School-Based Peace Building in Sierra Leone

Abstract

This article describes the development of a peace education project, including the Peace Education Kit, in schools in Sierra Leone. The program, initiated by the World Bank, has involved working partnerships between local and international agencies and provides a case study of how schools can work with the community to contribute to a national peace-building effort. The project is based in peace theory and the materials developed are integrated into the school curriculum. The approach taken is one of capacity building-working with teachers, workers from nongovernment organizations (NGOs), and mentors. Some of the issues that affect peace education in a postconflict situation, including trauma and religion, are discussed.