As part of efforts aimed at preventing conflicts and promoting sustainable peace, members of Rotary International District 9111, yesterday, donated the Peace Institute Building to the management of Olabisi Onabanjo University (OOU), Ago-Iwoye, Ogun State.

In his speech, District Governor of Rotary International District 9111, Rotarian Henry Akinyele, said the Peace Institute is the District and Rotarians’ statement that peace must be taught, researched and practised, beginning from campuses and extending into communities.

To him, rather than waiting for conflict to happen, Rotarians chose to prevent it through education, dialogue and research.

Akinyele recalled: “This Rotary year, we organised a Peace Summit where participants agreed with the United Nations that quality education should include peace education.”

This institute will train peace builders from different sectors of society in mediation, conflict analysis and non-violent communication.

Saying peace is everyone’s responsibility, Akinyele also added that the project demonstrates the power of partnership among Rotary, Olabisi Onabanjo University, the government, and the wider community.

He noted that the United Nations also affirmed that conflict is one of the greatest causes of poverty and inequality. When communities are in conflict, schools close, farms are abandoned, businesses suffer, and young people lose opportunities.

By investing in peace, we are protecting education, livelihoods and the future of our communities.