ICF Peace Institutes – Training of Trainers
Last Updated (Monday, 30 January 2023 16:02)
From October 26 to November 21, 2022, the Interfaith Cooperation Forum (ICF) successfully held a series of training trainers on conflict transformation, peacebuilding, and peace education at the YMCA International Hotel in Chiang Mai, Thailand. The training welcomed fifteen (15) participants nominated by members/partner organizations from different countries, namely, Myanmar (2), India (2), Vietnam (1), Laos (1), Bangladesh (1), Sri Lanka (1), Philippines (2), Indonesia (1), Timor Leste (1), Cambodia (1), Nepal (1) and Mongolia (1).
The 26-day training had 2 modules. The first was on conflict transformation and peacebuilding, and the second module was on peace education. Two experienced Nepalese trainers, Dr. Susan Risal and Hari B. Dhami led the sessions of the first module. In this training, the participants studied the definition of conflict, conflict analysis tools, and conflict transformation methods. The course content developed in a non-linear, practical, and learner-centered way blew their mind and brought them many unforgettable experiences. Most of the participants shared that the role-playing activity is one of the most interesting and memorable moments during sessions on the first module. In these sessions, they have experienced numerous characters in case studies that they can easily observe from their daily life and apply knowledge to handle these situations with effective solutions. After that, they could fully assimilate new information and open in-depth discussions relating to conflict and peace topics in their countries. Also, they had a valuable chance to facilitate a two-day workshop on conflict transformation for high school students from Chiang Mai International School. This was the first time for most of the participants had drawn ideas and prepared learning materials. These were done so that students who are not used to discussing the topic of conflict could explain and implement conflict transformation methods in actual situations.
The second module of peace education was conducted by Ma’am Jo Villanueva from the Philippines. The module has given the participants an in-depth understanding of peace education and of peaceable teaching-learning processes and strategies that a peace educator should learn. After the training, participants became aware of the role as well as key characteristics of a peace educator. Sreymenh, a Cambodian participant shared that with the knowledge and skills gained from the training, she felt more confident and willing to conduct a training workshop on conflict transformation and peacebuilding in their communities. Jessi, a participant from Vietnam, shared her impressions on the module: “The participants were full of energy and excitement to approach such a huge topic “Peace” with an alternative way. Ma’am Jo highly integrated diverse learning activities into each session. Not only have we learned about issues relating to peace but also essential and practical skills a peace educator must have.” The module came to an end with a one-day workshop on peacebuilding for guest participants. In contrast to their desire, the participants had to conduct the workshop without any guests due to an unexpected situation. However, they conducted the practicum successfully and gained more experience in handling facilitation issues.
In addition to indoor learning, the participants spent their days off visiting famous tourist attractions in Chiang Mai and participating in extra-curricular activities with Thai locals. During the 26-day training, the participants lived in a truly peaceful environment where people were encouraged to raise their voices, listen to each other, and respect differences and personal privacy.
By: Giang Thu Đoàn (Jessi), Vietnam