Students from various schools in Bor County of Jonglei State on Friday delivered powerful messages of peace and hope in commemoration of the International Peace Day.
The event, organized by the Jonglei State Ministry of Peace Building in collaboration with the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS), showcased the talents of the UNICEF young reporters, through dramas, poems and speeches.
Marlin Apiu from Saint Andrew High School passionately articulated her generation’s aspirations.
“When there is peace, there will be no violations of human rights such as forced marriage. Girls can participate in activities like I am today,” Apiu said.
Apiu urged the government to prioritize peace, emphasizing its critical role in allowing children to thrive and contribute to the nation’s development.
Jonglei Governor Majuob Biel Turuk, who was in attendance, praised the young reporters for their courage and dedication to peacebuilding.
“The future of our nation lies in the hands of these young people. Their commitment to peace is a source of hope for all of us. We must foster peace in our hearts to prosper together,” Turuk emphasized.
The head of the UNMISS in Bor, Geetha Pious, also addressed the audience, highlighting the crucial role young people played in fostering a culture of peace.
“Let us promote tolerance and dialogue. The transitional period is now extended for another two years. During this time, let us enhance the civic and political space so that everyone, especially the marginalized voices, can participate meaningfully,” Pious stated.
The International Day of Peace, observed globally on September 21, was established in 1981 by a unanimous UN resolution to encourage all humanity to commit to building a culture of peace.