Achieving Interreligious Maturity Through Higher Institutions’ Interfaith Programmes for Dialogue, Peace and Social Cohesion

Saraki, Akeem Aderayo; Chikelue, Agatha G.

Achieving Interreligious Maturity Through Higher Institutions’ Interfaith Programmes for Dialogue, Peace and Social Cohesion

Date

2022-08-21

Authors

Saraki, Akeem Aderayo

Chikelue, Agatha G.

Publisher

International Journal of Applied Research and Technology (IJART)

Abstract

There is growing recognition of the role academic institutions can play in promoting conflict prevention, resolution, and social cohesion through research and knowledge-sharing collaborations with NGOs, individuals, and practitioners. As institutions of learning, universities are not only responsible for cognitive and analytical development but also for fostering interreligious dialogue, tolerance, and peacebuilding. Interfaith dialogue has been widely acknowledged as a tool for promoting understanding among religious communities, contributing to social stability and peaceful coexistence. This study explores the role of higher education in advancing interfaith dialogue, using Kwara State University (KWASU), Nigeria, as a case study. KWASU was established in 2009 with a vision to go beyond traditional academic functions by integrating community service and entrepreneurship into its core mission. The university has taken proactive steps to engage with its host community, recognizing the importance of religious and cultural harmony in fostering peace. Through its Directorate of Community Development, KWASU has facilitated interfaith dialogue programs that bring students, staff, and local community members together in meaningful conversations aimed at reducing religious tensions. By analyzing the impact of these programs, this study demonstrates how higher education institutions can serve as catalysts for peace through structured interfaith engagement. Findings suggest that universities can enhance social cohesion by fostering dialogue across religious divides and empowering students as peace ambassadors. The study advocates for broader adoption of interfaith programs within academic institutions, emphasizing their role in mitigating conflicts and strengthening societal harmony.