The U.S. Association for the University for Peace
Encyclopedia
The U.S. Association for the University for Peace (UPEACE/US) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization established to advance the United Nations mandated University for Peace
and the practice of education for peace in the United States.
. Students learn about conflict resolution and explore themes such as multiculturalism, diversity, mutual understanding and world citizenship.
University for Peace
The University for Peace was established in Costa Rica in 1980 "to provide humanity with an international institution of higher education for peace and with the aim of promoting among all human beings the spirit of understanding, tolerance and peaceful coexistence."At present, the UPEACE Costa...
and the practice of education for peace in the United States.
Programs
UPEACE/US maintains three key objectives: to educate and train for peace, to manage the Global Network for Upeacebuilders, and to support the strategic development of the UPEACE system.DCPEACE
UPEACE/US has partnered with educators, administration, and parents in the District of Columbia Public School system to design and implement a peace education and conflict prevention program for the 2008-2009 school year. The program is called DCPEACE and consists of educator trainings, curriculum enhancement, parent workshops, skills for understanding, and PeaceRooms.PeaceRooms
PeaceRooms is a virtual platform that allows students connect with partner schools from different countries for a year long collaboration. PeaceRooms also provides supplemental collaborative lesson plans based on a University for Peace-approved peace education methodology which is subsequently integrated into the regular curriculum. These lesson plans focus on core concepts of identity, intercultural sensitivity, and conflict resolutionConflict resolution
Conflict resolution is conceptualized as the methods and processes involved in facilitating the peaceful ending of some social conflict. Often, committed group members attempt to resolve group conflicts by actively communicating information about their conflicting motives or ideologies to the rest...
. Students learn about conflict resolution and explore themes such as multiculturalism, diversity, mutual understanding and world citizenship.
Support for the University for Peace
In collaboration with UPEACE, UPEACE/US works to recruit students, raise funds, bridge partnerships, support the UPEACE Africa program, and increase visibility for the university within the United States. By fostering relationships that advance the operations of the UPEACE system and securing resources that enhance the quality and depth of UPEACE program, their goal is to establish UPEACE as the worldwide leading institution in peace education.Achievements
- Creation of a scholarship program
- Development of a special projects fund
- Formation of a UPEACE merchandise program
- Launch of Upeacebuilders, the alumni network website
- Integration of peace education in D.C. public schools