Kampala, Uganda - The Catholic Church has introduced peace education in its institutions, beginning with primary and secondary schools.
"Unless we mount concerted efforts to halt this wild fire of violence by practising justice, tolerance, forgiveness and reconciliation, we may slowly but steadily perish as individuals and as a nation," Msgr. John Kauta, the secretary general of the Catholic Commission for Justice and Peace in Uganda, warned.
Kauta urged leaders to promote peace for sustainable development.
In a speech read by Sr. Specioza Kabahuma, the commission's national executive secretary, at the launch of peace education guide books, Kauta emphasised the need to sensitise the youth about tolerance.
The function took place at Trinity College Nabbingo last week.
John Agaba, the acting commissioner secondary education, urged headteachers to ensure that the books are accessed by pupils and teachers.
Kotilda Kikomeko, the headmistress, said the idea of introducing peace education in schools was conceived in Dakar, Senegal, in August 2005.