GST 312: Peace and Conflict Resolution is a course designed to help students understand the nature, causes, and management of conflicts in society, particularly in multi-ethnic and developing societies such as Nigeria. The course explores the concepts of peace, conflict, and security, the major types and theories of conflict, and the strategies used to manage and resolve disputes peacefully.
The course begins by introducing the basic concepts of peace, conflict, and security, explaining how conflicts arise from differences in interests, values, beliefs, and competition for resources. It also examines the various types of conflict, including ethnic, religious, economic, and geo-political conflicts, which are common in many societies.
A major focus of the course is the theories of conflict, such as Structural Conflict Theory, Realist Theory of Conflict, and Frustration-Aggression Theory, which help explain why conflicts occur and how they escalate. Students also study the root causes of conflict and violence in Africa, including issues like indigene-settler disputes, boundary conflicts, political rivalry, economic inequality, and ethnic competition.
The course further analyzes real conflict situations in Nigeria, such as the Tiv-Jukun conflict, Zango-Kataf crisis, chieftaincy disputes, and land conflicts, in order to understand their causes, impacts, and possible solutions.
Another important component of the course is peace building and conflict management strategies. Students learn various approaches used to resolve conflicts, including dialogue, negotiation, mediation, arbitration, and collaboration, which are part of Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) mechanisms.
The course also examines the legal and institutional frameworks for peace and justice, including the Nigerian legal system, social justice principles, and the role of community policing in maintaining security.
In addition, the course discusses modern security challenges such as insurgency and terrorism, and explains how governments and international organizations respond to these threats.
A key part of the course highlights the role of international and regional organizations in peacekeeping and conflict resolution, including:
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The United Nations (UN)
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The African Union (AU)
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The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS)
These organizations play significant roles in peacekeeping missions, mediation, humanitarian assistance, and conflict prevention.
The course also examines the contributions of media, traditional institutions, community leaders, and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) in promoting peace, resolving disputes, and supporting communities during and after conflicts.
Finally, the course addresses post-conflict management, including issues related to refugees, internally displaced persons (IDPs), reconstruction, and reconciliation in societies affected by violence.
Overall, the course equips students with:
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Knowledge of conflict causes and dynamics
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Skills for peace building and conflict resolution
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Understanding of security challenges
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Awareness of the roles of institutions and organizations in maintaining peace
The ultimate goal of the course is to promote peaceful coexistence, social justice, and sustainable development in society.
- Teacher: Olayemi Ifatimehin