With so many conflicts, catastrophes, and injustices in the globe, young people are particularly affected. For the purpose of addressing their vulnerabilities, which include, among other things, threats from drugs and crime, risky behaviors, violence, and mental health, it is imperative that teaching on SDG-16—peace, justice, and strong institutions—be mainstreamed. Young people should also be given the tools and authority necessary to recognize their rights, make moral decisions, confront injustice, and advance more equitable communities.
In India, UNODC, the Kamla Nehru Public School Phagwara, and educational partners have launched a new educational program called RiseUp4Peace.
With the goal of fostering cross-learning, involving youth, strengthening educator capabilities, and co-creating educational interventions, RiseUp4Peace seeks to establish a thriving community of practice to enhance education on peace, integrity, and the rule of law—essential components of SDG-16.
More than 200 educators, legislators, and young people from India and beyond praised the project during the virtual debut.
Marco Teixeira, the UNODC’s representative for South Asia, stressed how RiseUp4Peace is in line with India’s National Education Policy.
“It is imperative to equip young learners with integrity, ethics, and legality,” he stated. “UNODC supports these initiatives, involving young people, preparing teachers, and exchanging worldwide knowledge.”
The feedback received thus far emphasizes how crucial it is to provide impact narratives and perspectives when instructing and learning SDG-16. RiseUp4Peace is a coalition of partners that has more than 660 educator leaders and 11,500 students from 182 educational institutions in 35 countries.