Intro
The Equator Peace Academy (EPA) is a summer school began in 2010 at Uganda Martyrs University and happens every two years. It is organised by CEDAR, an organisation founded in 2001 in Sarajevo. It engages in enabling people to appreciate differences and live with diversity in communities particularly those divided politically, socially and ethnically.
On Sunday the 8th of December 2019, INTERFACE was invited to the 5th EPA Summer School that was hosted by Nkozi University for 30 students from Africa, America, Asia and Europe.
One needs to be aware of when addressing cultural issues particularly with a view to support change
Discussion
INTERFACE facilitated a dialogue and discussion session on the issue of body language among communities where people do body markings which include or excluded people, an example being circumcision. These practices are mainly done for the purpose of initiating individuals into society so as to attain certain privileges; and consequently how not going through them often alienates some from reaching their maximum potential as useful members of society.
The conversation highlighted key issues that one needs to be aware of when addressing cultural issues particularly with a view to support change. The discussion highlighted the complexity of issues regarding practices like female circumcision; which include its cultural and social significance, the need to have empathy and be conscious of the language used etc. According to the course coordinator, the discussion was very important in framing the context for the Academy as they were going to visit the area of Sebei, Bukwo, Kwemi, Kapchorwa, and some parts of Kenya in Tranzoi.
INTERFACE hopes to strengthen its collaboration with EPA through joint activities. In the future.
