With UNESCO Support, Vieux Fort Comprehensive Secondary School Leads the Way in Peacebuilding

In a powerful step toward fostering peace and unity, Vieux Fort Comprehensive Secondary School (VFCSS) launched its VFCSS: Building A Peaceful Community project in September 2024. This inspiring initiative, supported by UNESCO, follows up on the UNESCO-led Youth for Peace program held last December, where VFCSS was proudly a key participant. The project aims to cultivate a culture of peace, enhance conflict resolution skills, and promote emotional well-being-setting the stage for transformative change for students, teachers, parents, and the entire Vieux Fort community.

Led by Mrs. Gillian Khodra, the school counselor, and supported by a passionate team of educators, the initiative seeks to create an atmosphere of peace, empathy, and understanding at VFCSS by integrating peace education into daily school life and equipping students with the tools and skills they need to manage conflict constructively and peacefully.

A key highlight of the project was a vibrant Peace Assembly and Walk, on Friday, November 8, 2024, which brought the entire school community together in support of this vital cause.

The Peace Walk through the streets of La Ressource, Vieux Fort, a community impacted by the challenges of crime and violence, was a moving display of collective commitment to peace. Students, staff, and community members joined forces in this powerful demonstration, walking side-by-side as a symbol of unity and shared purpose. Ms. Kina Nicholas, UNESCO Associate Programme Specialist for Youth Engagement, was on hand to share brief remarks at the event. She emphasized the importance of youth-driven peacebuilding initiatives, along with UNESCO's commitment to promoting a culture of peace reinforcing the primary aim of Global Citizenship Education (GCED).

When we promote peacebuilding in schools, we are not only contributing to reducing violence-we are also nurturing a generation of young people who are better equipped to solve problems, work together, and contribute positively to society. By investing in peace education, we lay the foundation for a future where youth feel valued and heard. And this, in turn, will help create a more peaceful, united Saint Lucia

The assembly component featured a stirring speech from Dr. Stephen King, co-founder of RISE (St. Lucia) Inc., who spoke passionately about the role of young people in shaping a peaceful future. Dr. King highlighted the importance of instilling core values of empathy, respect, and non-violence, especially in an age marked by instability and division. He reminded the students that the tools of peace education and conflict management are essential for navigating today's complex world.

Adding a personal touch, Mr. Don Lucien, shared his powerful journey of positive transformation as a young person. From struggles with crime to a renewed path of peace, Mr. Lucien's testimony resonated deeply with the students. His message underscored the transformative power of second chances and the importance of community support in helping young people overcome adversity and build better futures.

Through its multifaceted approach, the VFCSS Peace Project aims to inspire its 1,009 students to take ownership of peacebuilding in their school, homes, and communities. By nurturing the next generation of leaders and peacebuilders, the project holds the potential to create lasting change that extends far beyond the school gates.

With the VFCSS Peace Project now in full swing, the school is at the forefront of a broader movement that underscores the power of education, community collaboration, and peaceful coexistence in addressing some of the most pressing challenges facing youth today.