South Asia Summit on Education for Peace at the United Nations Conference Centre (UNCC), Bangkok
The Sustainable Development Council (SDC), in collaboration with the Faculty of Social Administration, Thammasat University, successfully concluded the highly anticipated South Asia Summit on Education for Peace today at the United Nations Conference Centre (UNCC), Bangkok, Thailand. The summit brought together esteemed leaders, academics, policymakers, youth advocates, and representatives from 13 countries to deliberate on the transformative role of education in promoting peace, inclusion, and sustainable development.
The summit commenced with Mr. Gokulnath Mathiyazhagan, Secretary-General of the SDC, delivering a warm welcome address to all speakers, setting the tone for an impactful event. This was followed by an inspiring keynote address by Dr. Datchanamoorthy Ramu, Founder Chairman of SDC, who urged all participants to envision a world where peace becomes a reality through education that empowers individuals to live in harmony and embrace diversity.
The summit also featured high-profile speakers including H.E. Mr. Abderrahim Rahhaly, Ambassador of His Majesty the King of Morocco to the Kingdom of Thailand, who reaffirmed Morocco’s commitment to promoting peace and education both nationally and through collaborative efforts with Thailand. His Holiness Sriram Charana Aravinda Dasa, Director of Projects at ISKCON, highlighted the need for “backward integration of peace-building,” emphasizing that peace must begin at home to achieve harmony and justice in the world.
Additionally, Senior Colonel Pisan Amornratananuparp, Staff Officer to the Commanding General of the Armed Forces Security Center (Foreign Affairs), Thailand, underscored the importance of regional collaboration and promoting peaceful narratives on digital platforms. Assoc. Prof. Dr. Dumrong Adunyarittigun from Thammasat University called for integrating peace education into global curricula to foster a more inclusive and sustainable approach to learning. Dr. E. Khalieraaj, Director of the National Cyber Security Research Council, emphasized educating young people to navigate the digital world safely, responsibly, and ethically.
A compelling panel discussion titled “Education as a Pathway to Peace” was moderated by Dr. Mahesh Chougule, Assistant Professor of Social Policy and Development at Thammasat University. Panelists included prominent experts such as Dr. Kamaleswaran Jayarajah (SEAMEO Secretariat, University of Malaya), Dr. MST Umme Habiba Fahmina Karim (Institute of Human Rights and Peace Studies, Mahidol University), Assoc. Prof. Dr. Auschala Chalayonnavin (Dean, Faculty of Social Administration, Thammasat University), and Prof. Ajarn Kevin Cook (Lecturer, Faculty of Social Administration, Thammasat University).
The discussion emphasized the role of education in promoting peace-building by fostering critical thinking, cultural understanding, social inclusion, and ethical leadership. The panelists also highlighted the importance of developing policies that prioritize peace education and provide equitable learning opportunities for all.
The highlight of the summit was the presentation of the SDG Impact Award for Academics, recognizing outstanding contributions toward the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) through academic excellence, research, and leadership. This year’s distinguished recipients were:
- Prof. Dr. R. Mohana Krishnan
- Prof. Dr. J. Clement Sudhahar
- Mr. Panduranga Guptha
- Prof. Dr. J. Cynthia
- Dr. Ganesh K
- Prof. Ms. Prisana Kumchai
- Dr. Mahesh Chougule
Their remarkable efforts in promoting education for peace and sustainable development were applauded, highlighting their unwavering commitment to fostering positive change through academic leadership.
In his closing remarks, Dr. Datchanamoorthy Ramu, Founder Chairman of SDC, concluded the summit with a powerful message: “Education is the most powerful tool we have to build peace, bridge divides, and empower generations. Let us commit to making it accessible, inclusive, and transformative for every child, everywhere.”
The Sustainable Development Council extends its deepest appreciation to all participants, speakers, and partners who contributed to the success of this summit. The SDC remains committed to fostering education that promotes peace and development throughout South Asia and beyond.
