September 3, 2024 – At the heart of WPDI’s peacebuilding mission is the unwavering belief that peace and human rights are inextricably linked. To create lasting peace, it is crucial to empower individuals with the knowledge and skills to protect and advocate for the rights of all people. This is why Human Rights training is a cornerstone of our work in the Acholi Sub-region of northern Uganda, where the need for such education is both vital and transformative. In this region where civil war raged up to the mid-2000s, peace remains a work in progress. This is because the culture of violence and human rights violations that prevailed over the past decades cannot disappear overnight. It requires a long-term commitment and educational effort to sensitize local populations on the interconnected values of peace and human rights.
From March to June 2024, WPDI conducted an intensive three-month Human Rights training program in the Acholi Sub-Region of Uganda aimed at equipping 212 young people with the tools they need to become resilient, empowered, and peaceful leaders in their communities. This training was designed not only to impart valuable life skills in human rights but also to inspire these youth to become advocates for peace and forces for good in their societies.
The program focused on key areas such as understanding the fundamental principles of human rights, recognizing and addressing violations, and developing strategies for advocacy and community engagement. By the end of the training, the participants had not only gained a deep understanding of human rights but also developed the confidence and skills needed to apply this knowledge in real-world situations, making a tangible difference in their communities.
“Being a part of this training has been so beneficial to me because it has widened my understanding on Peace Building. Often I get myself in conflicting scenarios because of failure to manage my emotions. However the knowledge on Emotional Intelligence has shaped me,” explained Akello Joan Jenneth, trainee at our Community Learning Center in Gulu City.
WPDI’s commitment to human rights education is rooted in the belief that when individuals are empowered to stand up for their rights and the rights of others, they become catalysts for positive change. The 212 trainees from this program are now equipped to contribute to a more just and peaceful society, embodying the values and principles that WPDI strives to instill in all its initiatives.
As these young leaders return to their communities, they carry with them the knowledge and passion needed to promote peace and human dignity. Their journey has just begun, and with continued support and guidance, they will undoubtedly become powerful advocates for a brighter, more peaceful future in Uganda.
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