Whitaker Peace & Development Initiative

Peace begins with the skills to navigate conflict.

At WPDI, Conflict Resolution Education (CRE) is a foundational pillar of our mission. We believe that peace is not simply the absence of conflict, it is a skill that can be learned, practiced, and strengthened. By equipping individuals with the tools to resolve disagreements through dialogue, empathy, and mutual understanding, we help build more resilient communities from the ground up.

This week in Maridi, South Sudan, 20 teachers from selected schools are taking part in a five-day Conflict Resolution Education training, officially opened by the Deputy County Executive Director on behalf of the Commissioner.

Teachers play a critical role in shaping how young people respond to challenges, disagreements, and differences. Through this training, participants are strengthening practical skills to foster peaceful classrooms, encourage constructive dialogue, and help students develop healthy approaches to conflict that extend beyond school.
Now on day two of the training, participants have expressed their optimism for the opportunity, recognizing their role as agents of positive change within their schools and communities.

At WPDI, we know that lasting peace is built one conversation, one classroom, and one community at a time!