International mediators Alison Haly of Australia and Suzanne Sherkin of Canada conducted a peacebuilding training session for vocational students at Sakata Technical College.
The training was held at Sakata Technical College in the area of Senior Chief Nkagula in Zomba District.
Sherkin, who is also the co-founder of the African Harmony Collective, said the organization organized the training to equip students with skills to promote peace and harmony whenever conflicts arise among themselves.
Haly and Sherkin trained the students in a range of mediation and conflict resolution skills, including active listening, effective communication, and asking constructive questions during mediation.
The two facilitators expressed confidence that the students would put the knowledge and skills they gained into practice.
“We want these students to become mediators whenever conflicts arise among them,” said Haly and Sherkin.
Speaking on behalf of the participants, Gift Mbewe said the training would be highly beneficial, as it had equipped him with practical skills to help resolve conflicts and promote peace between people during disagreements.
Meanwhile, the Principal of Sakata Technical College, Mike Chasonkhana, commended the African Harmony Collective for organizing the peacebuilding training.
Chasonkhana said the initiative would strengthen peaceful relationships among students, teachers, and members of the surrounding community.
