Countering Violent Extremism and De-Radicalization on the Plateau through Peace Education

In contributing to the overall peacebuilding process on the Plateau, Dialogue, Reconciliation and Peace (DREP) Centre has commenced a Peace Education Project targeted at Students and out of school youths for communities in Jos North, Jos South and Barkin Ladi local Government of Plateau State. DREP Centre is aware of the contributions of peace education to the overall growth of children and youths by helping them develop characteristics essential for the attainment of peace.  The project is aimed at countering violent extremism among school and out of school youths by helping them create a sense of dignity and self-worth, a confidence to question their values, communication skills, and ethical awareness and an empathy for others.  

It is hoped that at the end of the project, selected youths from different ethnic and religious groups will

·      Intensify cross-cultural dialogue in their schools and communities

·      Enhance trust and reconciliation in their schools and communitiesBe equipped with dialogue, reconciliation and peacebuilding skills and engage themselves accordingly in their schools and communities.

By finding mutual interactive opportunities through education and training, these youths coexist peacefully with others and work for sustainable peace and development of their societies. Expected results will include:

·      Reducing gaps created by mental and settlement polarization along ethnic and religious lines

·      Reducing prejudice and ignorance of culture and religion among youths

·      Breaking the cycle of violence occasioned by revenge mentality among youths

·      Transforming youths into peace agents in their school and communities.

Sessions will be alternated between youths from schools and their counterparts in the community with the view of eventually bringing them together to share learning and good practices.