A Platform for Peace Education with Students and Parents: Madagascar HWPL Peace Library

 

 

The Madagascar Branch of HWPL (Heavenly Culture, World Peace, Restoration of Light) and its partner organization, the Omena Association, hosted parent seminars six times during the first week of December 2024.

The seminars aimed to share the achievements of educational activities conducted at six public elementary schools designated as HWPL Peace Libraries. HWPL and Omena showcased various library programs, including peace-themed reading sessions, hands-on activities, and discussions. They also provided parents with detailed explanations of what their children had learned through these initiatives.

 

 

Some public elementary schools in Madagascar are underfunded and have poor educational environments due to underdeveloped local conditions, making it difficult for students to access study spaces such as libraries. As a solution, HWPL established Peace Libraries, donating books to create learning spaces for students. Additionally, the organization works with various partners to conduct weekly educational programs teaching French, English, mathematics, and other subjects, aiming to enhance students’ academic abilities.

 

 

Through these library education programs, students’ attitudes and values ​​have changed positively. Parents expressed their satisfaction, sharing feedback and emphasizing how the initiatives have contributed to fostering a sense of social responsibility and cultivating a mindset of peace among the children.

HWPL and Omena announced plans to expand their partnerships with other organizations to provide students with diverse and high-quality educational opportunities, including peace education. They also discussed ways to involve parents more effectively in monitoring and supporting educational activities, encouraging their active participation in their children’s education.

 

 

The HWPL Peace Library has now become more than just a reading space, but a core educational space where students can learn and practice the importance of peace and harmony. This recent series of seminars reaffirmed the significance of peace education and provided an opportunity for HWPL and Omena to strengthen their cooperative relationship with parents.

“For education that fosters the growth of students, collaboration with parents and the community is essential. We will continue to develop educational programs centered around Peace Libraries to benefit students and the broader community,” said a representative of HWPL.