By: Binta Jaiteh
The Ahmadiyya Students Association over the weekend held its ninth annual peace-building symposium to promote peace, tolerance and social cohesion among young people.
The symposium brought together students, religious leaders and peace advocates to discuss the role of youth in fostering peaceful coexistence and national development.
Speaking at the event, former Executive Director of the Peace Ambassadors, Fabakary Kalleh, described youth engagement as essential to promoting human development and sustainable peace.
He says the active participation of young people in peace-building initiatives is fundamental; because peace is built on strong human relationships that promote social cohesion.
Kalleh notes that Gambians come from diverse cultural and ethnic backgrounds, stressing that such differences should serve as a source of unity rather than division.
“We need to understand the context of our society. It will pave the way for us to live in peace and harmony,” he said.
He described peace-building as a collective responsibility that required the participation of every patriotic citizen.
“To be an agent of peace, you should advocate for peace and encourage patience among young people and other stakeholders. Tribal sentiments can undermine peace,” he added.
The President of the Ahmadiyya Students Association, Suwaibu Jarju, commended stakeholders for their contributions to peace-building in The Gambia, saying peace remained essential for national development.
Also speaking at the symposium, Oustass Dawda Cham underscored the importance of peace in promoting mutual respect, understanding and tolerance among people of different backgrounds.
He urged citizens, particularly young people, to resolve disputes through dialogue rather than violence.
Cham concluded by encouraging young people to become ambassadors of peace by showing kindness, respecting others and promoting unity in their daily lives.