During the 1994 genocide against the Tutsi, young people were “arguably the biggest force in carrying out the genocide”, as it has been shown in various reports, studies and articles – the reason why it’s paramount for them to learn about sustaining peace and contributing to progress in their nation. Two young people Ian Manzi and Derrick Murekezi, former NAR youth club members started a project where youth convene for a week-long camp to learn and discuss critical reading and writing, model UN, leadership, social impact, and business innovation, all geared towards peacebuilding and peace education.
Joining the youth during the camp, Dr. Joseph Nkurunziza Ryarasa, Executive Director of Never Again Rwanda, urged the young people at the youth camp to exercise tolerance, as a key pillar for advancing peace values. Dr. Joseph also noted that most young people today use social media to voice their opinions and views, but they also hide behind their online platforms to negatively criticize others, thus called on them to criticize but first analyze a statement before insulting any online user – using social media for social good. Open and honest dialogue lays a strong foundation for conflict management and eventually sustainable peace, so, as you use open spaces, remember to be honest, he added
The 83 high school student leaders were eager to learn and thirsty for more skills and capacity to do more for them and future generations. Thus the need for more organizations to commit to empower and engage youth to be the best and effective leaders of our country’s future – together we can do more.