The Outreach, Extension, and Continuing Education unit of the Office of the Pro-Vice Chancellor of IUB hosted a peace seminar in collaboration with Heavenly Culture, World Peace, Restoration of Light (HWPL).
The event, titled “Bangladesh’s Pledge for Peace: A Future We Build Together,” was held on March 9, 2025.
The seminar focused on Bangladesh’s role in global peace efforts, emphasizing civic engagement, community-driven initiatives, and peace education.
It was organized as part of HWPL’s 9th Annual Commemoration of the Declaration of Peace and Cessation of War (DPCW).
Prof M Tamim, vice chancellor of IUB, delivered the opening address, underscoring the significance of grassroots movements in peacebuilding.
He cited South Korea’s Saemaul Undong initiative as a model for community-driven development.
A video message from Steve Kang, chief branch manager, HWPL Global 03 branch, reinforced the idea that peace requires collective responsibility.
Jaden Lee, general director, Department of International Law, HWPL Global 03 Branch, South Korea, highlighted the similarities between peace efforts in Bangladesh and Korea, advocating for structured community-based approaches.
A panel discussion on “The Necessity of Peace Implementation in Bangladesh” featured insights from academics and peace advocates.
Prof Dr Md Abdul Awal Khan from IUB’s Department of Law, discussed Bangladesh’s historical resilience and the importance of civic engagement, peace education, and interfaith dialogue in fostering a stable society.
He acknowledged HWPL’s global initiatives and Bangladesh’s contributions to United Nations (UN) peacekeeping missions.
Md Safayet Hossain, founder and Principal of Skylark Model School, elaborated on the DPCW’s 10 articles and 38 clauses, emphasizing their role in conflict prevention and ethical education.
Sadia Afrin, director of Bangladesh Youth Organization for Skill Development (BYOSD), addressed the economic and social impact of peace, advocating for interfaith programs, educational campaigns, and international collaborations.
Jesmin Akter, member of the International Women’s Peace Group (IWPG) and Director of Art Box Gallery, discussed peace initiatives through art, citing the International Loving-Peace Art Competition as an example of artistic engagement in global peace initiatives.
The seminar included a Q&A session, an HWPL membership presentation, and a peace survey, where participants affirmed their commitment to peace education and community-driven efforts. A Peace Performance concluded the event, with attendees holding posters bearing messages of unity under the slogan “WE ARE ONE, WE LOVE PEACE.”
Prof Dr Mohammad Nazmuzzaman Bhuian, dean of IUB’s School of Law, delivered the closing remarks, thanking all participants and urging continued collaboration in peace initiatives.
