On August 13, 2024, a specialized initiative, RiseUp4Peace, was convened in Shillong, Meghalaya, by the Directorate of Educational Research and Training (DERT) and the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC). This initiative aimed to empower educators to foster discussions around inclusion, ethics, and peace in classrooms, amidst growing challenges faced by students in a rapidly changing digital landscape.
The event brought together principals and educators from 22 schools who engaged in intensive discussions about critical issues impacting young people, including cyberbullying, substance abuse, and mental health challenges. Participants emphasized the necessity of creating safe spaces for students to share their problems and seek guidance. This proactive approach aims to help students navigate emerging vulnerabilities and resist negative influences.
Ms. RS Manners, Director of DERT Meghalaya, underscored the importance of addressing both emotional and psychological needs alongside academic growth, advocating for innovative tools and strategies for educators. The discussions included sharing replicable good practices, such as buddy programs to identify risky behaviors and initiatives focused on mental health awareness and digital footprint reduction.
Participants like Mr. Paul, an educator, expressed enthusiasm about the insights gained to improve their classroom environments, emphasizing the importance of real-life scenarios in shaping actionable strategies. The workshop also aligned with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, which aims to integrate critical themes into educational practices, highlighting a shift towards holistic development in schooling.
Dr. Satya Bhushan from NCERT spoke on aligning educational practices with national policies, noting that the NEP emphasizes the necessity for institutions to consider student well-being. Similarly, Mr. Samarth Pathak from UNODC reinforced the role of educators in cultivating a safer learning environment, advocating for continuous investment in supportive programs rather than isolated events.
Overall, the RiseUp4Peace initiative represents a transformative effort to equip educators with the necessary resources and insights to create supportive learning environments. Participating educators are encouraged to implement these strategies in their classrooms, fostering cross-learning and continued engagement among students.
This initiative also aligns with several Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), contributing to education (SDG 4), gender equality (SDG 5), peaceful societies (SDG 16), and partnerships for the goals (SDG 17).
For more information and participation, visit RiseUp4Peace.
