During the 57th session of the United Nations Human Rights Council, Hansraj Singh, a representative of Rajasthan’s Samgrah Kalyan Sansthan, delivered a compelling address that highlighted the transformative power of education in promoting global peace and tolerance.
Singh’s speech underscored the urgent need to prioritize education that goes beyond academic learning, focusing on cultivating empathy, respect, and mutual understanding, especially among children in rural and underserved communities.
The Role of Education in Fostering Peace
Singh’s message to the global community was clear: education is a fundamental pillar in the construction of a peaceful society.
In his address, he emphasized that every child, regardless of background, deserves access to an education that not only imparts knowledge but also nurtures core values such as empathy, respect, and understanding.
According to Singh, these values are essential for creating a more harmonious world, particularly in regions plagued by conflict and division.
In an increasingly polarized world, Singh argued that education must serve as a unifying force. He called for educational systems worldwide to integrate curricula that promote peace, dialogue, and non-violence. Singh stated, “In a world increasingly divided by conflict, prioritizing education for peace is essential.”
His call to action was rooted in the belief that education is the most effective tool for preventing future conflicts and fostering a culture of tolerance.
Singh also pointed out the dire consequences of failing to instill these values in children from an early age. Without an education that promotes peace, young minds are more susceptible to radicalization and violence, which can perpetuate cycles of conflict for generations.
By teaching children the importance of mutual respect and non-violence, Singh argued, societies can break free from these cycles and move toward lasting peace.
Samgrah Kalyan Sansthan’s Efforts in Underserved Communities
As the leader of the Samgrah Kalyan Sansthan, a Rajasthan-based NGO, Singh has been at the forefront of efforts to promote peace through education in rural and underserved communities.
The NGO’s initiatives focus on teaching children values of dialogue, mutual respect, and non-violence, recognizing that these principles are essential for building peaceful societies.
Singh elaborated on the NGO’s mission to provide quality education to children who often lack access to adequate schooling.
He stressed that these children, many of whom live in regions affected by poverty and conflict, are most in need of an education that teaches them how to resolve disputes peacefully and empathize with others.
“Our efforts are aimed at ensuring that every child, regardless of their circumstances, has the opportunity to receive an education that promotes peace and understanding,” Singh said.
Samgrah Kalyan Sansthan’s work is a testament to the belief that education can serve as a powerful force for social change.
By equipping children with the tools to think critically, communicate effectively, and understand diverse perspectives, the NGO aims to empower the next generation to become leaders who prioritize peace and cooperation over conflict.
Singh’s vision for the future is one in which every child grows up with a deep understanding of the importance of tolerance and empathy, paving the way for a more peaceful world.
India’s Role in Advancing Education for Peace
Singh also took the opportunity to praise India’s efforts in advancing education as a means to combat child exploitation and build a more peaceful world.
He specifically highlighted the government’s Samagra Shiksha initiative, which aims to improve the quality of education at all levels and ensure that every child has access to schooling.
Singh commended the initiative for its focus on inclusivity, noting that it has been particularly successful in reaching children in marginalized and underserved communities.
In addition to government efforts, Singh acknowledged the work of Nobel laureate Kailash Satyarthi, whose tireless advocacy for children’s rights has brought global attention to the issue of child labor and exploitation.
Satyarthi’s work, Singh noted, has shown the world that education is not just a right but a powerful tool for breaking the cycle of exploitation and creating a more just society.
Singh called on the United Nations to take India’s example to heart and work toward integrating education for peace and tolerance into global educational systems.
He urged the international community to establish a universal standard that ensures every child, regardless of their nationality or circumstances, receives an education that upholds the values of empathy, respect, and non-violence.
“The time has come for the global community to recognize that education is not just about academic achievement, but about shaping individuals who can contribute to a more peaceful and tolerant world,” Singh concluded.
Hansraj Singh’s address to the UN Human Rights Council served as a powerful reminder of the crucial role that education plays in building a more peaceful and tolerant world. By emphasizing the importance of teaching empathy, respect, and understanding, particularly to children in underserved communities, Singh’s message resonated with leaders and policymakers around the world.
As conflicts continue to divide societies, Singh’s call to prioritize education for peace is more relevant than ever. His vision for a universal educational standard that integrates these values represents a bold step toward achieving lasting global peace.
Through the efforts of organizations like Samgrah Kalyan Sansthan and global initiatives such as Samagra Shiksha, the path to a more peaceful future becomes clearer—one where every child is empowered to be a force for positive change in their community and beyond.
