On International Peace Day, 21 September 2007, ACCORD, in collaboration with Unischool Durban (which provides short training in computer and business skills) contributed some of its surplus IT equipment to the Ekhaya Multi Arts Centre based in Kwa-Mashu, Durban. Unischool agreed to contribute free computer training.
The activity focused on the opportunities which the Centre provides to the local community of Kwa-Mashu, by providing skills and developing career possibilities in integrated arts and multimedia advancement skills for its youth. Youth are the future leaders who will govern Africa. It is imperative, says Vasu Gounden, the Founder and Executive Director of ACCORD, that “we try and bridge the digital divide in Africa and create an environment for the transfer of vital skills to equip our youth to be productive future leaders, positively developing and shaping our continent.”
In 2003 ACCORD awarded its Africa Peace Award to the children of Africa, with special emphasis on the children of the DRC.
The concept of the UN International Peace Day was originally created in 1981 but until 2001 there was no fixed day appointed to celebrate peace. In 2001, through Resolution 55/282, the UN proclaimed the 21st of September as International Peace Day. The aim is to raise global awareness of the importance of peace and conflict prevention in order to influence policy – makers, governments and international organizations around the world.
