As part of ICESCO’s Young Professionals Program, the Organization’s Human and Social Sciences Sector and the Department of Legal Affairs and International Standards organized a workshop to empower youth in peacebuilding through combating violent extremism. Held in Parakou, Benin, the workshop aimed to educate participants and equip them with the tools necessary to promote peace, tolerance, and coexistence within their communities, particularly in border areas.

In his opening address on Thursday 24 October 2024, Mr. Salimane Karimou, Minister of Nursery and Primary Education, represented by Mr. Diwano Afodagbi, Chief of Staff at the Ministry, highlighted the workshop’s importance in supporting Benin’s efforts to combat violent extremism, especially among youth. Dr. Paulette Okpécha-Gnanvi, Secretary-General of the National Commission for UNESCO and ICESCO in Benin, expressed her appreciation for the workshop and encouraged participating youth to contribute to peacebuilding.

ICESCO was represented by Mr. Ali Ndiaye, Head of the Peace Department in the Social and Human Sciences Sector, alongside young professionals Paul Kpakpanon, Raïssa Ramatoulaye Djassi, and Djifa Agbezoukin. Mr. Ndiaye presented ICESCO’s peace and security initiatives, and efforts to combat extremism, while Ms. Osnia Mannou Gbankoto, ICESCO Peace Ambassador, shared her experience in the Leadership Training in Peace and Security Program (LTIPS).

In parallel with the workshop, Mr. Salimane Karimou, Minister of Nursery and Primary Education, received ICESCO’s delegation.

During the meeting, he praised the cooperation between ICESCO and the Republic of Benin, and expressed appreciation for ICESCO’s initiatives and programs supporting education, science, and culture in his country. The Minister called for intensified collective efforts among Islamic countries to address economic challenges and high unemployment rates, which can drive youth towards violent extremism.