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Introduction
The 1st North East School of Peace (NESOP) was successfully held from 20th to 22nd November 2024 at the Rural Resource Centre in Umran, Meghalaya. This event was organized by the North East India Christian Council (NEICC) Peace Centre in collaboration with the India Peace Centre, Nagpur. The programme brought together 47 participants from various NEICC units, along with special invitees. The event’s success was attributed to the excellent cooperation from the NEICC units.
Inaugural Session
The official inauguration took place on the evening of 20th November 2024, with Rev SR Dkhar, President of NEICC, delivered inaugural speech. Other prominent figures in attendance included Rev Dr Ramengliana, General Secretary of NEICC, Rev KP Masharing, Chairperson of the NEICC Peace Centre, and the resource persons.
Day 2: Thematic Sessions and Sharing
The second day began with a Biblical reflection by Rev Dr Ramengliana, General Secretary of NEICC, who underscored the prophetic role of peacebuilders in society. He encouraged participants to cultivate a holistic understanding of prophecy in everyday life.
The first technical session, led by Rev Dr BJ Syiemlieh of the United Christian Forum NEI, explored the concepts of peace, conflict resolution, and peacebuilding. He stressed the importance of positive peace, advocating for sustainable peacebuilding over superficial, negative peace.
Rev Prof Woba James from Eastern Theological College facilitated the second session on societal conflicts in the North East region, focusing on the transformative changes needed for effective peacebuilding. He emphasized the Churchโs crucial role as a mediator in fostering dialogue among the diverse ethnic groups in the region.
Fr. Stanilaus Chinliankhup, Rector of Oriens Theological Seminary, concluded the technical sessions with a focus on John Paul Laderachโs peacebuilding concepts, highlighting the role of spirituality, active silence, and an anthropological understanding of human purpose in peacebuilding training.
The day concluded with a Power Walk, led by Mr. Yash Dhamija, SOP Coordinator, followed by group discussions on the intersection of identities and the importance of empathy for spiritual peacebuilders.
Session on the Manipur Conflict
A special sharing programme was organized to provide participants from Manipur the opportunity to share their personal experiences. The heart-wrenching stories of survival in a conflict zone left a profound impact on the participants, emphasizing the urgent need for peaceful coexistence between different ethnicities in the region.
Day 3: Bible Study and Technical Sessions
Day 3 began with a challenging Bible Study by Rev Dr Ramengliana, who urged the Church to continue its prophetic role by embracing the way of the cross, which involves enduring pain and suffering in the pursuit of peace.
The first technical session, presented by Mr. Ben Vollmer from the India Peace Centre, focused on the critical issue of climate change. He proposed solutions such as renewable energy, electric mobility, and reforestation, encouraging participants to implement these changes within their localities.
Mr. Thangminlun Vaiphei facilitated the second session, exploring indigenous community peacebuilding methods in North East India, with a special focus on the Kuki community in Manipur. He stressed the significance of recognizing the institutions and customary laws within each ethnic group, which play a key role in resolving conflicts and preventing violence in the region.
Closing Session
The closing function was chaired by Rev I Khyriem, Treasurer of NEICC. Certificates of appreciation were presented to all participants and resource persons by Rev Dr B Lalnunzira, Administrative Secretary of the PCI General Assembly. A vote of thanks was delivered by Mr. Yash Dhamija and Dr. Zohmangihi on behalf of the India Peace Centre and NEICC Peace Centre.
The event concluded with a symbolic act of tying white ribbons around each otherโs hands, signifying a shared commitment to becoming peacemakers in their respective communities.
Conclusion
This three-day event provided a unique opportunity for participants to reflect on peacebuilding, share their experiences, and gain insights into the complex challenges facing the North East region. It underscored the importance of collaboration, empathy, and a strong commitment to peace in fostering sustainable solutions to conflicts in the region.
Dr. Zohmangaihi
Programme Coordinator
NEICC Peace Centre
