AMAN Scholarship for Peace Studies and Conflict Transformation

Introduction
The School of Peace Studies and Conflict Transformation was conceived from the unique statement of the AMAN Assembly 2003,�At this point in history, when divisions and despair, intolerance and hatred, greed and consumerism, abject poverty and accumulation of power and wealth are so dominant, the search for an alternative paradigm for peace that is rooted in the diverse religions and cultures of Asia is of the utmost importance. Non - violence, simple life styles, unity in diversity, mutual respect and sharing of resources and just governance ought to be released from the scriptures and constitution and be practiced in day �to-day life as there is need for sustained and systematic efforts for peace".
There are many institutions and academies in Asia that teach warfare but there are very few institutions which offer courses on Peace Studies and Conflict Transformation. Launching this school is an expression of AMAN�s long term commitment for peace around the world.
Goal
To create a new generation of peace workers, peace defenders, and peace negotiators towards catalyzing positive changes in the community towards prevention of conflict and promotion and sustenance of peace in the multi-ethnic, multi-cultural Asia and beyond.
Objectives:
To develop a resource and knowledge base for young social workers, young Muslim intellectuals, community leaders and philanthropic organizations and institutions.
To offer courses on peace studies, research, methods of conflict transformation and negotiation skills.
To promote exchange and cooperative working relationships towards positive change in Muslim communities and increase tolerance towards other religions.
To improve community based peace education curriculum and offer training for trainers and provide support for such education.
To offer Fellowships to young scholars in research work in order to develop both their understanding about socio-cultural and political changes that are taking place in Asia and the links between Islam, modernity, globalization, and gender.
To co-host and co organize inter-faith peace missions, task forces, workshops, and seminars on peace studies and conflict resolution.
Program
Short course on Peace Studies and Conflict Transformation
Curriculum development and Trainers Training for community based peace education
Research Fellowship
Workshop Forum
Peace Studies and Conflict Transformation Course
Duration: Three weeksCourse Outline:
General orientation
Introduction to the School of Peace Studies and Conflict Transformation
Self introduction of the participants including their own work and major questions and expectations they have of the course.
Collective planning on conduction of the course, including the time frame and sharing of responsibility.
Core issues
Understanding Peace Studies
Participant�s own perceptions in defining peace: how does one envision peace? Can the people of various religions and nations work together to build peace?
Inner peace and outer peace and the inter-relationship between the two
Religious and cultural resources in achieving inner and outer peace
Introduction to meditation and practice, collective efforts in establishing peace
Understanding Conflict and its Changing Nature
Causes of conflict
Tools of analysis of conflict
Conflict prevention, negotiation, management and resolution
History and theories of non violent struggle
Healing historical memories and peace
Case studies (presentation of complexities of concrete conflicts) on Peace efforts: Kashmir, Mindanao; Philippines, Chittagong Hilltracts; Bangladesh, Northern Ireland,Chechnia, Bosnia, Aceh; Indonesia, Palestine, North Eastern Sri Lanka ,Southern Thailand, world wide war against Terrorism etc
The role of the UN in conflict resolution and human security.
Understanding Various Dimensions of Peace and Conflict
Economic development/globalization and Peace
Arms race and peoples security
Gender and peace
Ethnicity and peace
Governance and peace
Religion and violence and Religion and peace, how different religions define war and peace
Human rights and peace
The environment and peace
Peace Education and Peace Promotion
Concept and orientation of peace education
Developing peace education materials
Conducting peace education
Media and peace
Peace advocacy and peace promotion
Who can apply
NGO workers, Peace and Human Rights activists, youth leaders, researchers, young scholars and professionals.
How to apply
An application form is available here. Interested candidates may send their application along with two recommendation letters. Registration and Course Fee: US$ 200 Scholarships : A few scholarships are available to partially subsidize the cost of travel, food and accommodation. Course Schedule: 3-24 March 2008 Deadline for Application: November 30, 2007
Report 2005
For further information please contact :
Dr. Imtiyaz YusufDirectorSchool of Peace Studies and Conflict Transformation
1562/113 Soi 1/1Mooban PibulPracharaj RoadBang Sue, Bangkok10800 ThailandTel. (662) 913-0196 Fax. (662) 9130197Email : aman@arf-asia.org