India and Africa United in Peace: A Message of Hope from Ambassador Rai

We were profoundly honored to host H.E. Ambassador Anil Kumar Rai at the International Day of Nonviolence webinar, a collaboration between CAFOR and the Ashoka Group of Schools!

Ambassador Rai delivered an inspiring address, underscoring that real power lies not in domination, but in moral courage and justice, following the path of global leaders like Nelson Mandela. He highlighted the crucial work of the UN system (UNESCO, UNICEF, UN Women) and the African Union’s Agenda 2063 and its Silencing the Gun program in fostering peace and protecting the vulnerable.

His core diplomatic message resonated with urgency:

“Building a culture of nonviolence is not the task of one organization or one day. It is a collective journey…”

He emphasized that by integrating nonviolence into the heart of education and everyday conduct, we directly address the root causes of violence: inequality, intolerance, and injustice. He championed the view that schools are the essential “lab for human values.”

Our Collective Call to Action & Pledge:

Let us renew our commitment and pledge that: “Every classroom will be a sanctuary of peace, every home a space for respect, and every nation a beacon of hope, so that the next generation inherits not the fear and violence, but the confidence and compassion.”

Thank you, Ambassador Rai, for your leadership and for emphasizing the power of education and diplomacy in creating a peaceful, inclusive world where no one is left behind. Jai Hind.

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