Conflict, Education and Peace in Nepal: Rebuilding Education for Peace and Development

Education is significantly impacted by growing inequalities, political movements, and violent extremism, which contribute to social and political instability. This volume examines the interactions between education and armed conflict in Nepal during the 'People's War' (1996–2006) from a global perspective, highlighting the contentious role of education in the emergence and expansion of conflict. It argues that education in Nepal played a complicit role in perpetuating structural inequalities, benefiting privileged social groups, and contributing to the rebellion. The author suggests that post-conflict reconstruction should adopt a conflict-sensitive approach to address educational inequity, social exclusion, and political hegemony. The volume offers valuable insights into post-conflict opportunities and challenges for educational reforms that promote inclusive democracy, social justice, and equitable development.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 240 pages
Publication date: 21 March 2024
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC

The growing disparities, political upheavals, and violent extremism across the globe have profound implications for social and political stability, including a significant role in education. Situated within this broader global context, this volume delves into the intricate interplay between education and armed conflict during the 'People's War' (1996-2006) in Nepal. Building upon theoretical frameworks that explore the multifaceted connections between education and conflict, Tejendra Pherali offers a critical examination of the contentious role of education in the emergence and escalation of conflict, as well as the devastating effects of violence on education. Pherali engages with sociological and political theories to analyze the genesis and expansion of armed rebellion, discussing its implications for peacebuilding and social transformation. He argues that education in Nepal played a complicit role in the conflict, primarily benefiting the traditionally privileged social groups and perpetuating the existing structural inequalities that were the primary drivers of the rebellion. Schools, caught in the midst of the conflict between the Maoists and the security forces, became crucial political spaces that facilitated critical education, providing intellectual strength to the violent rebellion.

Exploring education after the conflict, the author advocates for a 'conflict-sensitive approach' in addressing issues related to educational inequity, social exclusion, and the political dominance of privileged social groups. The volume provides invaluable insights into post-conflict opportunities and challenges for educational reforms that align with inclusive democracy, social justice, and equitable development.

Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781472988065