In observance of the 30th anniversary of the International Day of Reflection on the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi in Rwanda, the UN Information Centre in Nigeria, in collaboration with the Rwanda Embassy in Nigeria, facilitated an online classroom dialogue. The event brought together high school students from Premiere Academy Lugbe, Abuja in Nigeria, and Lycee High School, Kigali in Rwanda.
Hosted at Premiere Academy in Lugbe, Abuja, the online outreach welcomed His Excellency Mr. Christophe Bazivamo, the Ambassador of Rwanda in Nigeria, along with his diplomatic team. Representatives from the United Nations Information Centre in Nigeria, Ms. Bolanle Olumekor and Ms. Adeola Adedeji, also participated, serving as key facilitators.
During his address, Ambassador Bazivamo emphasized the imperative for students to oppose the pernicious forces of hate and intolerance, striving for a future marked by unity and peace. He urged students from both schools to embrace roles as ambassadors of peace and reconciliation within their communities.
The dialogue included a presentation on Rwanda’s history and the events leading to the genocide, delivered by students from Lycee High School, Kigali. Premiere Academy students engaged in thought-provoking discussions, highlighting the critical role of youth in confronting and combatting the ideologies of genocide and hatred. They emphasized the importance of taking proactive measures to promote peace and reconciliation.
To honor the victims of the genocide, a solemn candlelight session and a minute of silence were observed, underscoring the significance of remembrance and collective reflection on the tragic events of the past.
The online classroom dialogue served as a poignant reminder of the importance of education, dialogue, and collective action in fostering a world free from the scourge of genocide and intolerance. It reinforced the commitment of young people to championing peace and reconciliation in their communities and beyond.
