Manama, The Peaceful Coexistence Diploma, launched by the King Hamad Global Centre for Peaceful Coexistence (KHGC) in collaboration with the United Nations University for Peace (UPEACE) and Gioya Higher Education Institution (HEI) in Malta, has garnered international acclaim, particularly from United Nations officials. They emphasised the importance of such initiatives in promoting global peace and commended Bahrain’s efforts in advancing religious freedom and human fraternity.
The opening session of the diploma, held remotely and attended by 50 students from over 20 countries, featured Dr. Shaikh Abdulla bin Ahmed Al Khalifa, Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the King Hamad Global Centre. He underscored the significance of this unique academic programme, which is one of the key initiatives of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, who believes in the power of education to foster peace and unity among nations.
Dr. Shaikh Abdulla expressed his pride in launching this first-of-its-kind programme in th
e region, highlighting that it includes courses led by international experts and is designed to promote harmony, cultural diversity, and human fraternity. He emphasised Bahrain’s model of peaceful coexistence, encouraging students to engage actively and build meaningful connections with their peers and mentors.
“This programme will open doors to new opportunities and help you achieve your aspirations. Remember, your success is our success,” he said.
Former UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon addressed the session, stressing that the world is at a critical juncture where peace must be prioritised.
“People everywhere have the right to live with dignity, free from conflict and violence,” he stated, calling for a collective effort to advance the 16th UN Sustainable Development Goal (Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions) to strengthen peacebuilding efforts.
Professor Francisco Rojas Aravena, Rector of UPEACE, highlighted the diploma’s role in fostering sustainable peace through multilateralism, shared responsi
bility, gender equity, and inclusion. He emphasised the role of education in building a culture of peace and promoting dialogue.
Professor Evarist Bartolo, former Minister of Foreign Affairs of Malta and a member of the Gioya HEI Academic Senate, stressed the importance of learning to live and work together to create peace and prosperity. He noted that millions still live in fear and poverty, and only through dignity and peaceful coexistence can lasting peace be achieved.
Amy Pope, Director General of the International Organization for Migration (IOM), emphasised the diploma’s significance in promoting peaceful coexistence and stability by building bridges between cultures. She noted that many of the world’s challenges are worsened by violent conflict, which stems from a failure to recognise shared humanity.
Tatiana Valovaya, Director-General of the United Nations Office at Geneva, expressed confidence that the Joint Postgraduate Diploma on Peaceful Coexistence would foster innovative ideas for renewed mul
tilateralism. She added that in an era of global mistrust and division, promoting human dignity and solidarity is more important than ever, and the diploma would help rebuild trust and heal divisions in the pursuit of peace.
Source: Bahrain News Agency