Peace Education: A Case Study of the Training Course to Promote a Peaceful Society

Abstract

Serious challenges for peacebuilding in Thailand have been preserving conflicts, especially long-standing conflicts that have not yet been resolved to achieve positive peace. This article presents a revised curriculum in peace education through the peaceful society training program (or the 4S training course). This program, organized by the King Prajadhipok’s Institute, brings the concept of conflict transformation to drive and certify peacebuilders whose established job positions include executives, senior university faculty members, and social activists. The objectives of the training program are to train the trainees to understand positive peace and peacebuilding skills in society correctly.   

        The concept of conflict transformation is the heart of the curriculum for promoting a peaceful society. The curriculum is critical because it is a problem-solving at the roots of the problems, emphasizing sustainable conflict resolution methods and the attitude to accept and value diversity in society. The curriculum adheres to peaceful procedures in consciousness and behavior by emphasizing creating a culture of peace that deepens the values to develop Thai society toward peace. The knowledge and experience gained from exchanging ideas with individual trainees from various sectors in the classroom and on field trips can be systematically analyzed to find ways to transform conflicts and create peace in society, especially in the southern border provinces. The curriculum also aims to facilitate conflict transformation in Thai politics. Additional features of this curriculum include the analysis of the body of knowledge of peace education abroad and the possible application for promoting a peaceful society in Thailand. Contributing to Thailand’s dimensions of security and reconciliation, the curriculum has certified twelve batches of peacebuilders focusing on enhancing peacebuilding skills and possessing empathetic leadership. The curriculum also focuses on appreciating peaceful coexistence with diverse people in a multicultural society. Moreover, the curriculum supports the peace process in violent conflict areas in Thailand.