The Alternative to Violence Project (AVP) Basic and Advanced Training was held at Fesbeth Academy from 15th to 17th April 2026. The three-day workshop brought together participants from different backgrounds with a common goal of learning peaceful ways of resolving conflicts, strengthening relationships, and promoting unity within their communities.
AVP is a global peacebuilding program that promotes nonviolence and conflict resolution through practical skills and shared experiences. The workshop reminded participants that peace begins with individual actions and attitudes and that violence can also take the form of harmful words, emotional abuse, hatred, and actions that damage relationships.
The workshop was divided into two sections: the Basic Training and the Advanced Training. During the Basic Training, participants were introduced to the principles of nonviolence, communication, teamwork, trust-building, and self-awareness. They learned that many conflicts arise from misunderstandings, assumptions, and poor communication.
Teamwork and cooperation were major themes during the training. Participants appreciated different perspectives and learned that strong communities are built through unity, mutual respect, and collaboration.
Participants solving broken squares through teamwork.
The training also encouraged self-awareness and self-confidence. Participants reflected on their strengths, values, and potential to contribute positively to society through transforming power.
As the workshop progressed into the Advanced Training, discussions focused on anger management, empathy, leadership, and community transformation. The use of “I-messages” was highlighted as an effective tool for expressing feelings without creating conflict.
Empathy and compassion were central themes. Through storytelling and sharing sessions, participants learned the importance of understanding other people's experiences and emotions.
Leadership was another important topic. Participants learned that effective leadership is based on service, honesty, humility, and the ability to bring people together peacefully.
Issuing of AVP certificates
Several participants shared testimonies. One participant stated, “I have learned that conflict does not always require confrontation. Through communication and understanding, many problems can be solved peacefully.” Another shared, “The training helped me understand the importance of listening before reacting.” A youth participant added, “AVP has taught me that I can be a role model for others by promoting peace and unity instead of violence.”
As the training concluded on 17th April 2026, participants left with valuable knowledge, stronger relationships, and a renewed commitment to promoting peace and nonviolence. The AVP Basic and Advanced Training at Fesbeth Academy was a transformational journey that equipped participants with practical skills for building peaceful families, stronger communities, and a better society, therefore in the coming days more trainings should be planned and conducted to ensure that peace is restored in our communities.