AfriYAN Ethiopia, in collaboration with Hawassa University and the Hawassa University Student Union, successfully organized a Peace Dialogue and Youth Awareness Program under the theme “Building a Peace Sensitive Youth Community through Dialogue and Understanding.” The event brought together students from diverse academic backgrounds and student clubs to discuss the role of young people in promoting peace and social harmony.
Key highlights
• Organizers: AfriYAN Ethiopia, Hawassa University, and Hawassa University Student Union
• Location: Hawassa University
• Theme: Building a Peace Sensitive Youth Community through Dialogue and Understanding
• Participants: Students from various departments and student organizations
• Focus: Peacebuilding, dialogue, misinformation, conflict prevention, and peaceful coexistence
Creating a platform for dialogue
The program provided a valuable space for students to engage in meaningful conversations on issues affecting communities and young people. Participants explored how dialogue, understanding, and mutual respect can contribute to preventing conflicts and strengthening social cohesion.
Discussions also addressed the impact of misinformation and the importance of critical thinking, responsible communication, and constructive engagement in fostering peaceful communities.
Youth as agents of peace
The opening session featured welcoming remarks from representatives of the Hawassa University Student Union and AfriYAN Ethiopia. Speakers emphasized the vital role of youth in promoting peace, encouraging understanding, and building bridges across diverse communities.
Participants reflected on the responsibilities of young people as future leaders and explored practical ways to contribute to peacebuilding efforts both on campus and beyond.
Strengthening peaceful coexistence
Through dialogue and experience sharing, the program encouraged participants to embrace diversity, resolve differences peacefully, and become active advocates for social harmony. The discussions reinforced the idea that sustainable peace begins with informed, engaged, and responsible young people.
Looking ahead
AfriYAN Ethiopia remains committed to creating platforms that empower youth to lead conversations on peacebuilding, conflict prevention, and community engagement. By strengthening dialogue and understanding, young people can play a transformative role in building a more peaceful and inclusive society.
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