Youths call for peace in schools, settlements

By PISAI GUMAR
LAE Scouts and Girl Guides urged for peace and harmony in city settlements and schools when observing World Peace Day last week.
Under the theme ‘“Sustainable development goals: building blocks for peace”, about 200 children from 16 scouting schools led by provincial scouts’ commissioner Bart Ipambonj and Lae district scouts and guides chairman Popen Sakale and teachers walked the city streets with banners and placards urging for peace.
Three police escort vehicles joined and proclaimed for an end to ethnic clashes in settlements and school fights. Ipambonj said ethnic clashes kept knocking off balance among families at home.
“Let’s talk peace, discipline and respect to one and all at homes, communities, schools and work places, ensure all citizens appreciate development in Lae city and work together to fulfill government aspirations,” Ipambonj said.
He said the procession symbolised the launching of peace walk in Lae, and Morobe Scouts and Girl Guides were the custodians of the event annually.
Ipambonj said that launching the peace walk also enabled scouts to help police and ward peace officers to conduct peace awareness in city settlements.
“However, it was unfortunate for children under six years old and students to appeal for peace under the scorching heat while the older population caused ethnic issues,” he said.
The scouting schools included Bugandi, Bumayong, Lae Secondary, St Patrick, St Martin, St Mary, Bowali, Taraka, Igam, Lanakapi, Butibam, Huonville, Milfordhaven, Markham Road, Salvation and St Mary’s Parish.
Sakale appealed to headmasters in city schools to ensure there was a scouting troop to enrich pupils’ ability and instill self-confidence.