Maseru, March. 16 __ A total of 100 teachers graduated at the Development for Peace Education (DPE) Certificate Award Ceremony held at Durham Link in Maseru on Friday. This comes upon completion of 14 modules of the Peace Education Programme.

The event, organised in collaboration with Heavenly Culture, World Peace and Restoration of Light (HWPL), recognised the teachers’ commitment to promoting peace education in schools across the country.

Speaking at the event, DPE Coordinator Mr. Valentine Mosoeu said the day was memorable, especially for teachers who had taken a bold step to increase their knowledge on Peace Education and dedicate themselves to promoting it in schools.

He said the teachers were gathered to receive certificates as a symbol of their commitment to planting the tree of peace in schools.

“Thanks to their dedication, this goal has led to significant changes in attitudes, which are reflected in the peace and stability within the schools where they work. Since their involvement in this programme, there has been a noticeable improvement in peace in their schools. Violent protests and student bullying are not common in an environment where peace education has been introduced,” he said.

Mr. Mosoeu indicated that the ceremony marked the completion of a 14-month training journey undertaken by the teachers through the DPE programme in partnership with HWPL.

He said the event was also planned to coincide with the period when the nation celebrates Moshoeshoe’s Day, noting that King Moshoeshoe I is recognised worldwide as a peacemaker and philosopher who valued peace.
He said Moshoeshoe’s Day is an important moment for Basotho to reflect on their identity as a nation that values peace and unity.

Mr. Mosoeu added that the ceremony was held at a time when global peace continues to face serious threats, stressing the need for countries involved in wars to lay down their weapons and resolve their differences through dialogue.
He further noted that the programme includes modules on dialogue and public participation, emphasising that peace requires justice, transparency and accountability.

Mr. Mosoeu said the Peace Education course consists of 14 modules which include topics such as the original state of heaven, earth and all things, the harmony that once existed, the causes of the breakdown of peace in the human world, restoration of relationships and order, as well as developing a heart of gratitude for the grace received.
He also encouraged the Ministry of Education and Training to institutionalise Peace Education in all schools so that all citizens may benefit from its teachings.

On behalf of the teachers, Ms Mpontšeng Letšela from Molefi Community High School expressed appreciation for the training, saying it has empowered teachers to manage diverse learners and promote respect and peaceful coexistence in schools.

Meanwhile, teachers signed the “Peace My Lesotho” pledge during the Peace Teacher Appointment Ceremony, committing themselves to practise and promote Peace Education in their classrooms.

Through their partnership with HWPL, the teachers pledged to instil the values of peace among learners, transform their schools into safe and respectful environments and contribute to building a culture of peace across Lesotho.
The ceremony highlighted the important role of Peace Education in shaping a harmonious society and encouraged teachers to continue nurturing values of respect, understanding and non-violence among learners.