DIMAPUR, SEPTEMBER 7 (MExN): The Peace Channel, in collaboration with the North East Institute of Social Sciences and Research (NEISSR) conducted a peer mediation training program on September 5. This initiative signifies a bold step toward empowering youth in colleges and universities as peer mediators, uniquely equipped to address a diverse spectrum of issues within their academic communities, said a press release from the organisers.
Addressing the trainees, Dr Fr CP Anto said that it is an urgent need to empower youth as peer mediators and peace builders for bettering society. Through peer mediation, the youth are able to find solutions to all issues faced in colleges and universities, like relationship issues, social media related issues, groupism, drug and substance, class room related issues and even career issues, he stated.
He added that peer mediation stands at the forefront of the Peace Channel's mission, concentrating on the youth in colleges, universities, and localities across the region. This approach, now integrated into NEISSR's best practices, entails empowering each and every student with an arsenal of essential peace-building and conflict transformation skills. These encompass effective communication, empathy, mediation techniques, problem analysis, and active listening.
Livino, the trainer, capacitated the youth with the concept of peer mediation and guided by a structured process comprising seven pivotal steps—Introduction, Discussion, Clarification, Rectification, Resolution, Transformation, and Evaluation, using SWOC analysis to understand the strength and weaknesses of the group and transform the weaknesses as strength.
NEISSR's Peer Mediation Forum is uniquely positioned to address a wide range of issues that can impact the college community, it was added. Beyond resolving conflicts, the Peer Mediation Forum at NEISSR champions a holistic approach to fostering peace and understanding. Activities such as mental health awareness campaigns, cultural sensitivity workshops, and community-building events exemplify the commitment to unity and cooperation among students.
The recent training program culminated with practical demonstrations from each student group showcasing their newfound mediation skills and dedication to creating a more inclusive and harmonious academic environment. Teresa and Hravine were also a part of the training team.
