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Peace Education in a Post-Conflict Society: The Case Study of Sierra Leone

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  • Yi Yu

    (Centre of Education Studies, The University of Warwick, Coventry CV4 7AL, UK
    Department of Education, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China)

  • Michael Wyness

    (Centre of Education Studies, The University of Warwick, Coventry CV4 7AL, UK)

Abstract

The end of the conflict in Sierra Leone between 1991 and 2002 provided an important context for exploring the role of peace education in restoring governance, rebuilding institutions, and promoting socio-economic development. Following the civil war, a variety of externally designed peace education programmes were introduced across the country. These included formal programmes integrated into the school curriculum and non-formal initiatives led by stakeholders. This study evaluated these programmes by examining their goals, implementation approaches, and effectiveness in fostering sustainable peace alongside development. The evaluation employed a social constructionist framework, recognising that understandings of peace and education are shaped by historical, social, and cultural factors. Data were gathered through the analysis of documentary sources and semi-structured online interviews with 12 key informants involved in peace education. The findings reveal important insights regarding both the potential of peace education as a developmental tool and its limitations in achieving lasting peace. Key lessons emphasise the critical role of local ownership, cultural relevance, and ongoing support for post-conflict educational interventions. These insights offer valuable guidance for enhancing future peacebuilding and reconstruction efforts in Sierra Leone and other similar post-conflict settings.

Suggested Citation

  • Yi Yu & Michael Wyness, 2025. "Peace Education in a Post-Conflict Society: The Case Study of Sierra Leone," Social Sciences, MDPI, vol. 14(9), pages 1-19, September.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jscscx:v:14:y:2025:i:9:p:541-:d:1745026
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    References listed on IDEAS

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