Celebrating the Roles of Youths in and through Education towards Inclusive and Peaceful Societies

Busola Fagbenro, The Sapphires Development Initiative
Odunayo Ayoola, Olabisi Onabanjo University Teaching Hospital

This research investigates the pivotal role of youth in peacebuilding in Nigeria, focusing on novel educational methodologies. Surveying 150 individuals aged 15-29, the study found that 63.33% fell within the 19-24 age range, with females constituting 75.33% of respondents. Notably, 47.33% of participants actively participated in peacebuilding initiatives, predominantly as students. The study highlights the proactive engagement of young people in peacebuilding endeavors, particularly through educational channels in Nigeria. It emphasizes the critical role of youths in cultivating peaceful societies, advocating for the integration of peacebuilding education into formal learning frameworks, and tailoring interventions to address the specific needs of young people in South West Nigeria. By emphasizing the essential role of youth in fostering an inclusive and harmonious society, concerted efforts to empower and mobilize young individuals toward peacebuilding initiatives are justified. KEYWORDS: Youth, Peacebuilding, Innovation, Education, Perception.