Education plays a pivotal role in shaping peaceful, inclusive, and resilient societies. Recognizing its strategic importance in peacebuilding and national development, Global Peace Chain (GPC) Zambia commemorated the International Day of Education on 24 January by convening a high-level Peace Education Policy Dialogue and the official launch of a Civil Society Peace Education Recommendation Paper at the Maya Angelou American Corner in Lusaka.
This engagement reflected Global Peace Chain Zambia’s continued commitment to promoting education as a foundation for peace, good governance, and sustainable development. The observance served not only as a commemoration but as a platform for concrete policy-oriented action aimed at strengthening peace education within Zambia’s education system.
The Peace Education Policy Dialogue brought together Global Peace Chain Ambassadors, civil society organizations, youth leaders, education practitioners, and key stakeholders committed to advancing transformative education. The session created a collaborative space for dialogue on how peace education can be effectively integrated into national education frameworks.
Participants examined ways to translate global commitments on education, peacebuilding, and sustainable development—particularly those reflected in international and continental frameworks—into practical, nationally responsive policies. Discussions emphasized the importance of contextualized approaches that address Zambia’s social realities while remaining aligned with broader regional and global development agendas.
A central milestone of the event was the formal launch of the Peace Education Recommendation Paper, developed through inclusive and consultative processes involving civil society actors and youth representatives. The paper is prepared for submission to the Ministry of Education as a constructive contribution to national education reform and policy dialogue.
The recommendations outline actionable strategies to institutionalize peace education across learning systems, promote civic responsibility and democratic values, strengthen conflict prevention and peace literacy, and align youth skills development with continental and global education and development frameworks. By presenting clear, implementable proposals, the paper aims to support policymakers in advancing inclusive, relevant, and future-oriented education.
The dialogue featured moderated discussions, expert insights, and the presentation of key policy recommendations. Contributors highlighted education’s role beyond academic achievement, emphasizing its capacity to foster social cohesion, active citizenship, and participatory governance.
Participants reaffirmed that peace education is not an auxiliary component of learning but a strategic instrument for national stability and sustainable development. The exchange of perspectives strengthened shared understanding among stakeholders and reinforced the value of civil society engagement in shaping education policy.
The outcomes of the Peace Education Policy Dialogue and Recommendation Paper Launch will be formally documented and shared as Global Peace Chain Zambia’s national contribution to the global observance of the International Day of Education. This documentation will support continued advocacy efforts and serve as a reference point for future engagement with government institutions and development partners.
Global Peace Chain Zambia remains steadfast in its commitment to advancing education as a cornerstone of peacebuilding, governance, and sustainable national development. Through continued policy engagement, youth participation, and civil society collaboration, the chapter aims to strengthen education systems that empower learners with the knowledge, values, and skills required to contribute positively to society.
By aligning advocacy with action, Global Peace Chain Zambia continues to demonstrate that education is not only a right but a strategic pathway toward peace, democratic participation, and long-term national progress.
