of Peace Through Education Draws Global Attention – 
HWPL International Conference and Global Peace Initiatives

Words like conflict, division, and hatred are becoming all too familiar in today’s news. But did you know that there is a global movement striving to achieve peace through education in this turbulent era?

On June 12, Heavenly Culture, World Peace, Restoration of Light (HWPL) hosted an international conference to earnestly explore this possibility. Held online under the theme “Schools as Zones of Peace: Preventing Violence and Fostering Global Citizenship,” the event was organized in collaboration with various UNESCO national delegations and educational and civil society organizations.

▎ Schools, the Starting Point of Peace – Not Conflict

HWPL Secretary-General Dalmeida stated: “A school is the first space where an individual learns to coexist.”

The recognition that schools are not merely institutions for delivering knowledge, but rather the starting point for learning peace and coexistence, is gaining momentum. True education is not just about textbooks—it’s about learning how to understand and respect others.

‘The Congo Tree,’ a youth organization from Congo, introduced a peace-building program based on mentoring and dialogue. Meanwhile, an educational coordinator from Cyprus highlighted their national policy on violence prevention and anti-racism education. Regardless of nationality or circumstance, peace education is becoming a common answer for all.

▎ Healing the Wounds of the Heart Through Education

Bullying in schools was also addressed as a key issue. A French educator introduced the ‘Tatou Kompry’ approach, which focuses on emotional expression and empathy, emphasizing the importance of emotional-centered education in restoring students’ mental health and dignity.

In addition, projects that foster solidarity among students through art and culture reminded us once again that education is not just what happens while sitting at a desk.

▎Youth Make the Peace Flow – Zambia Youth Peace Conference

Beyond education, peace-building through youth engagement also received attention. On May 25, a youth peace conference was held in Zambia, co-hosted by HWPL and the International Peace Youth Group (IPYG).

Around 200 youth leaders and members of civil society gathered to share stories under the theme “Youth Make the Peace Flow.” They shared personal experiences of choosing peace rooted in their own cultural backgrounds and took part in building actionable plans for community-based peace activities.

One youth leader shared this insight: “Volunteering is not just service—it is an investment in yourself and a path to leadership.”

▎Kazakhstan Opens a New Chapter in Peace Education

On May 31 in Aktobe, Kazakhstan, another meaningful event took place. The education support center ‘Underground’ signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with HWPL for joint implementation of peace education programs.

The enthusiastic response from Kazakhstani educational institutions demonstrated that peace education is not just theoretical but a practical model that is transforming students and local communities.

▎ Peace Grows Through Education, Not Just Declarations

To conclude the conference, HWPL emphasized the following: “Peace is not achieved through declarations alone. It must be nurtured and established through education.”

Building a truly inclusive society requires political will, professional educators, safe learning environments, and rights-based curriculums. At the core of all of these lies education that nurtures people as dignified individuals—education for peace.

▎ Peace Is Possible Through Global Solidarity

Currently, HWPL’s peace education programs are being conducted in 93 countries around the world. Youth-led peace initiatives are also thriving. There is a clear global movement that transcends nationality, culture, religion, and language, united by the common language of “peace.”

What we can do is support this movement and practice small acts of peace in our daily lives.

May seeds of peace grow in your schools and communities as well.

Reference : https://vo.la/CIjirgh