School Day of Non-violence and Peace |31 January 2024
Fostering a future of harmony
Yesterday marked the globally recognised School Day of Non-violence and Peace, an initiative that has its roots in the peaceful teachings of Mahatma Gandhi and the visionary efforts of Spanish poet and educator, Llorenç Vidal Vidal.
This day, observed in schools across the world, serves as a poignant reminder of the power of non-violent conflict resolution and the vital role education plays in shaping a more peaceful future.
Originating in Spain, the School Day of Non-violence and Peace (DENIP), was founded by Vidal, a staunch pacifist, on January 30 to coincide with the death anniversary of Gandhi, the legendary apostle of world peace. This date was not only a symbolic nod to Gandhi's legacy but also a powerful statement about the enduring relevance of non-violent principles in today's world.
Vidal, starting this observance in his hometown of Majorca, envisioned a day dedicated to establishing an educational ecosystem that emphasises the teachings of non-violence. His initiative has since evolved into a pioneering, non-governmental, independent, and voluntary effort that has been embraced by educational institutions globally.
DENIP's philosophy is grounded in promoting universal love, non-violence, and peace over egoism, violence, and war. This day serves as a vibrant platform for schools worldwide to host events and conferences, inviting educators, teachers, and students at all levels to engage in meaningful discussions about creating a non-violent, peaceful, and just society.
These educational activities are not just about commemorating a day; they represent a commitment to integrating the principles of peaceful coexistence, tolerance, solidarity, respect for human rights, and non-violence into the fabric of everyday learning.
By doing so, DENIP aims to cultivate a generation of individuals who are not only academically accomplished but also emotionally intelligent and socially responsible.
As schools around the globe take part in this significant day, the message is clear: the path to a harmonious future is paved with the lessons of peace and non-violence.
Speaking to Seychelles NATION, principal of International School Seychelles (ISS), Elodie Vallantine, noted that the ISS is an inclusive school and they are proud of their diversity in terms of their multicultural and national aspect of the population and the pupils.
“A day like today is very much about the ability to bring the diversity and bring everybody together to make sure that we nurture the pupils to become global citizens,” said Ms Vallantine.
“We have to learn that there is not only ‘I’ but rather ‘We’ and we are the peacemakers and positive agents for the world,” she noted.
She added that it is important to provide students with the education to appreciate and promote the importance of a peaceful co-existence, to form solidarity and respect human rights and non-violence.
“One of our school values is community and another one is respect and tolerance, so that it is something we always put in action. I believe it is really important as a school that there is zero tolerance towards violence of any kind. Every hint of violence must be challenged and dealt with appropriately and the pupils are educated as to why violence is not the answer,” added the ISS principal.
As we reflect on the teachings of Gandhi and the vision of Llorenç Vidal, let us all commit to fostering an environment where non-violent solutions are not just taught, but lived by each one of us.
Compiled by: Sunny Esparon