AFR.E.S.H promotes global peace education through creative learning experiences

Throughout 2023, a series of online exchanges connected educators from Africa and Europe to share and learn about peace education and intercultural practices. More than 130 people participated from countries like Burundi, Portugal, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Italy, Ivory Coast and guests from other African countries. These sessions aimed to foster collaboration and highlight the importance of peace education across different cultural contexts.

The meetings covered three main themes: Dice of Peace; Art and Sport as Privileged Instruments for Building Peace; and Building a Bridge Between Generations and Cultures. The sessions led by Living Peace International, a project focused on peace education from the NGO AMU – Azione per un Mondo Unito, featured effective and creative learning experiences and pedagogical practices.

The first meeting on April 15, 2023, introduced participants to the Dice of Peace and included discussions on personal experiences with the initiative. The following sessions on April 22 and May 13 explored using art and sport for peacebuilding and bridging generational and cultural gaps. The second session involved interactive activities, videos, and discussions on how art and sport promote peace. The final meeting focused on building connections across generations and cultures, featuring breakout room discussions and shared experiences from various countries. Each session concluded with positive feedback, leaving participants with a renewed sense of purpose and connection. 

The diverse participation from various countries in Africa and Europe raised awareness about the importance of peace education and highlighted the global reach and inclusivity of the initiative. This exchange also demonstrated the potential for continental collaboration, inspiring similar efforts and encouraging other organizations to adopt a more global and inclusive approach. AFR.E.S.H Online Exchanges, co-funded by the European Union, successfully bridged geographical and cultural divides, fostering a vibrant exchange of ideas and experiences among educators dedicated to promoting peace through education.